Winter Cycling - Problems with Lake Winter Riding Boots?

Has anyone riding Lake winter cycling boots had a problem with them? First off, let me say that I am a huge advocate of laying out the money for a pair of Lake boots for winter riding. They are extremely easy to get on and off, very comfortable and excellent in the cold. I love mine. That being said, my one-month old 2009 boots broke in half!!! The sole of the left boot cracked completely in half (from insole to outsole) just behind the base of the cleat. The only other issue I've heard of with Lake boots is a stitching problem with the 2008 model that was fixed this year. I'm guessing my problem was a complete fluke, though I like to think it has to do with my freakish power on the pedals (sadly I know this not to be true however). My LBS is truly amazing and has already ordered a new pair of the boots for me and will handle the warranty claim with Lake seperately so I don't have to deal with it. But, I'm just curious if anyone else has had problems with the boots, particularly when it comes to strength and durability?

I have read about the problems with 08s, stitching and something about those strapping systems breaking... but from what I hear most are happy with the shoes - though they are almost the only option out there so take those opinions with a grain of salt.

Now... if only I could cook up an excuse to buy a pair.

It was the 07s that had the stitching issues--and then only some of them. My right one did, the left never had a problem. The 08s were fine by all reports I saw.

And yes, the shoelaces break. True, they're plastic-coated steel cables you wind up like a toy mouse, but they're shoelaces nonetheless, and shoelaces break. It's always good to have extras on hand, just like you have extra tubes for your tires.

This sole cracking isn't something we've heard of before.