Great pieces Lisa!
I came to Hunters with the exact same attitude as you. Way too much, how silly for something that should cost $20, etc. But after buying 2-3 $40 pairs of other brands, that weren't comfortable, I decided to try them. They fit waaaay better than anything else. Unfortunately mine have sprung a leak, so may need to be replaced.
I have some Wellies that I keep in Scotland, that I can (and have) hiked through the hills for hours in. I really wish I'd duplicated those and brought a pair over here! Although they are much more "wear on the farm gathering sheep" looking than "wear to work on a slushy day" looking.
I'm hoping to check out those black crops. They look so breezy and comfy. Don't you already have a similar pair? From RW & co? I remember checking them out after you bought them, but I was between sizes.
Good luck with all the packing etc.