I post suitably vague responses because I know it's all about your feet, your mass, your walking mechanics, and your optimized environment. A big guy destroys all but a few boots sidehilling. Walking down hill without a good heel, and arch support, jams your toes out the front. Wrecks your knees.
A light person might never even bend their sole. Their shoes sound like tap shoes on the rocks.
So, there isn't a perfect boot for everywhere and everyone.
I wear boots appropriate for the environment I expect to be in.
I typically destroy 3 pairs a year. But I wear them every day, wherever I am. And I rotate similar pairs on/off a dryer.
For many people, the synthetics with a medium density sole, and a molded foot bed seem to bring very good comfort and protection, as well as decent longevity. They aren't old school, but I don't see people treating blisters much anymore, nor complaining about foot ache at the end of the day either.
I only wear goretex lined boots in the sloppy parts of the year. They last much longer that way.
I have a pair of carbon fibre Doc Marten's that have been remarkably comfortable, and they don't pick up radiation.
