I have had the salomons pictured (same green gortex) for a few months and I really like them. The lace takes a little time to get used to but I think I like it.

I know that salomon calls them a trail runner, but personally I would not ever run in them (and I am a runner). I like running shoes to be much lighter and less bulky. I look at them more as a general purpose outdoor type shoe ... i.e. I wear them to the gun range, some outdoor activities like hiking etc.

I think they will hold up much better than an ordinary sneaker. Not sure if they'll hold up as well as a boot. It's a good compromise IMO - fits like an athletic shoe, but has more support, better waterproofing with the gortex, and should hold up better.