None of us enjoy cycling in the rain, but sometimes we have no choice. When we're on a long trip far from home, we should prepare for any situation. These days, when the weather is unpredictable , forecasts are rarely accurate, and sudden downpours are common, we have two options: wait it out or dress appropriately and keep riding.
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A jacket for cycling in the rain
Cycling jackets are designed slightly differently than regular sports jackets. They're longer in the back and feature additional ventilation panels and reflective elements. It's worth noting that cycling jackets also have slightly longer sleeves, ensuring your hands are always protected from the rain while you're leaning over the handlebars. A cycling rain jacket costs between 200 and 1000 PLN, but the difference in ride comfort is significant. These jackets truly protect you from the rain. Furthermore, the additional ventilation panels mean you don't sweat as much when riding in the rain, and the internal mesh helps wick sweat away from your skin. A breathable membrane, waterproof seams, and waterproof zippers ensure you can conquer even the harshest weather.
Rain pants - the best option for cycling in the rain
Along with your jacket, it's a good idea to buy rain pants. Lightweight pants will definitely get wet in heavy rain, but they dry very quickly – if you also wear cycling underwear, it usually takes a few minutes. Their more rubberized counterpart is 100% waterproof, but the non-breathable material makes riding in them less enjoyable.
Rain shoe covers
When riding in the rain, it's worth having shoe covers. Their use is simple, and the benefits are invaluable. Dry footwear is crucial on long trips, as wet socks can cause hypothermia, and hypothermia can quickly turn into a cold. These covers temporarily waterproof our lightweight footwear, improve thermal comfort, and protect us from the wind.
Poncho and cape
A poncho, also known as a raincoat, provides excellent protection when cycling in the rain. If you're on a tight budget and don't want to spend half your salary on cycling clothes, a poncho is the perfect solution. It protects your torso, arms, and legs. The downside, however, is that this material simply doesn't breathe. A poncho doesn't protect your footwear either. The upside, however, is that it costs around 50 PLN and takes up very little space when folded. So, if you're on a budget and have limited space in your backpack, this is probably the best choice. However, if you want to approach the matter professionally, a complete cycling outfit is the perfect solution. Cycling clothes allow your body to breathe. A raincoat comes with shoe covers and cycling shorts, ensuring your legs are adequately protected. Also worth mentioning are mudguards, which are worth their weight in gold in the rain, as well as appropriate lighting and reflectors. These can be lifesavers in inclement weather.
Pewnie. ma sens!
Ja korzystam z obydwu zestawów. Gdy jadę bardzo blisko, np. do sklepu (ogólnie do 3 km) zakładam poncho i ochraniacze na buty. Natomiast do pracy mam 12 km, więc gdy pada zakładam kurtkę, spodnie i też ochraniacze na buty. Po prostu przy krótkich odległościach drugiego kompletu nie chce mi się zakładać, żeby zaraz pod sklepem ściągać. Spodnie z jakich korzystam, to takie luźne wodoodporne, które ubieram na normalne spodnie.
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