Blinking heck! This debate was rolling along in much the same manner when i started out four years ago. After reading about what was needed i bought a set of Kamleikas. These should last for ever as i have only worn the smock once for a couple of hours during the OMM and once on a training run and the pants once on the bike. In my opinion, if you go for this sort of option (waterproof, taped seams and hood), you are covered for every eventuality.