When I quit my job as a messenger, nine years ago, I promised myself that I would never again ride in cold rain. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy riding in the rain, if its warm. A summer rain shower is actually enjoyable, but after working all winter in freezing rain, I learned to hate being cold and wet.
After coming to work at the shop I decided to commute at least 4 days a week, which means riding in nasty weather. My solution was to make multiple changes. First, I needed a bike outfitted for all weather conditions. Second, I needed the proper apparel for rainy days.
The bike is my go anywhere, do anything Salsa Vaya3, which handles wet surfaces well because of its touring geometry and 32mm wide tires. I outfitted the bike with SKS P45 chromoplastic fenders to keep the water splatter under control. They look great and are very flexible, so they don’t bend or dent.
The rain gear I chose is the Outdoor Research Foray waterproof jacket and the Craft Bullet rain pants. I love them both. The jacket gives great coverage and is seam sealed to hold out the hardest downpour (like this morning). The cuffs are adjustable by using Velcro closures. The use of pit zips and pocket vents help keep over heating under control. The Craft Bullet pants are made of a tough waterproof fabric for durability. My favorite feature of the bullets are the Velcro straps that tightens the legs so they aren’t flapping in the wind or catching in the chain. The legs also have zippers so that you can remove the pants without taking off your shoes or adjusting the Velcro straps.
The final result? I rode to work today in a heavy downpour without getting wet (with the exception of my face). I didn’t have to have an extra outfit to change into and with the addition of Sugoi booties, I just removed my rain gear, changed out of my cycling shoes and without even changing my socks, I was ready to work.
