Cycling in the rain is rarely a pastime riders will list as a favourite. But regardless if you’re doing it because the rain started unexpectedly, because it was raining during commute time and you just had to get to work, or because the training programme said that’s what you had to do – we all find ourselves riding in downpour at some point.
Though wet rides aren’t usually something we look forward to, we can certainly take steps to make them more enjoyable – and lessen any negative impact they might have.
Here are a few tips to keep you comfy in the wet…
11 top tips for cycling in the rain
1. Invest in a good waterproof jacket
(Image credit: Future)
The most important item of clothing for battling the rain is a jacket. Not only will one of the best waterproof cycling jackets keep your torso dry it will help you regulate your body temperature. Gore-Tex is the best material as it is waterproof and breathable. A breathable material is essential so you don’t overheat.
A thinner rain jacket or ‘shell’ can also be used with the correct layers underneath, although persistent or very heavy rain will get through eventually.
2. Keep splash off with mudguards or fenders
Mudguards help when cycling in the rain
They may not look great, and they may rattle, but they are essential. The best bike mudguards for road bikes will keep all that filthy water on the road off of your feet, lower legs and back (where un-guarded wheels will spray the water with carefree abandon).
Even if you miss the rain, the roads will remain wet. That (dirty) water then gets flicked up by the wheels and makes you wet and cold. A flap added to the front guard will give you even greater protection.
3. Wear overshoes and gloves
Your extremities are the first parts of your body to be sacrificed in order to maintain a core temperature, and when your hands and feet get wet and cold you will feel disproportionally uncomfortable.
The best water resistant cycling overshoes are worth their weight in gold while gloves are a little harder to get right.
The best winter cycling gloves will protect you without being so thick as to hamper your bike control as you still need to be able to feel the brakes and gears through all that material. However, many brands produce neoprene gloves which keep…