Still using my H5’s (although, they have become a back-up pair to the Vion). Still useable and ready to roll, in situations where I don’t need great foot / ankle support. The interchangeable soles work very well, even between models (of the same size). The Vion are twice the boot the H5 are. The only real damage to report of the H5’s is dry rot of the plastic / rubber toe cap material. The uppers have become limp and non-supportive. Heck they’re going on 6 years old! However, If you can get a pair of the Vion, grab them. Great boots. I’ll post some photos, if you need to see them. Let me know.
FWIW: I have two pairs of the H4 waders & they’ve been fantastic when used in rotation over the past 6 years or-so. The only damage was from a stray piece of barbed wire I encountered on a nameless creek in Utah. They fit well, are durable, waterproof and comfortable. What more could I want?
I must add: I spoke to a rep from Pure Fishing & he had no idea what they were planning with the Hodgman boots or waders…. The H5’s and Vion are definitely discontinued and becoming impossible to find. If you can grab a pair (and extra interchangeable soles) do so. If you find some, please let me know where, as I’ll definitely get some extras - as I hate the thought of moving to something else. Long term, you might be better-off with Patagonia, Orvis or Simms. They may not be better or last longer but, they’ll always be in business and will stand behind their products. I can’t say the same about Pure Fishing products (unfortunately).
When my H4’s / H5’s / Vions finally bite the dust, I suppose I’ll have to move onto the others mentioned (but, I’m not looking forward to it).
Good luck with it!
-Wallace