Until drier conditions arrive, you’ll have to occasionally don appropriate gear to help you better enjoy those overcast, rainy group rides. Here’s what you’ll need.
Rapha Rain Jacket
$285 1 of 9
Rain jackets are notorious for not fitting correctly, irritating the skin and being just plain unfashionable. Rapha has solved all three of these problems with this streamlined, stylish rain jacket. On the inside, a soft three-ply fabric is used for comfort, making it a good option if you're looking to pair it with a short-sleeve jersey in warmer weather. It features reflective striping across the chest and back for increased visibility, and is also light enough to pack in a jersey pocket when drier conditions prevail.
Find a
CYCLING EVENTCastelli Nanoflex 2 Bibshort
$99 2 of 9
In really wet weather, a soggy chamois can get uncomfortable pretty fast. While some cyclists opt for waterproof tights worn over a pair of bibs, that may not be feasible in warmer weather without the possibility of overheating. The Castelli Nanoflex 2 is a suitable alternative for maintaining an optimal body temperature—particularly during a race. The water repellent fabric used will keep you dry and comfortable while still providing moisture-wicking properties. If temperatures do get colder or if you'd like a layer of protection for the rest of your legs, the Castelli Nanoflex leg warmers are a a good bet.
Find a
CYCLING EVENTGore Equipe Gore-Tex Cap
$39.99 3 of 9
An underutilized piece of rain gear, the cycling cap will keep your head warm and dry and water away from your eyes. The Equipe cap from Gore is made of quality, durable materials and a tailored fit that won't feel out of place or bulky beneath a helmet. During hard efforts, it also breathes better than most other full waterproof caps, making it a solid option for the spring racing season.
Find a
CYCLING EVENTAssos Rainglove_EVO7
$89 4 of 9
The usual bulkiness that accompanies waterproof gloves can often lead to problems shifting. The Assos EV07 rain glove is one of the rare exceptions, and thanks to the company's new 3-D construction, it's one of the best fitting waterproof gloves I've ever tried. The cuffs also feature fabric that makes it easy to wipe away water from glasses, which is its own separate rain-induced dilemma. The EV07 is suitable for weather in the high 50s and 60s.
Find a
CYCLING EVENTEndura Road Overshoe
$49.99 5 of 9
Endura is a Scottish-based company that knows a thing or two about making rain gear that works. Tough, durable construction and a welded center seam that improves water tightness and provides a bit of style are a few of the highlights that won't go unnoticed once you start logging miles. The hard-wearing material on the bottom of the Overshoe and the strong aramid thread used for the stitching will ensure these last you much longer than one season—which makes them one of the best buys on this list.
Find a
CYCLING EVENTTopeak Defender iGlow X
$89.95 6 of 9
This compact fender from Topeak is a smart product that serves more than one purpose. It attaches easily and features an adjustable angle that allows you to dial in a good fit on a variety of frames. The standout feature, though, is the inclusion of 0.5W LED lights, which are a great idea that improves safety in low-visibility conditions. The Defender iGlow X fits road tires that are 25mm or narrower.
Find a
CYCLING EVENTSpecialized Armadillo Elite
$55 7 of 9
If there's a time when you really don't want to get a flat, it's in a downpour. The Armadillo Elite features a new tread pattern designed to perform its best when weather conditions are at their worst. It's also among the most puncture-resistant tires available. What makes this tire even more impressive? With all of these features, they still offer plenty of performance. In fact, Specialized claims the Armadillo Elite's low rolling resistance puts it right on par with most racing tires.
Find a
CYCLING EVENTBontrager Pro Ride Wallet
$15.99 8 of 9
Whether you're carrying your valuables in a backpack or in the pocket of a jersey or jacket, if even a little bit of water manages to find its way through you'll be left with a big problem. The Ride Wallet from Bontrager is large enough to be compatible with most phone sizes and features a clear window that allows for easy operation without the need for unnecessary exposure to the elements. The additional compartments also provide a storage solution for credit cards, identification, money and other small essentials.
Discuss This Article