Rain Gear

[ptaylor]

 I got the standard GorTex rain suit when I started my 'serious' bike riding about 20 years ago. After a few years, I got a hooded rain cape from CampMore; I intended to use it only for commuting. But soon I started leaving the full rain suit at home and taking my cape on my self contained tours. I much prefer the cape, because I don't sweat nearly as much, it is easier to put on and take off, it is lighter weight, and takes less space to pack.

The full suit is better because it catches less wind and keeps your lower legs dry.

I have done a fair amount of self contained touring, but my longest trip has been 2 weeks, and I have not hit an all day soaking rain with the cape. This summer I am doing a coast-to-coast tour with AC: I can't decide which rain gear to take.

I would like to hear some opinions from other riders who have tried both kinds of gear.

Gramps
 

Gramps

[richc]

I've used both - neither is great. I'll usually opt for the rain poncho, I've got a good one I picked up from Patagonia 15 years ago that really covers me up and doesn't make me feel like I'm in a sauna. What we need is an incantation to make the sun come out.