Tried a few methods of finding leaks, the flashlight was the best. But it seems once they start going it accelerates. After repairing my old Simms last year over and over I got tired of wet feet. Did get 5 years out of them. Have had 3 pairs of Simms, good waders but getting rather pricey for the name. Needed a new pair this spring and darn happy with my new Redingtons Sonic-Pro's. Time will tell but they have been great.