
I don’t have any footwear suitable for bad weather, so four years ago I bought some Sealskinz waterproof socks. I’m wearing some Merino wool socks inside them, and they kept me dry and warm while hiking six miles in 5-7 inches of snow. I tucked my waterproof pants into the top of the waterproof socks so that my base layer didn’t get damp. And that worked too.

And for dry trail conditions?
If the weather is dry and cold, I’ll wear my Bedrock Cairn Evo PRO huaraches sandals paired with thick, warm Tabi socks. They’ve worked for me down to 20°F.
I love hiking in sandals with warm wool socks in the winter (if dry). My feet feel warm and cozy and free. And your other idea isn’t stupid if it worked! Seems practical enough to me!