Wet gear advice

[Lien Sdrawde]

Did you ever read any of the wonderful Dougals Adams books (I think it was 'So long and thanks for all the fish') - where there was a rain God who was unknowingly masquerading as a truck driver? ...... well, i'm a bit the opposite - where rain seems resolutely determined to avoid me whenever it can, despite living in Manchester. However, for those occasions where the law of averages determines i'm going to get a good soaking what gear would you recommend?

I have a light weight raincoat from 'tenn' which has coped well with 'showers', but little else to cope with a real soaking - and the reason that this thread was prompted was a link to some 'seal skin' socks where i've read the reviews... and a good number swore by them - and several others insinuated you may as well have been stood in a well.

Is there protection / dryness available?

 

[porteous]

My favourite film quote, in answer to the question "Why do you never wash":


"I found out at Stalingrad that a combination of dirt and body oil makes you waterproof"

Not very helpful, but it sprang to mind.

I carry a lightweight hi-vis waterproof jacket and overtrousers (Never used the over-trousers though). If you are in cycle gear your legs will dry pretty quickly anyway outside winter conditions and a w/p jacket will help keep your core temperature up. If you are commuting then you want rain gear that keeps your clothes dry. The old and unfashionable cycle cape is good, keeps the rain and vehicle splashing off while reducing extra heating, which wets you with sweating.