Synthetic Exceptions: Rainlegs

As much as I hate to admit it, I'm heavily dependent on synthetic raingear for long distance cycling. Wool forms my core base layer, of course, but it's a rare day in March, April or May when I'm not carrying a Showers Pass rain jacket and Rainlegs on rides longer than 4o miles.

For the curious, Rainlegs are lightweight, waterproof cycling chaps. What's nice about Rainlegs is that you can easily fit them over bulky, everyday clothing using a multi-point, velcro and snap-closure system. Also, because Rainlegs only cover the tops of the legs, they ventilate well. For this reason, I think Rainlegs should consider offering a more durable, waxed cotton version for slower-moving commutes and general town use. I'm offering my services as a field tester.

Since I started wearing Rainlegs, however, the company has developed some more questionable spin-offs including Rainlegs jeans.

See the company webpage for more detailed operating instructions.

Flattened

Rolled

Available in the US through Clever Cycles or Wallingford Bicycle Parts.

Shopping from the archives: Carradice Duxbax and Burley rain gear

A wintery May has forced us to shop from the home archives for our Spring cycling ensembles. My usual heavy rotation of heavyweight Barbour coats has been exchanged for the simple, "breathable" construction of a Carradice Duxback cycling jacket (discontinued). Sara is opting more for the sheriff's work crew, hi-vis daylight yellow look of a Burley rain suit (also discontinued).

Geeky Rain Garb

This season, I've pledged to do a full randonneuring series--from a 200k ride in March to a 1000k in June. Not sure if I'll make it past the 300k but I'm trying to train and log as many miles now despite dark and chilly February conditions. Out in the rain today, I put my full wet weather costume to the test: rainlegs, burley booties, a Nigel Smythe waterproof country bag, Showers Pass jacket and a pink shower cap to protect my beloved brooks leather saddle. Fueled by a Hideaway potato flour donut, I took off on a gentle 28 mile loop. After two hours of steady rain riding, I was pleased to note that my usual wet weather weak points were ok: legs and feet and torso were all dry and Nigel Smythe bag only showed a small, quarter sized leak on the inside flap (no harm to the Hideaway loaf inside). I'm not excited about riding in the rain but now it might come down to managing low grade matters like moisture build up on my lenses or finding the perfect balance between exposed/unexposed skin, opened and closed zippers. Question: will garb dry out and recover in time for tomorrow's ride: a 50 mile trek out to the Lorane store and back.

For what it's worthy, Jean Arthur is a delight. Watching her now in Only Angels Have Wings, I'm confident Arthur would make a terrific training partner or brevet organizer (her ride controls would feature steaks, whiskey and a bit of upright piano playing).