Wish this thread had appeared several months ago when I was shopping for boots. I made a drastic break from my 30 years preference for as close to seamless leather as possible. I bought Salewa Mountain Trainer GTX (I think that is the model) and have worn them for a lot of steep ground berry picking, day hikes and some winter predator calling. So far, the most comfortable boot I've ever worn. I'd wear them to weddings and the movies if comfort were the only factor. So far, waterproof, and much of their wear time has been in misty coastal rain and wet brush, with gaiters and sometimes rain pants. Very stiff sole good on steep talus etc. and I have worn them quite a bit with Katoola micro-spikes though not with crampons. They are a little stiff for a trail boot, about right for my ramblings off trail.
Second Ascent in Seattle is a good place to check for boots if you live close enough. New and used, usually at very good prices, close-outs etc.
