But even then, you never know if you're paying for higher quality, or you're just being sold shit at a higher price.

Back in 2000 I bought a pair of North Face shoes, when they were known as being a quality outfitter company. They were amazing shoes and I would replace them about every 3 years... Then around 2012 they had completed their shift to a fashion brand and their shoes barely lasted 6 months, but still cost the same.