I bought a pair of these at the start of the year and have done around 8k miles in them, including lots of rain and a weeks gravel riding in Iceland.

The only time my feet got wet was when the river was higher then the boot top! Very comfortable, including to walk in, happily wear them all day and evening when camping. Didn't require breaking in for me either.

Protected my shins well when I had an accident, convinced if i'd road boots on I'd have suffered serious damage rather than just the lumps and bruises I ended up with. But no they don't offer the protection of a full crosser boot.

Agree with mac about the sole being a bit soft, but that's a trade off for the good grip. No major signs of wear on mine though having just had a quick look.

Expensive boots, but I wouldn't hesitate to buy again. (Got mine from an ebay seller in Germany, �258 inc postage).
Hope that helps.