I'm content if my shoe cost is under $10/month. You're just over a tenth that. It would be hard to get the number lower and still have reasonable comfort and protection from the shoes.

Am I reading correctly that nothing is wrong with them except the tread is worn down? See if there is a shoe repair shop near you. Cobblers can usually replace tread. That way you’re not falling whim to capitalism, keeping something out of the landfill, and you don’t have to break in a new pair.

Go and buy two pairs this time. Chances are that boot will no longer be made in 2 years let alone 4 in the same way you like. If they are comfortable and they lasted you that long with no issue those are good boots.

I'm a shoe cobbler as the username might suggest and most modern shoes have a lifespan of about 1-2 years depending so getting 4 with daily use is kinda nuts.

As for the heel kicking out I assume you mean the outer back of the heel is worn down more than the inside back yeah? In that case that's totally normal and its just because that's the first part that hits the ground when you take a step. If its uncomfortable then sure you can get something done about it but it generally shouldn't unless its really worn down, like so much that you'd be capturing rocks in the holes in your sole. Thats also a pretty easy job for a shoe repairman to fix that'll be cheaper than a new set in most cases

I wear combat boots made for first responders (Haix). They are about 3-4 times the cost of yours, but they are made in Europe. Anyway, I've had my oldest pair for over six years, and I put at least 10 miles on them on a day. The only upkeep they've needed so far is some conditioner. I have a ton of boots, but these are by far my favorites

I've worn them in the Arizona desert during summer, and in winter where I live (gets to -30F and colder)

My 1990s CF infantry boots - bought new - were used daily for 20 years, Calgary snow and Vancouver rain. Another 10 years of occasional use and another 10 years in the closet because of an injury. But it's getting fixed and I will be using them again.

Zipper? You and I have different footwear.

I've worn a couple pairs of those same Ryno boots. They're actually quite comfortable. I think I still have a pair. Mine last about 8 months or so

I had previously heard that shoes are made to last 100 miles. Running shoes, supposedly 200 to 300. My walking shoes last 8 months or so, but I easily walk 2-3 miles a working day.

I would say that those boots did a great job due you, and I would buy another pair if I was you.

I can barely get a pair of combat boots to last a year, except for my RATs, best damn boots to kick shit in. I always blow out the sides or crack the sole where the toes flex as the sole wears slick.

I wish they still made the RATs, I would buy two pairs.

4 years with heavy use is very good

I believe there is a trade off between grippiness and hardness. So depending what kind of surfaces you need to walk on, buying boots with soles that resist wear more may have a downside.

i have army surplus store Marine combat boots $20. IDK how much use they had before I got them, but it was a bit.

anyway i have had these boots for 6 years now. i do pretty much all my yard work un them.

I'd never pass inspection with them but I should be able to get another 5 years at least

Dumb question, but, are you in the military? (I’m not, and don’t know how these things work, but I’d like to learn)

Personally I wouldn't consider that very good. My pair of Haix Airpower P3's lasted me close to 15 years and I've put them through hell.

This reads like an advertisement.