I have had 3 pair, the first leaked so I exchanged them for the 2nd pair which leaked and exchanged them for the 3rd pair. They also leak. They are a very comfortable boot but only plan to wear them in dry weather. I got tired of returning them and bought something else.
I own both. The xbolt is nice due to the bolt release feature, and to me the stock feels better and more sturdy. The Tikka has a trigger that cant be beat. They both group very well. Get the one that fits you the best and go hunting!
I have an 18 foot starweld, and did not have a kicker the first year. I did the 2nd. Too often I ran the batteries out on the electric motor, but I do alot of trolling for kokanee and lake trout, usually in a slight wind. The kicker allows me to stay out longer.