I ordered a size bigger, going by other reviews, and think that was a mistake.  If you have thermal, or special warm socks, you don't need to wear super thick ones.  I hate thick, big clumsy socks, so these boots are kind of long and big for my feet.  They're super light and comfy. Hate big clompy snowboots, so these are a treat to wear.  I drive in them every day now.  Definitely waterproof; I've shoveled multiple times in these with snow all the way up to the top of them; my socks are never wet when I remove the boots.  I've also taken shortcuts through deep snow to avoid ice and have never suffered wet feet while wearting these. Now I can play in the snow again like a kid! Joy!

They seem to have good traction and I feel pretty secure walking in them.  I adore the color, was sick of black and white, wanted something fun, these are a nice gray.  Really nice boots for me!  Thought about returning them for my actual size, but have decided to just make the best of it, because how could I live without them now??
Definitely recommend these boots.  Am new to Columbia brand, but ordered some trail shoes and now these; really great brand!  Have a great winter!  These are totally making mine better and I'm not someone who likes the cold!

UPDATE:2013 There is no traction on ice in these things; for snow and warmth, they're wonderful and I can't say enough good about them.  But I feel like I'm taking my life in my hands walking on ice, just like skating along the ice, no traction or feelings of safety whatsoever! So if you want to go for a walk in deep snow, enjoy, but maybe get something else for ice.  Just be careful on it while wearing these.