Cycling in the rain is no fun. Yet, if you want to cycle in the UK, it is pretty hard to avoid it. If you wear the right gear, cycling in the rain is not as bad as it might seem from the comfort of your house. It is good to try and cycle when conditions are dry; but, if you get caught out in a shower – no harm will come.
Tips for Cycling in the Rain.
Be Prepared
I always carry around a lightweight waterproof cape. Even if it looks fine when you leave the house, British weather can be tempremental and quickly change. I actually leave a waterproof in a cut down water bottle, in a bottle cage. Note some of these lightweight cycling capes are not thoroughly waterproof. In a heavy downpour, water can soon start to creep through.
Goretex.
A cycling cape made from Goretex or similar material offers the best choice for cycling in the rain. It offers breathability combined with pretty good rain resistance. If it is combined with other base layers it can leave you feeling mostly dry, even during long periods of wet weather. Cycling waterproof jackets
Be Seen
When it is raining, it often becomes quite dark, especially in winter months. Therefore, if you purchase a waterproof top, make sure it is a highly visible colour. I don’t understand why people sell black waterproof tops. On its own, rain reduces the visibility of drivers.
Be Careful.
Cycling in wet weather is, as you might expect, more dangerous. Water can make some surfaces very slippery and if you are not careful, it is much easier to be brought to the ground. For example, when it is raining be especially careful of:
- Man hole covers – anything metallic becomes very slippery
- leaves – Leaves plus water equals loss of balance
- Farm manure – Unfortunately on country roads, farmers often leave a trail of animal muck. This can become lethal when wet, be especially careful on roads like this.
Overshoes.
In the winter when it is permanently wet on the roads, I like to wear neoprene overshoes. These not only help to keep my feet warm and dry – they also help keep my shoes clean. Overshoes are much easier to wash than cycling shoes.
Avoid Colds.
Maybe its a bit of an old wives tale, that if you get wet then you will catch a cold. But, getting wet certainly doesn’t do you any favours and can lower your immune system. Some cyclists like Miguel Indurain were particularly susceptible to chest colds in the wet. It is worth keeping dry as much as possible.
Related
Cycling Rain Gear
Do You Go cycling in rain?
i cycle in ireland. The rain and wind can be very severe. Can anyone recommend somthing other than over trousers to wear. They can be very restrictive. I cycle urban about 35-40 km five days a week.