For boots I got Solomons. They were nice because I took them on the west coast trail (first time used... I know) but they were very comfortable. They make the shoe so you don't need to break them in.
http://www.salomon.com/caus/product/...article=128391
As for jacket, there are now a lot better stuff out there than goretex. Just need to look it up.
And backpack depends how long you plan to go out for. If you're just doing day trips you won't need a 60l and vice versa.