You're right, if the bear is close enough you won't have time to aim. You're just going to point and shoot but if there is enough time it might, at the very least, help you get an accurate first shot.
Have you thougth about the new Primary Arms red dot with their "Vulcan" reticle? It has a big circle around the dot that you do not see when the dot is in the center. The circle can only be seen when you're not aligned and it helps guide you to re-aquire proper alignment rather quickly. Not sure...
I just bought a pair of Danner Trail shoes to replace my Solomon Trail shoes. Both are great GTX (waterproof) trail/hiking shoes. I understand you're looking for hunting boots and would recommend you check to see what they have to offer.
I have been wearing Solomon GTX shoes and absolutely love them. I eventually wore the sole down and just replaced them with a pair of Danner Trail 2650s. I like them so far but haven't had time to wear them much.