Rank: | Photo: | Model: | Rating: | More Info: |
#1 |  | BEST CYCLING RAIN JACKET BALEAF Waterproof Jacket | ||
#2 |  | BEST CYCLING RAIN PANTS Acme Projects Rain Pants | ||
#3 |  | BEST CYCLING RAIN GLOVES SEALSKINZ Unisex Waterproof Knitted Glove | ||
#4 |  | BEST CYCLING RAIN SHOE COVER USHTH Waterproof Rain Shoe Cover | ||
#5 |  | BEST MUD GUARDS SKS Raceblade Pro XL Road Bicycle Fenders |
Cycling is one of the most environmentally-friendly forms of transport.
You can commute or explore with just the power of your muscles, getting fitter and healthier at the same time.
However, while cycling is enjoyable in warm and dry climates, it can be challenging on rainy days.
Luckily, there is plenty of cycling rain gear on the market so that you can cycle rain or shine. This waterproof gear keeps the water out of your regular clothes and allows you to focus on your pedaling.
In this cycling rain gear review guide, we look at the best options on the market. We discuss the pros and cons of each item and make buyer recommendations.
We also discuss how you can ride safely during rain to protect both yourself and your precious bicycle.
So, let’s get started!
Contents
Best Cycling Rain Gear – Reviews for 2022
Best Cycling Rain Jacket: BALEAF Waterproof Jacket
PRODUCT SPECS
- Material: Polyester
- Size: Small to 3XL
- Weight: 6.4 ounces (181g)
PROS
- The jacket is fully sealed against wind and rain.
- It has 5000mm waterproofing.
- It is compact enough to fit into a pocket.
- It includes ventilation through the fabric.
- The jacket is fluorescent and reflective for safety.
- It is available in multiple colors.
- It includes multiple storage pockets.
- It includes a hood to protect the face from the rain.
CONS
- The fit is a bit small.
- The jacket is not breathable enough for warm weather.
The BALEAF Waterproof Jacket is the best cycling rain jacket. It is super waterproof, with a 5000mm waterproofing rating and a fully sealed design that protects against water droplets. This slim fit also insulates against the cold wind.
With its fluorescent design and reflective strips, it increases your safety in rainy conditions. Cars can see you more easily and therefore there is less of a hazard. It is available in multiple colors, so you can choose the design that fits your aesthetic.
We also like that the jacket has a large hood, which keeps the rain off your face and out of your eyes. You don’t need to wear a cap with this garment.
The jacket is lightweight and easy to take on the go. It fits stuffed into a back pocket, so you can pull it out and store it as needed. It has six pockets where you can keep your valuables while you cycle.
The main downside of this rain jacket is insufficient ventilation. Although it features breathable fabric and a ventilation flap at the rear, it can feel too hot in tropical climates. The jacket is better suited to cold winter rains when you won’t overheat.
Overall, the jacket is affordable and great value for money. If you live in a colder climate, it can fully keep out the water and wind, allowing you to focus on your cycling.
Best Cycling Rain Pants: Acme Projects Rain Pants
PRODUCT SPECS
- Material: Polyester
- Size: Small to 3XL
- Weight: 11.3 ounces (320g)
PROS
- The pants are completely waterproof with a 10000mm rating.
- They have sealed seams to avoid water leakages.
- They have a breathable membrane to keep water out and increase airflow.
- The pants are adjustable to most body shapes.
- They have a simple and classic design.
- They have pockets for extra storage.
- They are affordable.
- The pants are lightweight and portable.
CONS
- The sizes run a little tight and long.
The Acme Projects Rain Pants are the best cycling rain pants. They slip on over the top of your regular pants and keep them dry from even heavy rains. They feature a fully waterproof design up to 10000mm.
They further protect against moisture from the tapered legs with Velcro straps and sealed seams. The former allows you to protect yourself from any puddle splashes, while the latter keeps the pants completely closed against penetrating moisture.
The pants are relatively lightweight and breathable. They have a 3000gm breathability rating and are comfortable in temperate to cool climates. However, they may feel uncomfortable in tropical weather.
They have a simple black design, which can blend with any clothing and is inoffensive. They also have a couple of pockets, so you carry your keys or other small valuables.
The main downside of these rain pants is the fit. They tend to be tighter around the waist with longer legs. This will fit you well if you have long legs and a slim waist but may be uncomfortable for other body types.
Overall, they are affordable and effective protective rain pants. They won’t win any awards for fashion, but they keep out the wind and rain so you can protect your clothing and body.
Best Cycling Rain Gloves: SEALSKINZ Unisex Waterproof All Weather Ultra Grip Knitted Glove
Product Specs
- Material: Nylon, elastane, and merino wool
- Size: Small to XL
- Weight: 3.9 ounces (111g)
Pros
- Ranks high on design and performance.
- Handmade from premium materials.
- Keeps hands safe from water, wind, and other elements.
- Breathable and warm.
- Touchscreen-friendly and provides good control and grip.
- Durable and meant to last for years.
- Suitable for men and women and different hand sizes.
- Easy hand movement.
Cons
- The package includes only one glove.
- The glove is not suitable for freezing temperatures.
We love the Unisex Waterproof All Weather Ultra Grip Knitted Glove from SEALSKINZ, as it has a three-layer construction and is handcrafted from quality materials.
Its exterior is made of nylon and elastane, while the interior is made of merino wool, nylon, and elastane. This makes it highly waterproof, warm, cozy, breathable, and durable.
It protects your hands from dirt, water, wind, and cold, making it ideal for any weather condition. The merino wool lining delivers increased insulation, comfort, and moisture control, helping you ride for longer without stopping.
The knitted glove also features a silicone printed palm and fingers to provide better grip and dexterity. It has a touchscreen-friendly index finger and thumb area, allowing you to use your smartphone and other electronic devices effortlessly.
Its high-stretch construction offers a comfortable, supportive fit, allowing you to move your hands freely. The glove’s pull-on closure makes it convenient to wear even if you’re in a hurry.
It has been thoroughly tested for superior performance. So you can rest assured that you will receive a cycling rain glove that meets all your expectations.
This glove also comes in colors like black, gray, navy blue, and neon yellow. Overall, this glove is a reasonable budget buy with excellent performance.
Best Cycling Rain Shoe Covers: USHTH Waterproof Rain Shoe Cover
PRODUCT SPECS
- Material: PVC
- Size: Small to XXL
- Weight: Unknown
PROS
- PVC construction is resistant to water, mud, and dust.
- They are foldable, lightweight, and portable.
- They include reflective strips on the heel for extra safety.
- The covers are easy to put on, cover the entire shoes, and are adjustable.
- They are affordable.
- The bottoms are non-slip for safe pedaling and walking.
CONS
- The material is not breathable.
- The sizes run small.
The USHTH Waterproof Rain Shoe Covers are the best cycling rain shoe covers. At a very affordable price, they strike the right balance between durability and adjustability.
They have a 100% PVC construction, which completely keeps out water, mud, dust, dirt, and more. The durable material does not tear easily and protects your shoes and feet from any wetness or discomfort.
You can adjust the covers to your feet. They slip on easily and have a wide design that allows you to insert your shoes. The sizes do run a bit small, so we recommend sizing up. The elastic at the top stops any water from getting inside.
They have non-slip bottoms that allow you to pedal and walk safely. The covers’ heels also feature reflective strips, so you are more visible if you cycle at night.
Because the covers are so thick, there is not much airflow. Therefore, it could feel uncomfortable if you wear them in a tropical climate or for long periods. However, overall they do an excellent job of keeping out the elements.
Best Mud Guards: SKS Raceblade Pro XL Road Bicycle Fenders
PRODUCT SPECS
- Material: Plastic
- Size: 700 x 18-25 or 700 x 25-32
- Weight: 7.4 ounces (210g)
PROS
- They clip on easily to your tires.
- They can suit different sizes from 25 to 32mm.
- The plastic material is durable and resistant to damage.
- It installs quickly and suits different brakes, axles, or aero forks.
- They are lightweight.
CONS
- They are not the most affordable options.
The SKS Raceblade Pro XL Bicycle Fenders are the best mud guards. They clip onto your bike and use their long mud flaps to protect against splashes of mud and rain. This keeps your legs and your bicycle as clean as possible during the rainy season.
You can affix the fenders to a wide variety of bicycles. You can install them with the intuitive quick release hinge design. They fit to different points, including disc brakes, aero forks, direct mount brakes, and axles. If the fit isn’t perfect, you can adjust the stays’ length.
They are lightweight but surprisingly durable, able to withstand small impacts during your rides. They are not cheap, but they are well worth the investment for rainy rides.
Things to Consider When Buying Cycling Rain Gear
Weight
You will wear cycling rain gear on top of your regular clothes, so it will add extra weight. The more lightweight the apparel, the less that it will weigh you down and possibly overbalance you.
Bear in mind that clothing can get heavier if it isn’t fully waterproof and absorbs some of the water. Any extra weight will make you have to pedal harder and maneuver more strongly around corners.
Waterproofing
Ideally, rain gear should be fully waterproof. You want it to keep your clothes underneath dry, so you can arrive presentable at your destination. A stronger grade of waterproofing is better, especially if you need to cycle/commute over long distances.
Durability
As with all cycling clothing, wet weather gear needs to be durable. You may accidentally fall, brush against tree branches, or flick up stones from the ground while you cycle. The best cycling rain gear is durable enough to resist these conditions without tearing.
Fit
If your cycling rain gear is too loose, it can be dangerous. It may get caught around your handlebars or bottom of the bicycle. Especially if the conditions are windy, it could slow you down. Gaps between you and the garment could allow water to get inside.
On the other hand, gear that is too tight will make you feel uncomfortable and may cause you to overheat. The best fit is close to your body without pinching or making you feel squeezed.
Price
There is cycling rain gear for all budgets. However, you should consider investing in higher-priced items.
While they may be more expensive at first, they usually have a higher level of waterproofing and overall durability. Especially if you live in a place with frequent rains, spending more upfront could be a good investment in the long term.
Cycling Rain Gear FAQ
What do cyclists wear in the rain?
Cyclists wear a lot of different gear in the rain. Each item has a design that keeps a different body part dry.
Arguably the most important rain gear is a waterproof jacket. It protects the torso and arms, as well as the clothing underneath. A jacket allows cyclists to stay warm and comfortable, while arriving dry at their destination.
Rain pants are also essential. They protect the legs from droplets. This is crucial because normal pants like jeans or trousers can take a long time to dry. If cyclists need to commute to work in the rain, they can slip rain pants on top and protect their legs.
Unless you live in a tropical climate, rain is usually cold. Therefore, waterproof or water-resistant gloves are another essential item for cycling in the rain. They keep the fingers warm so you can grip the handlebars and brakes.
Shoes often take a long time to dry. They can also receive the worst of mud and rain because of their close proximity to the ground. Therefore, shoe covers are essential for cyclists in the rain.
Lastly, some sort of head covering can be a lifesaver in rainy conditions. Caps with a brim are ideal because they keep water off the face. Cyclists could also wear goggles to keep their vision clear in wet conditions.
What is the best rain gear for cycling?
The best rain gear for bike commuting and cycling is fully waterproof. It can fully repel water and keep your clothing underneath dry. It should also be lightweight, so that you can stay agile and cycle without it weighing you down.
It should fit snug to your body to avoid water getting in through any gaps. Inner lining can keep you warm and comfortable during cold winter rains. The exterior should be durable enough to resist any damage from trees or an accidental fall.
This review guide contains all of the best rain gear for cycling. We suggest reading about each product so you can make the best choice for you.
How do you cycle/commute in the rain?
If you need to cycle/commute in the rain, there are some steps you should take to make your ride safer and more enjoyable.
Firstly, you should use at least one safety light. A blinking lamp can make you more visible in dark and wet conditions. Attach it to the back of your bike or to your clothing and make sure that it’s working before you leave home.
Before leaving home, you should also check that your tyres are in good condition. They can absorb more mud in wet weather, which could contain puncturing materials like glass.
If they are in good shape, you should consider reducing the tire pressure by 5 or 10psi. This maximises the surface area of the tires, allowing them to grip more easily. Alternatively, you can switch them for wet-weather options.
Make sure that you have full-body wet weather gear on. This could include a jacket, pants, gloves, shoe covers, and a head covering. A cap with a brim can keep the rain out of your eyes so you have better visibility.
Mudguards are another great accessory. They protect your tires and lower body from any muddy puddles along the way. We recommend them for especially heavy showers.
Lastly, you will need to ride slightly differently during rainy conditions. Avoid deep puddles because they can make you skid or may contain hidden debris.
You will need to brake earlier than usual because your bike will take longer to stop. You should also take corners at lower speeds to avoid skidding out. When turning, take care to stay straight upright so that the bike doesn’t overbalance.
Is it OK to ride a bike in the rain?
It is ok to ride a bike in the rain. You will need to take some more safety precautions than usual, but it isn’t prohibitively dangerous for an experienced cyclist. Some people even prefer riding in the rain.
Cycling in rainy conditions can help you to improve your overall fitness and cycling skills. Because the roads are harder to navigate in wet weather, you will need to focus hard and perfect your technique. This can make you an overall better cyclist.
There are also likely to be less people on the roads during wet weather. Without the usual traffic, you can experience more peace and solitude in exchange for getting a bit wet.
If you choose to ride your bike in the rain, make sure to always clean and dry the bicycle after you get home. We cover these steps in the next section.
How do you dry a bike after rain?
After a ride in the rain, it’s important to clean and dry your bicycle as soon as possible. By doing so, you can minimize the damage and make sure that your bike lasts for as long as possible.
Follow these steps to clean and dry your bicycle after rain:
- Rinse off any dirt or mud. You can use your garden hose or an outside tap, but be careful not to use high pressure.
- Spray every exposed surface of the bicycle with a bike cleaner. We recommend the Muc-Off MOX-904 Nano Tech Bike Cleaner.
- Use a soft brush or clean sponge to rub the cleaner on every part of the bike.
- Use a brush and pay special attention to the chain. Work the bristles through each groove in the chain to remove any mud.
- Use the hose or tap to rinse off all traces of the cleaner.
- Use an old towel or rags to thoroughly dry all metal parts of the bike, especially the frame.
- Add fresh lubricant to the bike chain and cables. Washing them can strip the lube and cause long term damage.
- If you are still worried about water being trapped in the bike, you can remove the seat and its post and flip the bike upside down. Leave it to drain for a couple of hours before drying it again with a towel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there’s no reason to stop cycling just because it’s raining. It can be more challenging to ride a bike in rain, but proper rain gear makes the commute a lot easier.
High quality cycling rain gear is waterproof and keeps you completely dry. It is also lightweight enough not to slow you down, but durable enough to resist damage. It should fit you well and feel comfortable.
As well as wearing proper rain gear, always take care to cycle more carefully in rainy conditions. Remember that your bike will brake slower and that you need to avoid skidding out around corners. Safety is always important, so put yours first!
Last Updated on July 28, 2023 by Danijel Cakalic
