The boots have always been obtainable as i've been using them for years. No one ever looks deep enough into the engi or uses half the stuff available to them at 29 which if anything is hilarious due some of the items being so horrificaly overpowered used with a well timed free action pot or another item.
Not blowing my own trumpet at all but this guide (my guide) highlights a lot about engineering at 29 and what can be used and how to use it.