Riding in the rain ASAP

[johnr]

Rainlegs are your only man. They cover the thighs and keep them dry; the air circulates around them (no sweating); the lower legs don't seem to get discomforted (except by temperature). I also go with the Sealskinz socks for precisely the reasons set out above. I'd also get some mudguards - the steady spray up your back is going to make your bum sore if you're out all day.

But on the whole, I'm missing the rain at the moment. It's never as bad as driving headwinds.

 

[2Loose]

+1 for mudguards and then wear something close to the skin that won't flap about. Preferably quick drying (lycra?).

If it is warm, then as little fabric as you can get away with - you will be warm anyway and there will be less to dry out. A windproof top tends to take the chill out of the breeze if you are wet, but I tend to put mine on after the rain has passed to help warm up if I am getting a chill from the wind.

Also glasses and something with a peak to keep the rain out of your eyes while riding are a good idea.

 

[cyberknight]

Went out today for maybe 40 miles .
Started in bright sunshine and got 1/2 way round and the heavens opened , the rain was bouncing off the road as i waited under a tree for a good 10-15 minutes as i micro adjusted my seat post height it decided to slip all the way down and i had to guess where it should go again

By the time i got going again i was cold and my hands stayed numb for the rest of the ride...

 

[mickle]

+1 Mudgourds - add mudflaps too if you have any consideration for those cycling behind you
+1 Cotton peaked cycling cap- 1000% better than glasses for being able to see when pedaling into driving rain.
+1 Wicking fabrics to lift any dihydrogen oxide away from the skin.
+1 Breathable water-proofs - non breathable water-proofs are worse than useless. Go for lightweight which is more breathable than heavy duty fabric and always pitvents).
+also: Avoid leather in garments if poss in gloves and shoes. Synthetics such as 'Lorica' etc dry quicker and are less prone to water damage.

 

[Jezston]

+1

I get horribly hot and itchy so I invested in a proper waterproof cycling jacket with a high breathability factor thing (too early for technical talk). I grew up in Wales - water resistant is next to useless. Great for a light and short shower. That is it. Take clothes that will dry out quickly and lots of spare socks (wet socks = rubbing and blisters).

Mind if I ask what jacket you got, and how much it cost?

 

[cadseen]

Mudguards mudguards and mudguards.

If your doing the 215 miles in one ride and its competitive then dont bother and go flat out if its raining

 

[mickle]

Mudguards mudguards and mudguards.

You ride a tricycle.....?

 

[Slaav]

Well...... rain!

What on Earth was I thinking?

3 days in Eire and the only rain I saw was between the finish line and the hotel - 1 mile!!!!!!!

Wicklow mountains, 'sunny' Wexford, Cork and the 'Sally Pass' without a single drop. Unbelievable and great.