I bought a pair of LL Bean boots a couple of years ago -- turned out that they were great if I was working in Antartica -- tough to put on, cumbersome boot liners, lots of eyelets, bulky to wear.  I really like LL Bean, but I these boots drive me nuts.

Enter the Timberland Pros.  Just as high as the Bean's, but they are lighter, just as water proof, easly to put on, really warm and comfortable. Moreover, the Bean's have lousy traction -- downright slippery.  With the Timberlands, you feel like you're glued to the ground -- very confidence inspiring. Both cost about the same.

If I had done my typical homework, I would have gone with the Timberlands the first time.  My last pair of Timberlands last 13 years -- I wore them in just about every condition and they held up like champs.  I expect this pair will easily go the distance.