Merrell Moab 3 8" Zip Military Leather Work Boots (Open Box)

Bought a pair for duty use and they were too small but fit my son ok, he is in EMT school so I gave them to him. The size runs about 1/2 size small. I bought second pair and discovered lace loops are plastic, not metal. No packing material or tags when received so they are believed to be used. One lace loop was either broken on arrival or I unknowingly broke it. The second loop broke when i was trying on. Never walked 1 step in this pair. My guess is the first pair wont last long. Clearly lace loops not suitable for actual use. It's unfortunate as I really like and want the boots otherwise however I will not be buying another pair and cannot recommend until loops get upgraded. The loops in the pics look like black finish is worn off and metal is showing... thats the lighting, zero minutes of wear and they are made of brittle plastic.