off topic a lil bit but....
Anyone Tried out the Converse Desert Boots? Specifically the "Pursuit" models?
Back on topic, Combat boots provides the ankle support, overall foot protection, and traction, that most shoes do not. Hiking boots offer some of this but not to the extent that a REALLY good pair of hunting boots, or most medicore Combat boots will. And if you drop the bank for a REALLY good pair they can last YEARS even in full service with propper care, I have several pair of the old black leather issue boots that have lasted almost 9 years of HEAVY use, both in military service, Airsoftin, and even huning. But and here is the hard part, all equipment clothing included needs propper maintance to last, work propperly, and protect you.
BTW the Bellview, with Vibram soles, desert boots they are issueing us Army troops now are EXCELLENT. They are like a pair of sneakers when your moving all day long, but if your standing guard, or stuck on hard surfaces (ie Concrete)all day they do start to hurt after a while. The Summer wieght are great as they let your feet breath, but the Winters are gortex lined and thus you MUST air them out at least daily after wearing them in anything but COLD weather else you'll start having foot rot problems.