Another trick I've found for making regular boots more bearable is to punch holes in the heels with a soldering iron. You are going to get them full of water launching anyway and they are much more comfortable with the water drained out. They still keep your feet warm which is the whole idea.
Look for Rooster Sailing, Rooster Hiking Boots, the short-top ones. These short-top booties more readily allow for straight leg/toes pointed hiking. They are compact and even with a snug fit, wearing wool/polypro socks keep my, usually cold, feet comfortable. They are not as ridgid as some traditional hiking boots which I thought would be a problem; however, they proved to be comfortable in all conditions.
Good Shopping
Yea, I currently use the Gill Trap Boots (http://www.sailingproshop.com/Products/Gill-Trapeze-Boots-905__19507.aspx)
But I replace them every two years, as the neoprene inside, usually the sole just starts coming apart, and the stank becomes unbearable. Just exploring my options this time.
I made the holes with a round tip on my butane soldering iron. It melts the edges so nothing ravels and the finished holes are about 1/8" in diameter. All three holes are in the heels, one center and one on either side.
I still prefer to sail barefoot and with good well padded hiking straps, I don't have any problems with chaffe on my feet. I only wear boots when its cold or the launch area requires foot protection.