DSW does not sell anything I would consider BIFL. They are basically an outlet and fast fashion

I'd look at brands here that are considered BIFL. I bought a pair of RedWings (gloria model) that, if treated well should last forever. I would not buy from Nordstrom Rack/Marshalls/DSW etc. you really need to research the brand and make sure they either have repair policies or a strong reputation for high quality

not to beat a dead horse with the the LL Bean boots, but I do know people who just put the ice spike/cleat caps over their winter boots when they really need traction - I've never needed it, but always possible

I haven't had issue - I'm not using them for hiking or acrobatics, but for shoveling snow, walking the dog etc, they've been fine - they also fit me perfectly, and feel like one smooth piece of material, in contract to other boots I've worn.

I also have the Sorel Joan of Arcadia, and I would encourage any one to try them on and walk around a bit, as I found them too heavy, and where the heavier bottom meets the shaft, tends to give me blisters right on the back of my ankle that no sock thickness can help. They are the warmest things I've ever put on though, so if I don't have to walk anywhere and am just sitting around a firepit, they are fantastic

I turned 40 this year, live in Massachusetts and still wear the LL Bean boots with the liner that I got in high school. There's a reason they get backordered every holiday season