They are the second pair of laces , I wear gaiters over them for a bit more protection Mr. Green. They have a little split just starting on the rubber protective band from the sole up to where it meets the leather, I try not to dry them out to quick, and use liquid paraffin for waterproofing, keeps them supple, I've not had wet socks yet unless going over the top of the boot with no gaiters on lol, granted these days I don't walk to many miles and go bashing through brambles etc, I wear my grubber wellies for that. Atb dc