Years ago, somebody was selling jungle style boots in black.
They're virtually everywhere now. I almost bought a pair a few weeks ago.

I agree on your statement that the large Panama tread is uncomfortable if you're not walking on soft ground all day. But I've seen several variants with smaller patterns to the tread. They don't achieve quite the same look as the original jungle boots, but I suppose that doesn't really matter for this purpose.

You might also want to look at police supply sites. Lots of SWAT guys and other paramilitary-style law enforcement officers favor boots in this style. They're made much like a jungle boot, but with a tread meant for urban environments. And they make 'em with comfort in mind.