Thanks ST! My thoughts as well. I'm casting about for low-cost options to my wellies :). I have diving boots but they aren't rugged enough for portaging but great for hopping out next to the portage to unload. If I don't find anything else, I could always just revert to my high-top Merrells Moabs

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which I may just stick with for wet-footing it when I need to. They are great nearly 4-season hikers and dry out about as reasonably quick as any wet boot will I suppose....although I'm always open to trying something else. Thanks again for the feedback!