For me...

Early season stationary and active hunting in 50+ degree temps, I wear un-insulated mid-weight Colombia hiking boots.They're light, waterproof, and afford good traction.

Mid-season stationary and active hunting in 30-50 degree temps, light snow, I wear Colombia Bugaboo boots. They have light insulation (200 grams?), are comfortable, and afford good traction. At colder temps or stationary hunting I wear wicking socks with heavier socks or even battery heated socks.

Late season under 30 degrees, I wear Cabelas 10" Iron Ridge 800 gram boots with wicking socks and merino wool.

Last December I went deer hunting with a guy who had never deer hunted before. He didn't have very good boots. He ended up losing 3 toenails on his right foot, just from hunting one cold, snowyweek-end.

Good boots are worth the $$.

-Bugs