Depending on where you live, spring showers can include hail, thundersnow, sleet and sheets of rain. Having the right gear turns an awful slog into a fun challenge. There have been a bunch of improvements in waterproof gear since pre-Perfect Catch fishermen fought the high sea elements for days at a time. Fabrics breathe better, seam-taping keeps water on the outside, and the technology holds up better no matter what mother nature throws at you. Here are 10 products that’ll keep you dry and comfortable while you get where you’re going.
Arc’teryx A2B Hardshell Blazer Jacket
Designed with bike commuters in mind, Arc’teryx’s Hardshell Blazer offers high-end technical performance thanks to a three-layer Gore-Tex construction. Hideable reflector tabs in the sleeves and back of the collar make you more visible and tuck away when you’re off the bike. Back venting helps release heat, so your sweat doesn’t make you wet. The jacket is fit is articulated for cyclists, so it doesn’t bunch up at your shoulders our elbows. Inside, the Gore-Tex fabric is soft. And the sophisticated styling means it’s a solid option for non-cyclists as well.
Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Barrier WxB MTB Shoe Cover
Your feet are the first part of your body that gets wet during rides in inclement weather, making the commute miserable. P.R.O. Barrier WxB fabric is waterproof and windproof, keeping the elements on the outside. Fleece keeps your feet cozy. Taped seams seal the deal. And kevlar on the bottom of the shoe cover ensures durability. Available in black and yellow, the latter are tough to miss even on dreary days.
Helly Hansen Herman boot
Helly Hansen was started in Norway in 1877 when sea captain Helly Juell Hansen began building gear to stay dry. On the outside, this boot is as simple as it is effective: the rubber boot is 100% waterproof. Inside, the EVA insole is similar to what you find in many running shoes, making the Herman comfortable, whether you’re pedaling on flat pedals (non-SPD) or walking.
Velomacchi Giro Backpack 35L
Built for motorcyclists, the Giro Backpack keeps the weight just off your shoulders, so the pack doesn’t move much, even when riding aggressively. With clips for bike lights and a slot for a water reservoir, it also works for urban cyclists and mountain bikers. High tech nylon fabric matched with a roll-top closure, similar to what you find on dry bags, make the bag waterproof. Also abrasion resistant, the bag will likely fare better than you if you go down.
Light & Motion Urban 1000 Trooper bike light
Just released in late March, the Urban 1000 produces 1000 lumens, to help you see the road. A pulsing option, as well as secondary side lights, help motorists see you. The only commuter light with an IP 67 rating, the Trooper is tested to withstand 30 submerged minutes. It’s also great to have around the house when the power goes out.
Lifeproof Nuud phone case
Tested to withstand an hour of underwater immersion of two meters for 60 minutes, the Nuud lets you use your phone on your commute with abandon. Even the camera and finger scan are available thanks to a transparent dust screen. And because wet phones can be slick, it’s drop-proof for heights of about six feet.
Showers Pass Waterproof Utility Backpack
Showers Pass built their whole company on providing rain gear. It shows with this pack. Adjustable hip and sternum straps help you fine-tune fit. A space running down the middle of the back padding enables heat to escape. 3M reflective trim aids in visibility and the heavy-duty coated nylon keeps the bag’s contents dry.
Mission Workshop The Division pant
If you’re looking for a great-looking chino to wear rain or shine, The Division is it. Four-way stretch fabric translates into yogic-like flexibility. And a DWR coating keeps you dry in all but the heaviest of storms.
Lululemon Storm Field jacket
Ideal for walking to the office or pedaling around in adverse conditions, the Storm Field is Lululemon’s most versatile jacket. The Glyde fabric is waterproof and the well-placed sealed seams keep moisture out. A stowable hood keeps your head dry. And the cuffs flip up to reveal reflective highlights.
Eddie Bauer Cloud Cap rain pants
Since the Cloud Cap packs into the pants own pocket, it’s easy to stash in a pack for surprise showers. Built from nylon and treated with an enhanced DWR treatment that undergoes twice as many washes as traditional DWR, they’re great for commuters who deal with rain on the regular. Adjustable cuffs make them easy to throw on, even if you’re already wearing shoes.
Kitsbow Trials Softshell Waterproof jacket
Beautiful and with all the bells and whistles, the Trials jacket is built by one of the most stylish mountain bike clothing brands in the world. A Rapha for the off-road set, the Trials is constructed from Polartec NeoShell fabric that’s not treated — instead, the design of the fabric keeps water out and never “washes out.” Forearm zips and a vent on the back help you shed heat. The Trials is as comfy as a soft shell while performing like a hardshell jacket.
Sugoi Metro jacket
Simple, straight-forward, and super functional, the Metro is a great value-based jacket. The front zip is sealed to keep out water and highlights on the sleeve keep you visible, even if you don’t go with the bright yellow version. The adjustable hood fits over bike helmets, too.
Meet the Regulus
Nixon’s Regulus watch — shockproof and water-resistant to 100 meters — is built to withstand tough terrain, whether you’re on dry land, high in the mountains or out at sea. Designed with input from special ops personnel, the minimal, 46mm case is made from durable, fiber-reinforced TR90 and the sturdy timepiece is equipped with dual chronographs as well as a five-year battery life. Learn More
