I have the Arkel T42s for the rear and love them. I like outside pockets and think they are. They are extremely well made and durable. I pack anything I want to keep dry in ziplocs anyway, but am also not concerned about stuff getting soaked because they do do a decent job of repelling water. I'm not saying stuff won't get damp, but I'm not worried about it.

I leave Sunday for NY form FL and know they will serve me well.