RE: Boot help
I've owned a couple pairs of leather boots made by LaCrosse and they have fallen apart on me prematurely (sole and cracking below the laces).
I am using a pair of Cabelas Outfitter series boots now and really could not be happier.
Remember, it is so important to keep your leather healthy or it will go bad fast. Currently using a product developed for Idaho firefighters and sold by Cabelas.