Your feet are your wheels. If they aren't comfortable and well protected, you aren't either. No matter what kind of boots you buy, you need good ankle support. Some good boots are made by One Sport, Vasque, Merrell, and Asolo. Many of us still swear by the traditional heavy leather hiking boots which give the best ankle support and general foot-protection from rough terrain and the elements.
Some people prefer lightweight hiking boots, made of a combination of nylon and leather.
While adequate for the backpacking we do, they definitely provide less ankle support than sturdy leather boots. Make sure that when you try your boots on with your beefy socks, you still have adequate toe room. Whatever boot you decide on, be sure they are well broken in, or else your feet will hurt . Laziness in breaking in boots can potentially ruin your FOP experience. You can count on having a few windy, rainy days with temperatures below freezing, and it will be cold every night.