That's interesting... .I've had mine about 3 years now and treat them like redheaded stepchildren, they aren't even scratched yet. I have the 400 series glass lenses and the clarity and contrast is second to none. My fiance has the 580 lenses and I don't see any real difference. I actually like my 400's better. They have fallen off the 4 wheeler, been crushed by people sitting on them, kicked across a boat deck.. you name it. They are more for the fishing crowd but for that they are awesome, no glare. Also helps driving in fog or rain, guess that goes with any quality polarized lenses, but I can see about twice as far in fog with these things than without. With regards to warranty, everyone I've talked to said they either replaced the lenses/frames for free or charged a small fee if it wasn't due to a factory defect. Maybe your buddies got some fakes or a bad run or something, none of that is consistent with anything I've heard or experienced with them. The idea of the Lego construction is a good one.. less opportunity for parts to fail. Nothing against Oakleys. They make a great product and I've owned many. I don't think the OP can go wrong with any brands listed here. I like to fish and for that the Costas have the lenses and warranty I like. I didn't see them mentioned by others so I was curious to see how widespread they have become.