I think everyone should own a pair of black or gray boots But then, I ONLY wear black boots, so... ; ) For $38, that's a steal if they're comfortable enough to keep on your feet!
You can totally wear those with a patterned top. In fact, I have a purple, black, and gray knit dress that I always think, "I need gray boots to go with this!" But it seems silly to go buy an expensive pair of boots just to wear with one dress ; )
I guess it depends on what patterns/prints you have in your wardrobe. Gray looks stunning with purples, blacks, burgundy, etc. The deep rich colors of winter.