I came across this very recent short thread on the Terra Plana Facebook page:
"Bryon Rossi: The Franklin's are the best 3 season boot I've ever owned. Do you recommend treating them with some sort of leather conditioner or protection?
"Terra Plana A water proofing spray for leather could further protect against cosmetic water damage but they have been water proofed."
http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10150099089918388&id=6625133387
Also, Earl Gray Toe put a post into the "Minimalist Snow Boots" thread on this forum, saying that Franklins does the job - see 1st and 3rd posts in this thread:
http://www.toesalad.com/node/172
Earl Gray Toe and jurado hall have also written positive reviews on this boot: http://www.toesalad.com/node/79
I find all these really helpful, as a barefoot-type waterproof boot is something that I really have to get.
I'm with you Isha looking for a minimalist winter boot. The Franklin's look great for a city boot and may work great with a gator. I run a cottage resort perched on a hill in a place that can have from 2-5 of snow on the ground. Traction is going to be an issue for me at the expense of thinness. Being in and out of cottages to do repairs I am looking for something that slides off and on quickly and is taller. I left a message with Stem when I pre-ordered their shoe.....hoping they will take up the cause by next winter. I like how they went with the wrap affect on the Franklin's as I had suggested that to Stem. If they did a boot similar to Kuuva but had the upper fabric wrap and velcro strap on the outside of the leg. time will tell