I use different footwear depending on where I’m going, and I’ve got different durability/waterproofing expectations from each.
First off, I’ve got a proper pair of “big boots”, some Scarpa R-Evo Pros which are stiff and heavy, will take a C1 Crampon, and are generally pretty robust. These will keep water out all day in the most rotten conditions, especially on snowy/slushy winter days. I’ve had these for about seven or eight years now and they’re brilliant, but they’re not the most comfortable thing to kick about in all day. If I was heading out into some “proper mountains”, these would be my go-to every time.
My most-used option are a pair of light boots, a pair of Inov-8 Roclite 345s. These were waterproof when they were new about three years ago, but they’re now pretty knackered with holes in the uppers and I’m just about to throw them in the bin. They’re basically a pair of hill running shoes with a goretex liner and a bit of extra ankle support. I’ve found that with these more flexible boots, the goretex liner gets worn out much faster, and I wouldn’t usually expect more than a couple of years from a pair. I also wear these far more often than the big Scarpas, basically using them for most summer hills, anywhere that I know there’s a path, and also using them for some big long hikes (I did the West Highland Way in them last year), and general weekend strolls in the countryside etc.
Third option is usually a pair of trail running shoes. These have absolutely no waterproofing at all, which seems disconcerting at first, but you soon realise that this can actually be beneficial, because although the water gets in easily, they also drain and dry really quickly too. The key is just to keep a pair of merino socks underneath them, as merino stays fairly warm and comfortable even when totally soaked (people saying they don’t stink are lying though). I usually replace trail runners by distance, so would typically get about six months to a year from a pair. Most brands are pretty comparable, but Salomons are particularly rubbish on wet rock in my experience.
Jackets and trousers: I’ve learned from experience that basically the only thing that works is spending money on good quality gear. Again, I have a big robust set of Rab eVent trousers and a Mountain Equipment Gore Tex Jacket that serve me well when conditions are stinking, and a lighter pair of Mountain Equipment GTX Paclite Trousers, and a Rab GTX Paclite jacket if I’m running or heading out in better weather. Mountain Equipment and Rab seem to do stuff that’s really good value for money, where some other brands like Patagucci, Marmot and Arcteryx can have a wee bit of a fashion tax added on. North Face are a bit guilty of this too, but you can often pick up “last year’s” colours at mega discount and/or in the outlet shop.
I suppose what I am saying is enjoy the wonderful gear available now, but don’t wander into gear freak territory, the gear is a tool, nice to have but not really essential, being out there is the essential, if you suffer a bit they say it builds character - or a thirst!