I don’t have any problem with SealSkinz waterproofing. Just get a pair long enough to cover whatever immersion they are going to get – and yeh, if you leave the top exposed water will dribble in.
I got fed up of ‘waterproof’ boots so I now use SealSkinz and sandals for wet and cold conditions, eg crossing boggy stuff. Waterproof boots are a disaster once you get some water in them in subzero temps – they trap the water and your feet get icy cold. Sandals drain quickly.
The important thing is to get a size that fits you loosely. If they are tight and stretched then obviously the seams and whatever waterproof membrane they are using are being stressed.
Here’s an example – that’s a Keen sandal and SealSkinz stockings – I waded around in that lot and no water got in. My feet didn’t freeze either, but obviously heat was being lost through conduction. Once out of the water they were toasty in no time.
I agree about the gloves though – a bit disappointing.
Wading through snow with them is no bother either.