I picked up a pair of the KUIU's on a whim this year. Wore them for several days during our CO archery hunt. I don't have much to compare them to, but they were quiet, and pretty durable. I beat them up pretty good. I did go through some deep water a few times. Deep enough to go over the top of my boots by several inches. While i still had some water leak through into the top, it was not enough that I had to dry the boots or change my socks.
Where we hunt, not necessarily a must have but they are a nice pc of gear. Keep your legs warm on a cold morning too...
My brother made fun of me for wearing them, but he made fun of my trekking poles two years ago. Guess what he had this year....lol. I fully expect him to be in Gaiters within a year.