Cycling in the rain is one of the best things about being a cyclist. You get to be outside, watch your city transform under a new light, and get some exercise.
But as any experienced commuter knows, it’s hard to stay dry when you’re out in the elements for hours at a time.
It doesn’t help that most gear on the market today isn’t designed with cyclists who ride through the rain or worse, sleet or hail in mind.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of tips for keeping yourself dry while cycling:
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Staying dry while cycling is essential for comfort and safety. |
| Choosing the right waterproof gear, such as jackets and pants, can help keep you dry during rainy rides. |
| Applying water repellent spray to your cycling shoes can protect your feet from getting wet. |
| Wearing moisture-wicking clothing can help manage sweat and keep you dry during intense rides. |
| Fenders and mudguards are effective in minimizing the amount of water splashing onto your body. |
| Using waterproof bags or covers for your gadgets and essentials can prevent water damage. |
| Keeping your bike properly maintained, including lubricating the chain, can prevent rust and ensure smooth operation in wet conditions. |
| Using antifog solutions or cycling-specific glasses can help prevent fogging of eyewear during rainy rides. |
| Drying your gear thoroughly after a wet ride can help prevent odors and prolong their lifespan. |
| Being mindful of road conditions and adjusting your speed and braking distance can enhance safety when cycling in the rain. |
Know The Weather
It’s important to be prepared when you’re heading out in the rain, so check the weather before you ride.
Check the forecast for your route and make sure there isn’t any rain or snow scheduled that day. Also take into consideration what time of year it is: if it’s winter, you’ll want a warmer jacket than if it’s summer and even then it might still be chilly!
If there will be wind on your ride and how strong that wind may be can also change things up.
Finally, know how long your ride will take not only because planning ahead is always smart but also because knowing exactly how long an activity takes helps us determine how much we need to bring with us (or whether we should bring anything at all).
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Wear The Right Clothing
For starters, make sure you’re wearing breathable fabrics that wick away moisture. Avoid cotton and wool, which tend to hold sweat in your skin.
Also consider a base layer made of synthetic materials that help regulate body temperature and reduce overheating.
If it’s raining out, wear waterproof trousers as well as a rain jacket that covers your knees (some cyclists opt for full-length leg warmers). This will keep you dry while allowing your legs some movement and flexibility on the bike seat.
Bring an umbrella or rain poncho just in case!
| Clothing Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Cycling Jersey | Lightweight and breathable shirt designed for cycling, often featuring moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry. |
| Cycling Shorts | Padded shorts that provide comfort during long rides and reduce friction between your body and the saddle. |
| Cycling Shoes | Footwear designed specifically for cycling, offering optimal power transfer and compatibility with clipless pedal systems. |
| Cycling Socks | Moisture-wicking socks that provide cushioning and ventilation, keeping your feet dry and comfortable. |
| Cycling Gloves | Protective gloves that enhance grip, absorb shock, and provide padding to minimize hand fatigue. |
| Cycling Jacket | Waterproof or water-resistant jacket that shields you from rain, wind, and cold temperatures while allowing breathability. |
| Cycling Tights | Fitted and insulating legwear that provides warmth and protection during colder weather conditions. |
| Cycling Helmet | Safety gear that protects your head from impact and reduces the risk of head injuries during cycling accidents. |
| Arm Warmers | Lightweight and removable sleeves that provide warmth and protection from the sun, ideal for variable weather conditions. |
| Leg Warmers | Similar to arm warmers but designed for the legs, offering versatility and comfort in changing temperatures. |
Use Your Brakes Carefully
Braking is a major cause of wet weather crashes. In dry conditions, you can stop your bike by applying the front brake and then the rear.
In wet conditions, you should only apply your front brake lightly at first, then slowly release pressure on both brakes until you’ve slowed down enough to stop safely.
If you’re ever in an unavoidable situation where you need to use your brakes hard (such as approaching an intersection)
it’s best to alternate between applying one brake at a time instead of bringing both into play at once this will reduce any extra skidding that might occur due to water on the road surface or other factors affecting traction and control.
Cover Your Helmet Vents
You can also cover your helmet vents with a bandana or other cloth. This will keep the rain out of your eyes and help protect you from the elements.
You’ll be able to stay warm and dry, and also see better in the rain!
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Bring A Spare Change Of Clothes
Cycling in the rain can be a drag, but having an extra set of dry clothes on hand can help you avoid having to sit around in wet gear until your ride home. Alternatively, you could use a towel or sit near the heater at the gym if you’re not keen on getting out into the cold.
Bring an extra pair of shoes
This is a no-brainer if you want to avoid tracking mud onto your carpet. If you have time before leaving for work, throw some old sneakers into your bag and change into them once you arrive at work (or whenever).
| Clothing Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Cycling Shorts | Additional pair of padded shorts for comfort during long rides. |
| Cycling Jersey | Extra lightweight and breathable shirt to keep you dry and comfortable. |
| Socks | Spare pair of moisture-wicking socks for fresh and dry feet. |
| Undergarments | Extra set of underwear for improved hygiene and comfort. |
| T-Shirt | Additional shirt for casual or non-cycling activities after the ride. |
| Base Layer | Spare layer worn under the jersey to provide insulation and moisture control. |
| Pants/Shorts | Spare bottoms for post-ride activities or to adapt to changing weather. |
| Jacket/Hoodie | Extra outer layer for added warmth or protection from the elements. |
| Shoes and Socks | Spare pair of cycling shoes and socks for dry and comfortable feet. |
| Towel or Wipes | Absorbent towel or wipes to freshen up and clean yourself post-ride. |
Put On A Rain Jacket
A great way to stay dry while riding is to wear a rain jacket. Rain jackets are made of waterproof fabric that keeps your body dry, helps you keep warm when it’s cold out, and even helps you be visible at night.
There are many kinds of rain jackets available, including ones with full-length zippers or pit zips for ventilation.
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Windproof Is Just As Important As Waterproof
If you’re cycling in the rain, it’s no surprise that you’ll get wet. However, if you’re riding in a windy environment and your jacket doesn’t have full-on wind protection, then you’ll feel like a bit of a drowned rat.
You can avoid this feeling by wearing clothing that’s not only waterproof but also windproof.
Windproof clothing tends to be more expensive than waterproof on average because of the extra materials used and manufacturing processes involved.
So if you’re on a budget when choosing new gear, go for something that’s just designed to keep out rain but if you’ve got some money burning holes in your pocket (and maybe want to show off how smartly-dressed and stylishly-outfitted you are)
Invest in some quality outerwear with great water resistance and air permeability so that no breeze will ever dampen your spirits again!
Get Mudguards
Mudguards are essential for wet weather cycling. Most bikes can be fitted with mudguards, even if they’re not originally designed to have them.
It’s easy to fit them, and you don’t need any special tools. They’ll keep your clothing dry and clean and help you stay warm by keeping rain off your body.
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Waterproof Your Bike Bag Or Panniers
If you don’t want to waterproof your bike bag or panniers, then you can still make sure that they stay dry. You can use a waterproof bag, cover or pannier instead of the waterproof ones.
Bring Bike Lights With You
You also need to bring bike lights with you every time you ride. Bike lights are important because they allow cars to see you when it’s dark out, which prevents accidents and gives drivers peace of mind.
There are many different kinds of bike lights to choose from, but I recommend using a front light and a rear light together.
A typical pair of bike lights will cost around $30-50 and last for years if properly maintained (more on this later).
You can buy them online or at your local bike shop; the best places to look are Amazon or REI, which sell high quality products at reasonable prices.
If you don’t already have one, purchase a helmet! Helmets help prevent head injuries in case of an accident by absorbing impact energy caused by sudden stops or falls while cycling.
It’s important that helmets fit correctly if they’re too loose then they won’t protect your head properly when there’s an impact; if they’re too tight then wearing them can cause neck strain over time due
to friction between the straps holding it on versus against the skin underneath where they meet behind your neckline area where those straps cross over each other like an upside down “X” shape since these straps go around both sides.
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Invest In Waterproof Socks And Shoe Covers
If you are serious about staying dry cycling, it’s worth investing in waterproof socks and shoe covers. Waterproof socks are cheap and easy to use, lightweight, compact and durable.
If you want to go further with your protection from the elements, waterproof shoe covers will help keep your feet nice and dry.
| Product | Description |
|---|---|
| Waterproof Socks | Specially designed socks with waterproof membranes to keep your feet dry. |
| Shoe Covers | Protective covers that fit over your shoes to shield them from rain and mud. |
Conclusion
If you’re going to be riding in the rain, it’s best to be prepared. That means having the right clothes on, keeping your eyes peeled for puddles and drains that may cause problems when crossing them
And being aware of what could happen if you get caught in something sudden like a downpour. Most importantly: don’t forget your waterproof socks!
Further Reading
- 20 Tips for Cycling in the Rain: Discover expert tips and advice on how to stay dry and make the most of your cycling experience even when it’s raining.
- How to Cycle to Work in the Rain: Learn practical strategies and techniques for commuting to work on your bike during rainy weather, ensuring a comfortable and dry journey.
- Bike Commuting in the Rain: 20 Ways to Stay Dry: Explore a comprehensive list of helpful tips and tricks to keep yourself and your gear dry while bike commuting in rainy conditions.
Now, let’s move on to the FAQs section:
FAQs
How can I protect my electronics while cycling in the rain?
It’s crucial to protect your electronics from moisture during rainy rides. Consider using waterproof cases or bags to shield your devices from water damage.
Are there specific tires that perform better in wet conditions?
Yes, there are tires designed specifically for wet weather conditions. Look for tires with a good tread pattern and water dispersion capabilities to enhance traction and prevent slipping.
Should I apply lubrication to my bike chain before riding in the rain?
Applying a specialized wet-weather chain lubricant before riding in the rain can help repel water and maintain the smooth operation of your chain. Regularly clean and reapply the lubricant to prevent rust and corrosion.
How can I prevent my glasses from fogging up while cycling in the rain?
To prevent fogging, ensure proper ventilation by adjusting the position of your glasses or using anti-fog solutions. Consider using cycling-specific glasses with built-in anti-fog features.
Is it necessary to wash and dry my bike after riding in the rain?
It’s highly recommended to wash and dry your bike after riding in the rain to remove dirt, grime, and moisture that can contribute to corrosion. Thoroughly dry your bike to prevent rust formation.
Hellen James is an outdoor enthusiast, writer, and hiker. She loves to explore the world around her by immersing herself in nature and visiting new places.
