Oddly enough, the most comfortable boots that I have worn were steel toe work boots with internal metatarsal arch guards. When I was working, I wore them ten hours a day 5 or 6 days a week with no discomfort. I still wear them nowadays when I feel like I need the protection. They were also Gore-Tex lined and very comfortable in wet, muddy conditions. The main reason that I don't wear them hiking is the weight.