Unlikely anyone can predict which boot you would like. So many good ones out there. If you have the budget (and even if you don't!) I'd come into the city
and go to "The D Store". That's Dainese, who make all manner of high quality and stylish Italian riding gear.
They have a good selection at the D store, check it out. I rode with 3 very experienced Women riders this weekend, IIRC, Dainese was the boot of choice.
Not cheap, but my pair are of some of the best I've owned.
MAKE SURE THEY FIT!
You may also want to check out another of my favs ... TCX. Italian design now made in Romania along with another really good one ... Forma.
I just bought a nice pair of Forma with their "Out Dry" system. A mild, mid level sport touring boot.
ALL the boots above will have "ankle protection". But there is A LOT more to it. If you buy a full race boot you may find it impossible to walk around and hang out in. So, unless your racing, a nice touring boot could work.
The Forma's were under $150 on sale. EDIT My mistake, I bought the Forma Jasper boots for $230. Sorry. I got mixed up with a pair of Alpinestars I did buy for
$150 ... terrible, sent them back for full credit with MC Accessories in Texas, great store. Night and Day Jasper vs Alpinestar tour rain on closeout. Nasty boot.
Dainese typically start over $300.
I currently own 5 pair of boots to cover street, dual sport and dirt riding.
If just street riding, just pick nice ones you can afford. To me ... comfort is key. If your boots HURT ... you will never be happy riding.
Both TCX and Forma both make some VERY comfortable boots and very affordable. Not leading edge Italian runway style ... but quite cool, IMHO.
:ride
PS: Never, EVER buy "Shorty" boots. In a crash you will regret that decision.