Yes - laminate gear with bonded membranes is genuinely waterproof. Traditional liner-based "waterproof" gear eventually soaks through the outer layer, though you stay dry underneath. Laminate stays dry longer.
If you ride regularly, yes. Compact oversuit ($50-150) rolls up small. Getting caught in rain without waterproofs is miserable and dangerous - wet gear clings and chills quickly.
Laminate waterproof gloves (Gore-Tex Infinium, Hipora) work well in moderate rain. In heavy sustained rain, water eventually gets in at the cuffs. Gauntlet-style gloves over jacket sleeves provide the best seal.
