I'd treat the exposed seams on any portage boot with some sort of epoxy/seam sealer, as I think the stitching is always a potential weak point.

Also most peoples feet are not the same size.
When you try on footwear, try both shoes on and do so with the sock/gaiter combo you plan on wearing with them.
Also remember that your feet swell throughout the day and that unlike leather boots, most synthetic fabrics won't "stretch" but tear instead.
You can lace to eliminate slightly oversize shoes,  but you can't lace to fix ones that are too small after your feel swell.

I really like those cord locks ( the military grade), but don't neglect how you lace them ;)

You can eliminate a lot of foot/shoe issues by finding a lacing system that addresses your particular issue.
This is one of the most comprehensive sites I've found and a little experimentation BEFORE you have problems on a trip is well worth your time.

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