Have had united through employer for the past 4 years. What a train wreck! Glad were switching to Moda this year...no way can it be worse. Don't get me wrong...it's great insurance as long as you never have to use it!
Samaritan group (hospital etc) out of Corvallis finally had enough and...
Might look at the Schnees timberlines. Never had a pair but seem to be exactly what you are describing. A bit taller with more flex in the sole. Good sale going on right now too.
https://schnees.com/timberline-mens/
I think your theory has legs....Ty Stubblefield was one of the founding members of BRO. He went to work for BHA. He became disenfranchised with BHA leadership. He is no longer with BHA and speaks openly about why he left.