Stay dry: All tips and tricks for cycling in the rain

Buying advice on clothing and equipment

In this article you will find helpful, practical tips for the right cycling clothing in the rain. The information will certainly help you to survive your next bike ride in the rain better and have more fun while cycling. We have also put together other useful information for you on the subject of cycling in the rain.

Of course, it is nicer and more pleasant to get on your bike when the sun is shining and the temperature is warm than when it is raining. But sometimes you have no other choice and have to get on your bike despite the pouring rain.

Rain – Cycling clothing

Rain jacket

The rain jacket is probably one of the most important purchases for people who enjoy and are passionate about cycling.

When buying, it is important to know that you have to choose between two basic properties. Either a rain jacket that is completely waterproof or a jacket that is breathable. No jacket can have both properties together. Although some manufacturers like to advertise it that way, unfortunately it is not possible.

Because a breathable jacket cannot be 100% waterproof. And with a 100% waterproof jacket, the problem will arise that you will still get wet from your own sweat. That means just think carefully about what you need the jacket for and then decide how waterproof it should be.

You should also pay attention to the cut and shape. It is best to choose a shape that is ergonomically fitting but not too tight and a cut that is a little longer at the back. This is ideal for cycling.

Reflective strips are a sure way to stay safe on the road, and they make you particularly visible during the dark season. Many rain jackets already have reflective strips integrated into their design.

Another practical feature is if the jacket has an integrated stuff sack. Then you can easily fold up your jacket and store it compactly to take with you .

Rain poncho

Rain ponchos are particularly suitable for people who cycle a lot and want to get by without a rain jacket and rain pants. When choosing the right poncho, the first thing to look out for (besides waterproofness) is the right cut. The best poncho won't keep you dry if it's cut incorrectly.

One disadvantage of ponchos is that they can easily be blown away by the wind, and you still get wet. You should also be careful not to buy a poncho that hangs down so far at the front and back that it covers the bike light. If it is a little longer, you should make sure that there is a transparent part in the material when you buy it. This allows the light to shine through the poncho.

As with the rain jacket, reflective strips built into the poncho are useful for safety. One last practical advantage: it's great if hand straps are built in, so rain and wind from the front can't hurt you.

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Rain pants

Rain pants are particularly suitable for people who spend a lot of time on their bikes or when there are no mudguards.

Before buying, it is advisable to try on the trousers and pay attention to the freedom of movement of the legs. When cycling, it is important that you can move your legs easily. In addition to legroom, a second important purchase factor is waterproofness. This should be selected according to the intended use.

Long waterproof cycling trousers, so-called tights, are recommended for racing drivers and very sporty cyclists. Most mountain bikers tend to wear short trousers, so-called shorts. The short trousers guarantee good freedom of movement even from the knees down and are therefore ideal for riding trails.

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Overshoes

It is particularly advisable to wear overshoes in heavy rain. These are important to ensure that your feet are dry. When buying overshoes, make sure that they have a tight seal at the bottom where they meet the pedal. A tight seal at the top is also very important. This is the only way to guarantee that the shoes are waterproof.

Another little special tip from practice: Do you need waterproof overshoes at short notice? Then use 2 plastic bags or cling film as the first layer and old socks as the second layer over your shoes. Then tape the upper edge with "duct tape". This will also guarantee that your feet will be dry.

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Gloves

Gloves are essential for enjoyable cycling in the rain, especially in the cold season. Because with cold fingers you can no longer brake well. They also play an important role in the rain and contribute to the fun factor. When buying gloves, it is important that they are completely waterproof. Otherwise they would soak up water in the rain and you would get even colder.

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Rain protection – Equipment

sunglasses

Good sunglasses or safety glasses give you better visibility when cycling. When choosing the right glasses for riding in the rain, you should pay particular attention to the lenses. White, transparent or light lenses are best for this.

In addition, glasses ensure that no splashes of water, dust or other particles get into your eyes. As you probably know, this is not ideal when driving.

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Helmet cover, Aero helmet or Aero Shell

*HiLo sports bicycle helmet rain cover

A cover for your helmet is also recommended for longer bike rides. Every helmet has ventilation holes, but this can let water through when it rains. You can counteract this with a protective cover.

It is important to make sure that the cover is completely waterproof and that there are fastening options. Otherwise, your cover could be lost due to the wind.

A so-called aero helmet is often used by racing drivers. It has basically the same effects as a cover, but is a separate helmet.

The Aero Shell is an attachment that covers all the ventilation openings on the helmet. Sometimes an Aero Shell is included with your helmet, or you can simply buy one separately.

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Waterproof backpacks / bags

*HiLo sports URBAN 25 backpack waterproof"

These are particularly important for those who use their bikes to get to work. They allow you to keep your documents or technical equipment dry. High-quality waterproof bags or backpacks are usually made from a similar material to truck tarpaulins. It is also important that the zippers are waterproof. This is the only way you can be sure that your items will stay 100% dry.

When buying, you should also make sure that the product itself is light and that the backpack has a good hold on your back. When buying a waterproof bag, you should make sure that it includes attachment options for your bike.

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Mudguards

Mudguards are available as permanent equipment for bicycles or as removable replacement parts. They prevent liquids from splashing up from the ground towards the body. Mudguards usually don't cost much, but they have a great effect.

With a mudguard you can ride on wet roads without needing protective clothing. This is particularly pleasant in summer temperatures, when you sweat more. The mudguards are also a welcome guest on your bike during heat storms.

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lighting

Lighting on a bicycle is not only useful, but also mandatory in the dark or in poor visibility conditions, such as heavy rain. The way bicycles must be lit is prescribed by law. It is important for all lighting to be waterproof in the rain. We have a detailed Article about roadworthy bicycles written. There you will find all the information you need to know about bicycle lighting. ​

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Protect your bike from rain

Now that you know how to best protect yourself from the rain, we will explain how to keep your bike dry. It's not just rain that can damage your bike, UV rays or dust can also make your bike look unsightly more quickly. To prevent rust, dirt or water splashes, it is advisable to protect your bike.

Whether in the basement, garage, or outside, with a cover your bike will stay beautiful for longer. About the HiLo sports premium bike cover you are welcome to find out more. We have also provided you with a video about the product.

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Would you like to protect your bike from the wet? Then take a look at the category Bicycle Rain Covers: click here

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Tips for cycling in the rain

Brake carefully

When the road is wet, you should be particularly careful when braking. You could start to skid if you brake too hard. You should be particularly careful with road markings, such as on zebra crossings. ​

Grounding

After buying a bike, you should always degrease the tires, as most new tires have a film of grease on them. In general, you should also pay more attention to other road users. Most cyclists are not particularly safe when riding in the rain. Many, including other road users, underestimate the longer braking distance on wet roads.

Dangers on the ground

As mentioned above, you should pay more attention to road markings, as braking on them can be very slippery. You should also be careful when braking on leaves, oil or other materials. Even the first drops of rain on the ground can make things very slippery.

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Bicycle care after a rainy ride

Clean

You should clean your bike after every ride in the rain. Simply rinse the bike briefly with a hose and then dry it again.

Lubricate

A little oil certainly won't harm your bike either. You can find out exactly how to do this and what you should bear in mind in our Article Bicycle Spring Check read more. 

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