If you all are getting 1.5 years out of boots you're doing great! I'm lucky to get a season! My last pair was cheapie Field & Stream from Dick's Sporting Good and luckily I got them on sale last autumn. After sale price and discount they cost me less than $20. They lasted from then until now, so I figure I got a good bargain!
I imagine the L.L.Bean boots are just about as 'good' as anywhere else. I do like their service and quick return / exchange policy. Like anywhere, their products evolve and change over time so sometimes when you try to return / exchange, you can't get the same item and have to settle for something else or pay extra $ to upgrade.
As far as waders, every pair I buy is 'the best pair I ever owned!' -- until they leak!
I sure wish somewhere with a 'lifetime gaurantee' sold baitcasting reels! I'd be all over that!