I have a version of these that I picked up at the local uniform store. This is my 3rd season with them and they are great. The thumb hood is critical for working outside, which I do, and riding. I find there are a lot of commutes where I keep the fingers exposed and the thumb covered and it's perfect. This isn't the brand I have, but the same design. I have sewn both mitten-hoods(?) because that's where you naturally pull them off. The next pair I'll sew right away. They're not waterproof, but I never needed them to be even in a heavy rain, which I count as a free washing.