I had foot issues for years, kept trying different boots $180-$240 which were fairly hi end 20-30 years ago. Never could find one that would not blister up my feet, but needed a good boot to hunt Rockies off trail. Finally about 6 years ago got some Kenetrek Mountain Extremes and worked on break in on treadmill daily.
One thing I learned that over the years my feet flatten out and I needed a 1/2 size larger boot than I did as a you guy. made a big difference.
I did not have any issues on my first two trips to the Rockies but those strips I did not have a tag, so helped set up tent camp and spot from the top, never really did much steep hiking. Last year got a tag in less steep area but did some off trail and lots of on trail and started getting the heal slip and blisters On day 4-5 and doing a lot of hiking. Think I will look into the insoles, not lace as tight, and socks. one thing that might be different is that I added high arch support for planters fasciitis, maybe that contributed. Thanks for the advice, will change it up this year. Will be settting up camp for the next few years until I get enough points to go draw a tag. Might be 67 before Inget my next draw, not sure how much off trail I’ll be able to do then. I got to visit the heart doctor next week, enjoy It while your young!