Well, as often as not, when I go backpacking for 3 or 4 days, with a 25-30 pound pack, for the last 5 years or so I've been wearing low-topped shoes that are essentially a beefed-up version of running shoes. This happens (usually) on decent trails, so not a lot of rock to clamber over, but not having to pick up the extra pound or two per foot, each time I want to move forward, that my wonderful (and rather light weight at that) goretex Montrail above-the-ankle boots weigh - makes me less tired at the end of the day. No ankles twisted yet.
If these are truly going to be a forever pair of boots, be sure that they are readily resolable. Many of the newer boots are not.
I eventually scuff up the toes of every pair of shoes I own (except, surprisingly, cycling shoes), so the rubber trim previously mentioned is a very good thing in boots.
If your feet are at all odd sized (narrow, for instance), you may find that normal-width boots are the norm these days. In that case, a good removable footbed will help with support and fill up a bit of the surplus volume inside. Plus, you can slip them out to air out overnight.
I appreciate boots with the open "speed lace" hooks near the top. Makes it easier to take off and on.