I'd suggest finding some forums where construction workers, foundary workers, surveyors, park rangers, etc. hang out. They'll know what companies are making worthwhile boots right now and who is making shit. I can't remember how old my last pair of paratrooper boots are, but I want to say at least 7 years, probably more like a decade, and they're on their second or third pair of soles. They're corcorans. Currently 225ish, union made (I think) in PA.