Chevota,
Having lived in San Diego for a few years, the issue with no dust boots in cali is really a non- issue..... you are correct.
But, in the northeast, the boot keeps the snow and frozen sludge off the shock piston. Especially if I am planning on leaving the car outside when it gets completed. Having 4 cars and space for 2 indoors leaves me to become anal with sealing everything up best as possible.