Owners of suede shoes: Can you give me the run-down?

I’ve always been apprehensive about buying suede because I’m extremely tough on my shoes. My walk from my front door to my car may involve puddles of water, mud, snow, slush, etc., and I don’t want shoes that are going to be ruined forever—can I buy suede or should I stay away? What has your experience been with suede boots + winter?