I'll second everything BZH said about Merrells. I measure a 10.5 too, but I also buy size 11 Merrells.

I've heard from several people that Keen makes a decent mid-top hiking boot and that they have a bigger toe box than Merrells. I've never tried them on, so I can't speak with experience, but I've been wearing Merrells for several years now and I do like them.

I sympathize with you, I have to try on shoes before buying them and it sucks to have to drive a long way for that because no local stores carry what you want and need. More than once I've made the drive and can back empty handed (bare footed?) because I didn't find anything that fit right. My experience is such that I just wouldn't buy shoes online.

I did hear of an online shoe store that doesn't charge shipping, has a no questions asked return policy, and will even pay for return shipping too. I can't remember the name right now though. If it comes to me I'll let you know.