In short, the size 8 boot is waterproof for only  3 1/2 inches on the sides.  Rainwater rolls off the curved tongue through the large gap near the eyelets and flows freely into the boot.  If the snow or the muddy water is deep you could try walking on your toes where the boot is actually waterproof for 5 inches.  Nice boots notwithstanding   did you say WATERPROOF GUARANTEED?