I have 2 pairs of boots I use when I ride.
1) My "work" boots get used when I measure streets, do inspections, etc, and they get a lot of wear on the bottom....today was not a very busy day and my FItBit shows I have already walked 12,000 steps and 6 miles today.....some days in the summer I can double that. The boots last about a year as "office" boots at that rate and I keep them polished....the shifter doesn't seem to make any permanent marks or wear. The boots then get retired for use when doing yard work at home.
2) My official "motorcycle" boots have a plastic reinforcement where the shifter is.....they never show any wear.
I have seen that they make soft covers to fit on Sport Bike Shifters.....what color would look good on your bike?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/POP-Black-Rubber-Shifter-Sock-Shoe-Protector-Shift-Co...