Then I experimented with woolen socks for winter. I waterproofed my boots, tent, jackets, and coats. Used a spray, heavy duty silicone spray, from an auto department.
Then I got a pair of military surplus, Swiss army woolen gaiters, that made the uninsulated boots warmer and protected much of the boot.

Tested them in 7 degree weather and worked great as a back-up or main boot.
Certainly isn't a $500 or $999 boot. Sure glad of that. Sure glad of leaving those expensive boots to others. I hike 12 months a year.