I have owned these boots for two years.  They haven't fallen apart, but they haven't been used for hiking, rather day-to-day wear.  They are NOT waterproof.  Walking through wet high grass is enough to soak your feet.  Stuck in the rain? Wet feet.  They are, however, comfortable.  Enough that I will buy another pair of Merrell boots.

Three stars only due to the lack of actually being waterproof, otherwise five stars.