Having worn cloks on several occassions to keep warm and dry I have never had the experiences you describe. I will admit that my cloak is a wool / polyester mix, but amalion's is pure wool and hers is even better than mine is at keeping the wearer warm and dry. I also have never had the hood blow off my head; it stays up when I want it up and down when I want it down. Nor does it collect unwanted water.

The only problem I have with a cloak is trying to drive when wearing one!