It’s not fancy or pretty, but this simple plastic cycling rain jacket will be the most precious piece of gear you ever purchased. Trust me on this.
If you’re out riding in the pouring down rain, this cheap (and I use that word with affection) rain jacket will keep you warmer than any high-priced “high-performance” cycling jacket.
No, it doesn’t “breathe”. It seals in your body heat and creates your own little greenhouse. Yes, you will be soaked, but if it’s really raining, no rain jacket will keep you warmer than this little puppy.
I carry this cycling rain jacket with me throughout the winter and can ride with the peace of mind that no matter what the weather has in store, I will at least be warm, if not dry. I usually roll it up and stick it in a cut off water bottle and carry it with me in the bottle cage.
Price:
There are many different brands but you shouldn’t have to pay more than $30 for one. As an added bonus, you can frequently find them on sale for $20 at places like BikeTiresDirect.com.
Features:
- Waterproof PVC plastic front and back, mesh side panels for a little bit of ventilation.
- Velcro front “zipper” makes it super easy to put on and take off – especially when you’re hands are frozen numb
- Long tail keeps your backside dry if you were foolish enough to set out on the rainy day without bike fenders (more on this in a future blog entry)
- Reflective piping on back in case the day gets really dark and dreary.
Here’s one from Bike Tires Direct with the following: Completely wind and waterproof translucent rain jacket. Mesh panel underarms enhance breathability. Zippered front closure, reflective piping, elastic waist and cuffs.
A couple of summers ago I went on a cycling vacation in France and it ended up raining for the first week . Most of the photos from the at trip showcase me modeling my beautiful plastic cycling rain jacket. Thank God I packed the thing.
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