All 4 boots are identical...right?

all four are identical.

Thanks from the many you have helped over the years.

I bought the DSS axle for $117 and it's been working great. It even comes with a 3yr 36k mile warranty.

I am in the process of changing the boots on my 2000 base. I have already done it on the other Boxster I owned, also a 2000 base. Both boots can be changed (done from the transmission end of the axle) and the same boot is used, 928 332 293 02. I also changed the boots on my 928 so maybe that makes me an almost expert.
To the original poster... you will have to look at the CV joint, as Woody said. If the joint is really running dry you would hear it. There is a good chance that there is still grease in the torn boot and as long as there is not water it could be OK.

My experience tracks JFP's comment above, unfortunately. The independent shop I went to installed cheap aftermarket axles on my 2002 S, and within less than 3,000 miles the outer grease crimps on both axles started leaking, leaving grease all over the inside of my rear wheels (and leaving the bearings short on grease, obviously). Money down the drain, IMHO. I decided to pony up for the OEM axles for the replacements. I found these photos online showing the difference:

http://986forum.com/forums/uploads02/11625581649.jpg

http://986forum.com/forums/uploads02/21625581666.jpg