>>2515932cons of PU are that it is not as durable as a rubber/eva specifically for an outsole. I have PU outsole boots and never had an issue albeit I don't go around stepping on nails. Sievi also has a version with a steel plate under foot to stop something like that.
Also polyurethane needs to be used regularly or it will be subject to hydrolysis where it will break down if not used once a week to once a month. I see so many people that buy PU boots for that 3 times a year it drizzles outside only to find the foam crumbling because they haven't worn it in 12 months to years.
PU also costs around $100. While I prefer polyurethane for leather boot soles/midsoles, EVA is better implemented for boots from what I have seen.
>Neoprene lined boots.Not my favorite, but seems to be the most popular. First area where things can get expensive going into $150+ dollars. The neoprene generally isn't removable and generally a part of the boot's exterior; therefore, the first part of the boot you see torn time and time again is the neoprene at the calf. One thing these boots do better than others is: 1) give an all in one solution (insulation, durable sole, grip, cushion) and 2) give a little more support around the ankle since most rubber boots give zero. It isn't a ton, but more noticeable in my experience. With some rubber boots it feels like you need to visit krogers and buy ankle braces to have any leg support which some rubber boots are wide enough to allow many layers of liners, socks, braces, insoles, etc..
I see a lot of quality control issues with rubber splitting. Not sure why exactly. I saw one guy say they use clay in the rubber. No rubber boot is 100% rubber and rubber does need to be treated. People don't understand that urine and shit left on will wear the rubber down and cause it to crack, but I think a lot of these options use much less rubber than competition. Only brand here i've consistently heard good things of is dryshod.
4 pounds average
