I was used to getting a new pair of gloves every snowboarding season, or sometimes tearing through several pairs per season. Invariably every glove I had either ripped, turned into a sponge, or both. I've had these for over a year, and there's not a loose thread anywhere, and after a day of riding slush they were only damp at worst. Another problem I've had with some gloves is when you pull them off, the inside lining would stick to my hands and pull out, calling for a few minutes of fiddling with each finger to get it back in; these gloves don't have this problem. Oh and let's mention the fantastic liners (pipe gloves). I think I have last season's model because I don't see my color listed now, but my liners look mad sharp, with a sick red black and white design, and a web of sticky rubbery material on the palm. I've worn just the liners on many warm occasions, and I kept expecting them to rip apart as I fall, drag my hand, handle gear, etc. But aside from a bit of fuzzing near at the seams, they're still rock solid. I'll even wear the liners around town and get compliments. It would be great if Backcountry would show a picture of the liners too, so you could match your steez. Bottom line, these gloves talk the talk and walk the walk!