Buy it for Life BIFL brands can sometimes take a tumble when it comes to quality. Just because a company made excellent quality products once upon a time, this is not a guarantee that this will continue being the case. It is actually quite common to see successful companies move production to China and start using inferior production techniques and materials. Unfortunately for the consumer, they still think they are buying the old bullet prooft BIFL items. Well, we’ve gone ahead and called a spade a spade with our list of ten products that are not Buy It For Life Anymore. These once kings of quality products are now simply just consumer grade products that are no different from much cheaper alternatives. Below we will explain why each company isn’t BIFL anymore as well as recommend an alternative product that we still regard as Buy it for Life BIFL
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Doc Martens shoes and boots
Doc Martens used to make an excellent pair of boots Unfortunately they have shifted much of their production out of the UK to Asia. Also, their lifetime guarantee only applies to a small fraction of their shoes and boots now. You can probably still find some really good quality Doc Martens that are manufactured in the UK, but unfortunately these will be few and far between.
What to buy instead: We wholeheartedly recommend Red Wing boots as a great BIFL alternative to Doc Martens. These are truly durable and repairable boots that will last years and years.
Red Wing Heritage Men's Iron Ranger Work Boot, Copper Rough and Tough, 9.5 D US
Features
- Triple stitched quality; For light cleaning: Use warm water and a soft bristle brush to remove stuck-on dirt, then use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away any remaining excess dirt. For deep cleaning heavily soiled areas: Use a clean cloth or brush to apply Red Wing Shoes Leather Cleaner.Wipe the cleaner away with a damp cloth and allow the leather to dry.
- Features a bump toe for more room up-front
- Style No. 8085
- Vibram 430 Mini-lug outsole. A new pair of Red Wing Heritage boots should fit comfortably tight on your foot, with enough room to freely wiggle your toes
- Fit Tip-1/2 size smaller than their normal size. Hardware- Nickel Eyelets and Hooks. Outsole-Nitrile Cork.Steel shank
Pyrex dishware
Pyrex dishes used to be the best possible cook ware you could buy. But now that assertion just isn’t true anymore. You see, old Pyrex dishes used to be made of Borosilicate glass which is incredibly durable under hot temperatures. Now they have mostly switched to normal old soda-lime glass which is prone to cracking and even exploding in the oven. You still can find shatter-proof Pyrex but it is a bit complicated to ensure you are getting the best. Check this infographic out in order to make a good decision.
What to buy instead: Oxo actually makes a really great oven baking alternative to Pyrex.
OXO Good Grips Freezer-to-Oven Safe 3 Qt Glass Baking Dish with Lid, 9 x 13
13 used from $15.14
Features
- Strong, borosilicate glass construction for freezer to oven use Withstands extreme temperature changes without the risk of cracking or shattering
- Glass won’t stain or absorb odors and is easy to clean
- Generous handles on Dish provide a safe and secure grip
- Slosh-proof BPA-free lid prevents spills and allows stacking
- Convenient dimension markings ensure you’re baking with the right size
Coach bags and purses
Coach is synonymous with high quality purses and bags. But did you know that most of their stuff is totally not BIFL anymore? The quality of the leather and craftsmanship has gone way down. The easiest way to make sure you get a good Coach bag is to simply buy their older models. They do offer a few good ones still, but steer clear of any outlet mall Coach stores which sell essentially plastic crap.
What to buy instead: Get a used Coach bag from about 7-10 years ago or the one below which is pretty good quality still and is made in the USA.
Coach Womens Mini Sierra Satchel Handbag, Crossgrain Leather, Detachable Crossbody Strap (Mini, Black)
Features
- Inside multifunction pockets
- Zip closure, fabric lining
- Outside slip pocket
- Detachable strap with 21 1/2" for shoulder or crossbody wear
- 10 1/4" (L) x 7" (H) x 4" (W)
Timbuk2 bags
A sign of a company that has taken a dive in terms of quality is a bad warranty. That is totally the case with Timbuk2. They use pretty terrible quality fabric and stitching and owners consistently complain of bags failing within a year of owning them. Mostly we see issues with the seems coming loose. And unfortunately Timbuk2’s warranty is restrictive and not up to the task.
What to buy instead: If you’re into messenger bags, a great alternative is Chrome bags. Or check out Osprey for amazing quality bags of all kinds which still have their legendary awesome life time warranty.
Chrome BG-001-BKBK Black One Size Mini Metro Messenger Bag Chrome Buckle
Features
- Easy access side U-lock/water bottle pockets
- Waterproof welded main compartment
- Ergonomic shoulder strap design with EVA foam back panel for improved fit and breathability
- Sternum strap with quick release push plate buckle for load distribution
- Abrasion resistant 1050 denier nylon
Ray Ban sunglasses
Don’t even get us started on Ray Bans. Ever since they were bought out by Luxottica, their quality has been pretty much garbage. And the price is still so high!
What to buy instead: We recommend checking out Randolph Engineering sunglasses instead.
Randolph Men's Aviator 55mm Bright Chrome/Gray Gradient Nylon One Size
Features
- Size: 55 mm
- Hand-Inlaid, Premium Mazzucchelli Acetate
- The Strength Of Metal And The Comfort Of Acetate
- Jewelry-Quality Finish
- Anti-Reflective Coating For Eye Protection And Comfort
Keen shoes and boots
Another case of a shoe manufacturer riding on an old reputation for quality. Keen’s hiking boots and sandals simply aren’t built to last anymore. The soles on these shoes will be worn down within a year. Add to that that they really aren’t repairable and you have a very non-BIFL item.
What to buy instead: You can’t go wrong with Merrell Moabs which are still made to very high specs even though they are so popular.
Merrell Men's Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe, Granite, 10.5 M US
$75.39 in stock
Features
- M Select DRY seals out water and lets moisture escape so you stay dry when you're on the move
- Performance suede leather and mesh upper
- Bellows, closed-cell foam tongue keeps moisture and debris out
- Protective rubber toe cap
- Vibram TC5+ sole
Gerber knives and multitools
Gerber hasn’t made good knives or multitools for a long time. Sure, they have sponsorships with Bear Grilles, but they aren’t particularly well made or durable. Theu multitools frequently break and the steel used on most of their knives is soft and prone to breakage.
What to buy instead: Leatherman makes some absolutely amazing multitools and knives.
Leatherman - Wave Multitool, Stainless Steel with Leather Sheath
Features
- READY FOR ANYTHING: The Wave is hands down our most popular multitool. With larger knives, longer wire cutters, and all-locking blades, the redesigned Wave is perfect for any job, adventure, or everyday task.
- FIT MORE FUNCTIONALITY: The Wave is equipped with 17 tools, including knives, pliers, screwdrivers, a small bit driver for eyeglasses, wire cutters, a wire stripper, scissors, bottle and can openers, files, a saw, and a ruler.
- LET'S BE PRACTICAL: Sometimes you only have one hand to spare. The Wave only requires one hand to open and use all the tools, even the ones that aren't accessible from the outside. And with all-locking blades, you can cut with confidence.
- ALWAYS ON HAND: With its compact size and lightweight design, you can stash your Wave in your pocket and always have it when you need it.
- GUARANTEED: Our 25-year limited warranty ensures that your Leatherman will give you many years of dependable service. Just send it in and we'll fix it up. All Leatherman multitools are made and repaired right here in the USA.
Maytag washers and dryers
Once upon a time you couldn’t get a better washer and dryer than a Maytag. No more! Their failure rate has ballooned to the point where we can’t recommend them anymore.
What to buy instead: Check out Speed Queen for washers and dryers that have just the necessities and can be fixed easily.
Speed Queen TR5000WN 26 Inch Top Load Washer with 3.2 cu. ft. Capacity Stainless Steel Wash Tub, White
Features
- Time Remaining Display eliminates guesswork by clearly showing when your laundry will be finished.
- Full Tub Wash & Rinse fills the entire tub with water to achieve maximum cleanliness.
- 210 Agitation with 68 strokes per minute provides a better clean that's gentle on your clothes.
- Durable Stainless Steel Tub is gentler on your clothes and ensures long-lasting, dependable performance.
- No Lid Lock lets you open the lid to stop a cycle at any time.
Sony products of any kind
Remember when Sony was the highest quality electronics brand in the world. People would swear by Japanese built stuff and Sony rode that reputation for decades. However, now Sony make just as much high volume garbage as anyone.
What to buy instead: For TV’s we actually highly recommend LG’s OLED line. Sony’s high end stuff is actually still good, but not at the price they are asking.
LG Electronics OLED65E8PUA 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart OLED TV (2018 Model)
Features
- LG OLED TV with AI (Artificial Intelligence) ThinQ has the Google Assistant built in, so you can control compatible smart home devices using just your voice through the LG Magic Remote. Create a center for your smart home and beyond. Plus it works with Amazon Alexa devices (sold separately)
- The α9 Intelligent Processor inside the LG OLED TV with AI ThinQ is the most powerful ever from LG. Developed exclusively for LG OLED TV, the new α9 processor noticeably enhances sharpness and depth while delivering vastly more accurate colors, for the ultimate in picture quality
- Pixel Level Dimming enables each of the 8.3 million individually lit pixels of the LG OLED TV with AI ThinQ to brighten, dim or power off completely, achieving perfect black and displaying a level of picture detail impossible with any other television technology
- 4K Cinema HDR on LG OLED TV with AI ThinQ features comprehensive support of major high dynamic range formats including Dolby Vision, as well as HDR10 and HLG, both with LG’s advanced tone-mapping technology that provides scene-by-scene optimization
- Dolby Atmos is the same audio technology developed for state-of-the-art cinemas, with immersive sound that appears to come from everywhere, putting you in the middle of all the excitement
Samsonite luggage
Samsonite is probably the most recognizable brand in luggage. Unfortunately it is simply not good. They cheap out on everything from zippers to roller wheels and fabric. And their warranty is just meh.
What to buy instead: Briggs and Riley’s luggage is amazing and has one of the best warranties of any product on earth right now.
Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On Exp Spinner, Black, One Size
1 used from $605.68
Features
- Expandable Luggage: This swivel wheeled bag expands 2.5 inches for up to 25% more packing space. Cinch-down mesh garment panels keep contents from shifting and minimize wrinkling, Outsider handle provides greater interior capacity. Free TSA lock included
- Durable Construction: Made with ballistic nylon outer fabric that resists wear, moisture, dirt and abrasion. A lockable double zipper pull keeps contents secure and SpeedThru pocket allows quick access to travel items at security checkpoints
- Lifetime Guarantee: We're the only luggage company that offers an unconditional lifetime guarantee. If your bag is ever broken or damaged, we'll repair it free of charge, no proof of purchase needed, no questions asked
- Explore Our Collection: We make a wide array of durable luggage including carry ons, duffels, rolling garment bags and hardside spinners, plus backpacks, briefcases, crossbody sling bags and much more
- Engineered for Reality: We craft luggage for real world needs to make travel easier, with innovative handles, pockets, wheels and expansion systems for high functionality and more storage space
Consider buying these BIFL products instead (they’ll last)
Here is a list of all of the products that we can safely say are BIFL:
Red Wing Heritage Men's Iron Ranger Work Boot, Copper Rough and Tough, 9.5 D US
Features
- Triple stitched quality; For light cleaning: Use warm water and a soft bristle brush to remove stuck-on dirt, then use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away any remaining excess dirt. For deep cleaning heavily soiled areas: Use a clean cloth or brush to apply Red Wing Shoes Leather Cleaner.Wipe the cleaner away with a damp cloth and allow the leather to dry.
- Features a bump toe for more room up-front
- Style No. 8085
- Vibram 430 Mini-lug outsole. A new pair of Red Wing Heritage boots should fit comfortably tight on your foot, with enough room to freely wiggle your toes
- Fit Tip-1/2 size smaller than their normal size. Hardware- Nickel Eyelets and Hooks. Outsole-Nitrile Cork.Steel shank
OXO Good Grips Freezer-to-Oven Safe 3 Qt Glass Baking Dish with Lid, 9 x 13
13 used from $15.14
Features
- Strong, borosilicate glass construction for freezer to oven use Withstands extreme temperature changes without the risk of cracking or shattering
- Glass won’t stain or absorb odors and is easy to clean
- Generous handles on Dish provide a safe and secure grip
- Slosh-proof BPA-free lid prevents spills and allows stacking
- Convenient dimension markings ensure you’re baking with the right size
Coach Womens Mini Sierra Satchel Handbag, Crossgrain Leather, Detachable Crossbody Strap (Mini, Black)
Features
- Inside multifunction pockets
- Zip closure, fabric lining
- Outside slip pocket
- Detachable strap with 21 1/2" for shoulder or crossbody wear
- 10 1/4" (L) x 7" (H) x 4" (W)
Chrome BG-001-BKBK Black One Size Mini Metro Messenger Bag Chrome Buckle
Features
- Easy access side U-lock/water bottle pockets
- Waterproof welded main compartment
- Ergonomic shoulder strap design with EVA foam back panel for improved fit and breathability
- Sternum strap with quick release push plate buckle for load distribution
- Abrasion resistant 1050 denier nylon
Randolph Men's Aviator 55mm Bright Chrome/Gray Gradient Nylon One Size
Features
- Size: 55 mm
- Hand-Inlaid, Premium Mazzucchelli Acetate
- The Strength Of Metal And The Comfort Of Acetate
- Jewelry-Quality Finish
- Anti-Reflective Coating For Eye Protection And Comfort
Merrell Men's Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe, Granite, 10.5 M US
$75.39 in stock
Features
- M Select DRY seals out water and lets moisture escape so you stay dry when you're on the move
- Performance suede leather and mesh upper
- Bellows, closed-cell foam tongue keeps moisture and debris out
- Protective rubber toe cap
- Vibram TC5+ sole
Leatherman - Wave Multitool, Stainless Steel with Leather Sheath
Features
- READY FOR ANYTHING: The Wave is hands down our most popular multitool. With larger knives, longer wire cutters, and all-locking blades, the redesigned Wave is perfect for any job, adventure, or everyday task.
- FIT MORE FUNCTIONALITY: The Wave is equipped with 17 tools, including knives, pliers, screwdrivers, a small bit driver for eyeglasses, wire cutters, a wire stripper, scissors, bottle and can openers, files, a saw, and a ruler.
- LET'S BE PRACTICAL: Sometimes you only have one hand to spare. The Wave only requires one hand to open and use all the tools, even the ones that aren't accessible from the outside. And with all-locking blades, you can cut with confidence.
- ALWAYS ON HAND: With its compact size and lightweight design, you can stash your Wave in your pocket and always have it when you need it.
- GUARANTEED: Our 25-year limited warranty ensures that your Leatherman will give you many years of dependable service. Just send it in and we'll fix it up. All Leatherman multitools are made and repaired right here in the USA.
Speed Queen TR5000WN 26 Inch Top Load Washer with 3.2 cu. ft. Capacity Stainless Steel Wash Tub, White
Features
- Time Remaining Display eliminates guesswork by clearly showing when your laundry will be finished.
- Full Tub Wash & Rinse fills the entire tub with water to achieve maximum cleanliness.
- 210 Agitation with 68 strokes per minute provides a better clean that's gentle on your clothes.
- Durable Stainless Steel Tub is gentler on your clothes and ensures long-lasting, dependable performance.
- No Lid Lock lets you open the lid to stop a cycle at any time.
LG Electronics OLED65E8PUA 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart OLED TV (2018 Model)
Features
- LG OLED TV with AI (Artificial Intelligence) ThinQ has the Google Assistant built in, so you can control compatible smart home devices using just your voice through the LG Magic Remote. Create a center for your smart home and beyond. Plus it works with Amazon Alexa devices (sold separately)
- The α9 Intelligent Processor inside the LG OLED TV with AI ThinQ is the most powerful ever from LG. Developed exclusively for LG OLED TV, the new α9 processor noticeably enhances sharpness and depth while delivering vastly more accurate colors, for the ultimate in picture quality
- Pixel Level Dimming enables each of the 8.3 million individually lit pixels of the LG OLED TV with AI ThinQ to brighten, dim or power off completely, achieving perfect black and displaying a level of picture detail impossible with any other television technology
- 4K Cinema HDR on LG OLED TV with AI ThinQ features comprehensive support of major high dynamic range formats including Dolby Vision, as well as HDR10 and HLG, both with LG’s advanced tone-mapping technology that provides scene-by-scene optimization
- Dolby Atmos is the same audio technology developed for state-of-the-art cinemas, with immersive sound that appears to come from everywhere, putting you in the middle of all the excitement
Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On Exp Spinner, Black, One Size
1 used from $605.68
Features
- Expandable Luggage: This swivel wheeled bag expands 2.5 inches for up to 25% more packing space. Cinch-down mesh garment panels keep contents from shifting and minimize wrinkling, Outsider handle provides greater interior capacity. Free TSA lock included
- Durable Construction: Made with ballistic nylon outer fabric that resists wear, moisture, dirt and abrasion. A lockable double zipper pull keeps contents secure and SpeedThru pocket allows quick access to travel items at security checkpoints
- Lifetime Guarantee: We're the only luggage company that offers an unconditional lifetime guarantee. If your bag is ever broken or damaged, we'll repair it free of charge, no proof of purchase needed, no questions asked
- Explore Our Collection: We make a wide array of durable luggage including carry ons, duffels, rolling garment bags and hardside spinners, plus backpacks, briefcases, crossbody sling bags and much more
- Engineered for Reality: We craft luggage for real world needs to make travel easier, with innovative handles, pockets, wheels and expansion systems for high functionality and more storage space
Another good option to buy as opposed to Dr. Martens is Solovair. They manufactured Dr. Martens boots in the UK until 1995. They still hand make all their boots in Wollaston, Northamptonshire in the UK.
Thanks Greg! These do sound like a good option for those looking for a good pair of boots.