I hear you Patrick, I think that severe factors come into play with things like this. One being that the designer of an automobile component doesn't always see the big picture and are just focused on their small piece. Another factor could be the need to be competitive in cost and a more practical part while being easier for the consumer to repair when needed, increases the cost and reduces the number of units sold. Still there is always the possibility that the manufactures are in cahoots with repair shops and they get to charge more for a more complicated repair. Then of course there is the likelihood that they are just out to get us!
I seem to recall someone once slicing the boot lengthwise, slipping it over, and then gluing the boot back together and banding it in place with the joint upwards. Probably not the best method, but it worked for them.
Jim