Searching for foot-shaped shoes for rugged terrain

In the past I've posted this topic as a question, asking for suggestions. And it has become clear that I am far from alone! But, after years of trying various options, I decided to commit and in 2024 ordered 17 pairs of shoes to really seek some answers and figure out what works best for me.

Most of those 17 pairs were returned right away new in box (many were size duplicates), but over time I have tested at least 10 models of shoes to failure in the real world. I've kept meticulous notes on those, and also all the others I've returned/tried in store. Weights included, of course.

I finally got around to writing a summary post on my blog, with photos. Readers from this sub will be able to skip over the first half of the "shoes 101" content, although I have some unique takes in the socks and lacing sections.

TW: there are brands mentioned in the post that have certainly wronged foot-shaped shoe enthusiasts so some may not agree with this wording. If you agree Topo is foot-shaped this post will be very relevant, if you prefer barefoot shoes I have nothing to offer

TL;DR/Spoiler there is no perfect shoe, but I've found a few options that come close for certain use cases