I recommend NOT getting boots from Academy/Sports Authority, etc. Not unless you've got a lot of experience buying them and know what you need. I suggest you look at BOTH Backwoods on the brick section of Camp Bowie in Ft. Worth and Mountain Sports on Spur 303 in Arlington (near Fielder Rd). These places carry a good selection of boots, but most importantly have staff who hike, have tried lots of boots themselves, and can help you get fitted right.
I think Vasque and Asolo are the best names in hiking boots, and you could hardly go wrong with a pair from them. But there are plenty of other good brands and what really matters is that they fit and are comfortable. The best boots go for about $200, but I'm seeing really nice ones for less than $150 all the time. Mountain Sports always has stuff on sale and Backwoods never does, but don't be a cheapskate - get what's going to work best. It's worth the investment. Try on boots at both places before you buy. It will be educational and fun.
That said, I wore a pair of $30 boots from Wal Mart on many serious backpacking trips over two years before the inner lining started coming apart. I'm currently using some $20 Wal Mart cheapos. But I've worn out lots of pairs of hiking boots, 3 of which were the real expensive ones. I'm not against spending the money on the good boots, but if I see a bargain pair that's built sturdy and is an exceptional fit I'm gonna use them.
