I never owned a pair before, So i don't know the difference. I love these boots. Once broken in they are like a well worn glove.

I've been wearing my Italian pair for 20 years or more. I haven't seen the Chinese product and wouldn't buy them anyway. The Sorel brand has been ruined since bought out by Columbia Sports and now mfg'd in China. The good ol' days is right. So many good things gone.

By the way, re: my made in Italy Sundowners. I never had to "break them in" as everyone keeps saying about these Chinese boots. Also, note that I am still using my boots after 20 years, mostly recently snow shoeing at Crater Lake this winter. I had gaiters on and the boots stayed very dry, i.e., my socks and feet never got a bit wet.
I do also see the difference in the boots just by looking at the picture, as Mark L. noted. I prefer to go without until I can afford quality.

Opposite of T.M.'s comments, I too had a pair of the Italian made Sundowners which DID need breaking in...substantial breaking-in as they nearly defeated me in Emigrant Wilderness. This comment is to point out that the old and the new may not be too far apart, depending on your perspective. It's all subjective.

Is it possible to buy new sundowners made in Italy and where?