I have actually found myself reaching for thinner socks since moving up north. I still stay with wool, but instead of thick, bunchy squishy hiking socks, I'm wearing the thinner socks that are designed for other sports or even for casual wear. It's all about allowing the blood to circulate.

Also, once the temperatures get below a certain point, you're right -- hiking boots are not the warmest. They are designed for support, not for warmth. I have snow boots that are rated to -40℃. They are not pretty, and they don't provide much support. Which is fine, because I'm trying to strengthen my foot muscles anyway. But they do keep my extremities from getting dangerously cold when I'm out walking the dog.

If I want to wear something a bit nicer than my snowboots, I've got Uggs-that-don't-look-like-Uggs. Nice and cozy!