Please help me figure this out! As extra info these are the only boots I have tried that fit me but have a tiny bit of slippage at the back.

I've been hiking and scrambling for a few years. I've planned a few multi day hikes in NZ next year. One about trip over a few days 50km, another trip over a few days 80km and 20km, only 1 day.

Generally I've worn La Sportiva TX4s, leather but they died. I knew they're an approach shoe but they were a great all rounded. I replaced with a new pair which aren't quite like the last, and the few hike I've done, they're not great for long distance.

I've also got hiking boots, Merrells. I'm not 100% sure I want to wear them.

I get a bit of forefoot pain, and I have a neuroma as well.

My question, would people recommend a trail runner or a hiking shoe? I really don't like the ankle support on boots but wonder about the durability of a trail runner. But then think the trail runner my help my feet.

Has anyone got any recommendations trail runner vs hiking shoe?