Thank you, everyone, for all the tips! I wondered about the lacing. On the last winter hike I did, I ran into two separate guys who had my same boots. I asked if they get shin bang and one said "no, but I lace mine really tight" and the other said "no, but I lace mine really loose". Now I'll keep the upper part looser for most of the time!
Robertjoy, I might take my boots in to try on footbeds. I think I have high arches, too. I know the boots are the right size but maybe the footbeds would make them fit even better. Doesn't hurt to try, I guess.