I like Merrell's but I've got a pair of Red Wings coming in so we'll see if that changes.
Merrill makes some decent stuff, but RW is a better shoe maker. If it’s your first GYW shoe Give it some time to break in before judgement.
Alden is my answer to the question overall. Indy’s cannot be beat IMO for style and comfort. These will change anyone’s opinion regarding footwear.
but the question is a bit too open.
sneaker: New Balance 997R or 1978. Comfortable, made in USA, tough and fairly stylish (one sleek the other classic). Also a fan of PF FLYERS for aesthetic casual, though no experience with them personally.
Dress shoe: Alden or Allen Edmond. Huge fan of the Strandmok by AE, and most everything Alden touches is fire.
Casual (non-sneaker): Quoddy or Rancourt. I wear my Quoddy Mocs a lot.
Boot: This list is huge, but my favorite overall boot is also my favorite overall footwear in general - The Alden Indy (preferably 405 or 403, but I like all the styles/ leather options pretty universally).