Are you a lover of cycle travel in all seasons? Don’t give up your bike in the city even on rainy days? Here are some tips for how to best equip yourself with waterproof clothing to cope with even the most adverse weather conditions. The first rule of thumb is still to dress onion-like with good quality technical underwear and a breathable T-shirt with short or long sleeves, depending on the season.

But beyond that, what are the essentials for cycling on a rainy day? Here they are!

Windproof jacket and rain cape

For cold and rainy periods, it is necessary to cover up a little more and be prepared to shelter from the rain. It is advisable to choose a good quality waterproof windproof jacket that not only protects but also provides good breathability, allowing the heat generated by the body to be able to escape. If the rain gets heavy, it is a good idea to keep a bicycle rain cape with you. When closed it takes up very little space, and when worn it fits well on the body thanks to special closures on the arms and also allows the legs to be sheltered thanks to a system of attachment to the handlebars.

Shoes, gaiters and socks for warm and dry feet

You know, one of the first concerns in rain and wind is keeping your feet warm and dry. The secret lies in choosing the right combination of layers for the weather conditions: shoes, gaiters and socks: here are our tips.

• Shoes. Are there shoes that actually resist water? Technology has made huge strides in this regard; there are plenty of products that meet these needs on the market today. When choosing a shoe, it is important to pay attention to three basic aspects: waterproofness, wind resistance and breathability. The sole should also not be underestimated: it is best to choose non-slip shape and materials that provide better grip on the pedals and stability when getting off the bike.

• Waterproof gaiters. Against heavy rain, no waterproof shoe will hold up. The best solution is to have waterproof gaiters that can be worn over shoes with a good closure system on the calf so that water cannot penetrate.

• Technical socks. Pay attention not only to shoes but also to choosing the right socks. Keeping your feet warm during a ride in the rain is extremely important. That is why it is recommended to choose technical socks that allow a good level of thermoregulation and protection, as well as antibacterial materials that allow optimal comfort at all times.

Rain pants

For complete protection against the rain, one can also equip oneself with windproof and waterproof pants that can be worn over one’s clothing conveniently and quickly thanks to side vents.

Gloves yes, gloves no

Just as with the feet, the hands deserve the right amount of protection, especially during rainy days. Two different types of gloves should be carried. A lightweight model, with or without fingers, with any reinforcements to protect your hands from prolonged rubbing on the grips. A heavier pair of gloves to protect the hands from rain and wind.

Helmet and cap: are they mandatory?

Although regulations do not require its use, the choice to wear a helmet is always the wisest one! Even more so in situations of rain or adverse weather that make the road surface slippery and reduce visibility. Here are some simple tips for helmet use in rain and wind. A tight-fitting under-helmet or a cycling cap can be worn under the helmet, which is soft on the head and has a flexible visor that helps stop water dripping onto the helmet. There are also waterproof helmet covers that can be worn over the helmet, preferably in bright colors and equipped with reflective bands to increase visibility.

Travel bags

Now that we are fully protected from rain and wind, it is time to think about how to protect the items we carry. We choose waterproof and durable bike bags that are lighter to attach directly to the frame, or with more structure to attach to the rack. Such as Girolibero panniers that have a system that makes it easy and quick to attach to the bike. Special attention should be paid to the material and closures, which are airtight and strong. And remember that good waterproof bags allow us to carry a change of clothes. At the end of a day riding in the rain wearing something warm and dry is a well-deserved reward!

Visibility in case of rain

In rainy weather, visibility on the road is often reduced. Let us not forget to make ourselves visible by choosing brightly colored clothing, preferably fluorescent, equipped with reflective bands, and to equip our bicycle with lights, front and rear, that make us visible from long distances.