Sandals

Rainbow Sandals have mixed repairability potential with particular issues around delamination and sole replacement.

• •Parts availability: No official replacement parts sold, but their lifetime warranty covers delamination according to many users.
• •Common failure points: Many users note that newer models use EVA foam soles that wear out quickly, with one stating the pattern rubbed off in the first month of use. Older pairs used more durable rubber.
• •Repair difficulty: Several long-time owners report successful DIY fixes for delamination using strong adhesives. Users have attached new soles when the original wears out, though this requires some skill.

Bottom line: Moderate repairability with a significant downgrade in newer models. While older versions lasted 10-15+ years with minimal repairs, newer models appear to use lower-quality materials that are less repairable, particularly the EVA soles that can't be easily replaced.

Rainbow Sandals are a BIFL legend in transition. Older pairs prove these can be virtually indestructible, but recent quality shifts are creating a tale of two products.

• •Historic durability: Users report pairs lasting 10-20 years through hiking, deployments, and daily abuse. One reviewer says their 6-year-old pair is still going after being through the ringer.
• •Quality decline red flag: Multiple long-time customers report newer pairs delaminating within 1-2 years. The switch from rubber to soft EVA outsoles means the pattern rubs off in the first month of use.
• •Built to mold, not pamper: The legendary break-in hell month proves these are engineered for longevity over comfort. Once broken in, the leather forms a custom footbed that users describe as heavenly.

Bottom line: If you score an older USA-made pair or get lucky with current production, these are still BIFL gold. But with mounting evidence of cost-cutting measures, the community is split on whether modern Rainbows deserve their legendary status.

Rainbow Sandals offers a "lifetime of the sole" warranty on select models and a 6-month warranty on others, with a structured claim process requiring proof of purchase.

• •Coverage: The "Rainbow® Guarantee" covers manufacturing defects until the sole is worn through, primarily on Signature Series products.
• •Limitations: Normal wear, torn straps, water damage, burns, cuts, pet damage, and self-repairs are excluded. Exchanges for different styles/colors aren't permitted.
• •Process: Claims require completing a form and shipping sandals to headquarters with receipt. Denied claims incur a $7 return shipping fee.

Bottom line: Customer reviews confirm Rainbow consistently honors their warranty with many BIFL users reporting 5-15+ years of use, though some note recent quality concerns with newer models potentially affecting long-term durability.

Rainbow Sandals maintain strong community respect despite growing quality concerns. Long-time users proudly showcase pairs lasting 10-20 years, creating intense brand loyalty and BIFL credibility.

• •Legendary durability: Users report my last pair lasted over 6 years and they're still going and I bought these in 2009, 10 years and two deployments later I'm finally buying new ones
• •Quality decline concerns: Recent buyers complain the bottoms are no longer rubber, they're soft EVA that wears quickly and my latest pair is almost done in less than a year now
• •Painful break-in: Everyone warns about the hell month of blisters but says they become your best friends afterward

Bottom line: Redditors still recommend Rainbows for their proven track record, but newer pairs face skepticism about matching the legendary durability of older models.