I'm working through the same kind of situation.
Current boots I have
Mucks: can't stand rubber boots and unless I'm hunting in a marsh all day won't wear them. Need something more comfortable
Cabelas Meindle Ultralights 800gr: Very comfort able a too bit flexible underfoot for tough terrain, on my 3rd pair and all have leaked in about a year with regular waterproofing treatment on the leather the stitching just doesn't hold up. Overall a good deer boot but can be a bit warm also don't like using both a tall boot and gaiters so its an either or with these. Need less with insulation and hopefully more water tight
Lowa: Older model, bombproof, heavy, never leaked a drop. Just too stiff to be comfortable all day, walking they are great but they feel very stiff and restrictive when sitting. Need something lighter
Columbia Hikers: Got these before last season a sub 3lb (pair) all leather boot, broke in decently quick comfort was ok, traction not bad. Leather was thin and got beat up fast, started leaking right at 100 miles of use. Need something tougher
what I want:
6" waterproof boot, Vibram outsole, locks the heal but room for the toes would like the boot to be about 3lbs to 3.5max. Synthetic or Leather boot but must have a rand or additional bumper protection will be used with gaiters most of the time.
Right now I'm trying to figure out my budget, do I want to go 300+ for Crispi or Zamberlan level hunting boots or shop deals on "hiking" boots like Asolo that regularly are on sale at places like Sierr@ and REI.
My wallet says to roll the dice on some Asolo boots half off on Sierr@ but Im afraid they will have the same leaking or durability issues I've already had but I do know if I want to pony up 300-400 for Crispi boots or the like just yet.
