Hiking boots or other shoes? Also, leaky boots.

Hi all :) Thank you in advance for any wisdom. I would really like to hear thoughts from the experienced :) I actually have a few mini questions about 2 topics; high-cut hiking boots vs hiking/other shoes, and if leaky hiking boots are bad. I'm not particularly fit, but enjoy nature trails and just take it slow. I did manage to complete two Great Walks last year. I'm a short girl with very small feet and it's a constant struggle to find shoes at all, let alone tramping shoes; my current ones were a miraculous find, but no longer keep water out at all. If I buy new shoes, do you think it is worth investing in high-cut hiking boots? I have heard low-cut ones, or comfy sneakers can be better in terms of being more light and flexible. Is it unwise to go tramping with regular sneakers? If I keep my current shoes (Ahnu), is it dangerous that they leak? They were literal pools last year, but maybe it is ok as long as it isn't freezing weather? It appears there's a gap between the edge of the sole and shoe itself, which may be the leak, but can this be fixed? Mister Minit? Sorry there's so much text! I'm really excited for Pouakai Circuit we're doing in a few weeks. Hope everyone enjoys the trails too this season!! Thanks again :)