A quality gore-tex lined leather boot will breath ok IF treated with water based waterproofing product (nikwax, grangers g-spray). I have used some zamberlan 960s for about a year and i think they are a solid boot they seem to breath well enough and a pretty waterproof with the water based applications i have been using.... Once the goretex liner starts leaking which it inevitably will ill just start using Obenaufs and seal up the boot for good.
I really liked those quest gtx boots super comfy and light.. wish they made them without the goretex liner though... I defiantly think they are too light to used for stomping around in snow for a week Imo.
There are plenty of options for boots just order a bunch of pairs from amazon or zappos with free return shipping.. id start at the lowa hunters, or the uninsulated tibets something that'll work for your narrow heel .
