We recently issued Haix to everyone. Their choice of an 8” boot, 6” boot, or the athletic shoe. After having worn boots for the last 15 years I decided to go with the shoes this time. I’m hoping they break in as they’re a little tight even for having gotten a wide size, but they seem very well constructed, are durable, and hold up well.
They don’t have laces, just quick adjust elastic ones but they are very easy to slip on and off in a hurry. Overall I’m happy with going with them over a boot, if you don’t have wide feet I bet they’d be great.