Morning, I thought I had responded but obviously didn't.
About your jacket, ya it really seems that some jackets are great new, but invariably less over time....
About your overmitts, one thing about my biking specific rain jacket is that they really made the arms long, so in a riding position they don't move up too much. I find this helps with always staying over my gloves and or the times I've used wool gloves inside dishwashing gloves. Anyway, longer sleeves certainly help.

Interesting about your neoprene socks, I've always been curious about waterproof socks but never have bought any.....

and yes, thanks for the update.
I hope that overall, you enjoyed your trip.