I just inherited a pair of Koflach "Para" mountaineering boots. (
image). Not sure that I actually need them, but they seem wonderfully built for ... whatever it is they are good for. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />
They have two different layers. First you tie on the liner, which is VERY thick, firm and cushy. Then you slip into the shell, which is all a solid piece of plastic and absolutely waterproof. They feel kind of like a ultralight pair of ski boots. The shank is basically a steel bar, you can easily stand on toe. And the boot really wants you to keep your knees bent.
Never had anything like this. Apparently they are aimed at ice climbing.