Yeh I think overall, the conclusion ive come to is to get...
1. A comfy pair of boots - maybe not as durable, maybe not AS waterproof, but comfy for long distances
2. A pair of 'tough as old boots' boots, eg military boots - for particularly bad conditions, bushcraft, dog walking etc, maybe not so comfy, but proper tough and waterproof.
This will mean both boots last longer and you can probs get both for a reasonable price.
I have the british army haix high liability boots. They are generous in size, wide toebox and seem bloody tough. Still breaking them in really