I don't have a car and work is not on a bus route so yes I often cycle in the rain.
I keep two sets of waterproofs. I have a set of lightweight breathable water resistant outer clothes. I wear the jacket most of the time, and put the trousers on at the slightest sign of rain. They were cheap and are only effective in light rain. They get grubby pretty quickly and they get washed and re-proofed. They are good for stopping windchill and I can pedal hard and not get wet with sweat. I wouldn't want to spend hundreds of pounds on top quality breathable gear because I would want to keep it clean rather than wearing it.
I also carry some non-breathable waterproofs for more serious rain. They beat any of the "breathable" fabrics for water-tightness but I have to use the battery more and avoid putting any effort into the pedalling to minimse sweating.
Hoods are an essential feature on the waterproofs. The hood is put up first, then the helmet covers it. The helmet clamps the hood down and stops the wind getting into the hood. This is quite a comfortable arrangement, particularly if the helmet has a peak to reduce the rain reachnig your face. The hood keeps your hair dry and stops water trickling down your neck, which makes rides in the rain much more tolerable.
This combination works for me, but then its only 2.5 miles to work. That is far enough however to get drenched or soaked with sweat, as I know from experience.
|