*I have to disagree about being a "bad apple", I purchased two pair in different colors and I've had the same issue with both. I am aware of the unconditional guarantee and that is helpful. However, I own a number of similar pants from other brands and these are the worst of the bunch. I do own other Badlands pants that are heavier material and I'll stand behind those any day but not this model.
You got a bad apple. These are the toughest and most comfortable pants I have worn yet. I have been wearing mine for work every week for about a year now. They are unchanged beyond some wear on the upper thigh section.