I’d like a place where warranties aren’t a factor when discussing BIFL items. I know that some feel otherwise but for me the appeal of BIFL is NOT frugality (though it often overlaps) but rather in owning high quality, long lasting, repairable items. It also has an aspect of sustainability as I hope to only buy one of something and not have to consume multiples of the same thing when I replace them with a warranty. Also worth noting is that warranties are only good as long as the company issuing them still exists and honors them but high quality things will continue to work.
Anyway, excited to see this community here but I’d like a rule against warranties being considered when assessing if something is BIFL.
I would not have thought lifetime warranty even existed on clothing. First time I have heard about it. Agreed that it mayl be abused.
Tools are in a different position, where the company rep can usually spot signs of abuse easily and then rhey will probably refuse warranty. It also helps if you are a frequent customer and is known by the store staff.
Usually it’s phrased as a warranty against defects in workmanship. I had American Giant replace a hoodie where one of the seams started to come unstitched, but I infer that they wouldn’t have covered it if it were due to regular wear and tear. (also pretty sure they moved away from lifetime warrantis too)