Ultimate Rain Gear Guide For Biking In The Rain (March, 2023)

Updated on March 14, 2023

People love using bikes in their daily lives for going to work or grocery shopping. They are convenient and cost-efficient when compared with other means of transportation. When traveling on a bike even for the shortest distance, you have to be prepared for all kinds of weather conditions to protect yourself. I will be discussing the ultimate rain gear guide for biking in the rain in today’s article.

You can follow all the instructions and product recommendations given down below to save yourself from the rain. The pros and cons of each product are also mentioned at the end so you can choose easily. All of these items are important and worth your consideration. I hope that all of the gear will help you reach home safely even during heavy rainfall.

Ultimate Rain Gear Guide For Biking In The Rain

If you like riding a bike every season, you have to make sure to protect yourself and the bike from the rain. A detailed rain gear guide for biking in the rain is discussed below along with recommendations for your ease. You can read all the information on how to stay dry during the rain and where to invest your money. All of the products will help you enjoy the rain without damaging the bike from the water.

Seat Cover

First and the most important thing is to invest in a seat cover to keep it dry. There are times when you have to park the bike outside in the parking area for your pharmacy or grocery runs. If the seat of the bike gets wet in the rain, it will soak all the water and eventually will make you wet as well. To protect the seat from water or even the sun, you should definitely invest in a seat cover.

A waterproof seat cover will help the seat stay dry underneath. You can remove the cover while sitting on the seat or use a dry towel to get rid of the water on the cover. After trying out a few waterproof seat covers, I found the best one for you. It is affordable and ensures that the seat remains dry underneath.

PAMASE Waterproof Bike Seat Rain Cover

The PAMASE Waterproof Bike Seat Rain Cover is best for covering the seat of your bike during rainfall. It is manufactured with high-quality material that is waterproof and ensures that not a single drop of water goes inside. The main reason that I opted for this rain cover amongst all the other options in the market is that it can be used with almost all bikes. You do not have to buy a new seat cover in case you change the old seat.

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This waterproof seat cover has a thick layer of PVC that makes it ideal for use in the rain. It is an affordable option for all the people out there and comes with a string. This string can help you fix the cover onto the seat so that water does not find its way inside. Although this is made with a durable fabric but has flexibility so you can easily fix it on the seat. You do not have to worry about the harmful sun rays as the cover provides protection from it too.

The PAMASE Waterproof Bike Seat Rain Cover comes in a pack of two. Getting two covers at such a decent price is a steal. This cover can be used 24/7 to protect the seat underneath. It is tear resistant and stays in good condition for years. Hence if you like covering long distances on your bike, then this waterproof seat cover can be your best bet.

Pros

• Comes in a pack of two
• Has thick PVC coating
• Durable yet elastic

Cons

• Might get loose

The PAMASE Waterproof Bike Seat Rain Cover is high quality that fits almost all different bicycle seats. This is made with durable material but has flexibility. It comes in a pack of two covers and is black in color. The only downside of this affordable seat cover is that it might get loose with time because of flexibility.

Raining Coat/Poncho

The weather can be unpredictable so it is best if you go out prepared on a bike ride. Carrying a raincoat or poncho when riding a bike can save you from great trouble. This can save all your clothes and the bike too from the water. It will keep you dry during heavy rainfall and ensures that your clothes do not soak.

You can use a raincoat or a waterproof jacket but a poncho can cover a wider area. I have mentioned the best rain poncho down below so you can have an idea of where to invest your money. This will make sure you stay dry and enjoy the weather rather than getting wet and dirty.

SaphiRose Rain Poncho Jacket Coat

The SaphiRose Rain Poncho Jacket Coat is the best option if you want to protect yourself from the rain. You can get covered by wearing this poncho when riding a bike. It is available in 34 shades so you have a great variety in terms of color. Unlike a waterproof jacket, this is long in length and covers more area too. This comes with a zipper so you can put it on and off easily. It can be used both by men and women and is made with polyester.

When compared with other rain ponchos available in the market, this is an affordable option but is made with high quality. It is made with tear-resistant and wrinkle-free material which means that you can wear this on the go. This has a long length and will eventually cover you till the knees if you have a medium height. A string can also be observed so you can fit this according to your size.

 

The SaphiRose Rain Poncho Jacket Coat will even cover the seat and your backpack. The hood is adjustable as it has a string on the front. As this poncho is made with polyester, you do not have to worry about getting it torn. Hence you can go on a bike tour without worrying about encountering the rain if you carry this poncho with you.

Pros

• Made with polyester
• Does not wrinkles
• Comes with a zip

Cons

• Might be loose

The SaphiRose Rain Poncho Jacket Coat is a good option for all the people who like taking tours on the bike. It ensures protection from the rain and protects you to the knees. This is manufactured with 100% polyester that helps you stay dry. However, this jacket has a loose fit which might irritate some people during a bike ride.

Waterproof Backpack

A waterproof backpack should be part of your ultimate rain gear guide when riding the bike in the rain. Bikes do not have enough capacity to carry your stuff so you have to carry a backpack. It is best to invest your money in a waterproof backpack to protect your stuff from water. Most of the backpacks are manufactured with cloth which allows the water in. It is completely useless to carry such a bag in the rain.

A good quality waterproof backpack will work for years if used with care. You can invest your money in a backpack to carry all your stuff without getting it damaged by rainwater. After searching the internet for hours, I found the best backpack for you that ensures protection from the rain. This is easy to carry and has a decent space capacity too.

BackSak Waterproof Floating Backpack

The BackSak Waterproof Floating Backpack can be your savior when you want to go on biking tours around the city. This can help you travel with all your essentials and provides protection from the rain too. Although a rain poncho can cover your backpack, you should opt for this to be on the safe side. Heavy rainfall might end up damaging the poncho but this backpack will make sure to protect all your stuff from the water.

This is a compact backpack that is available in ten different shades. You can purchase some solids or opt for some colorful options too. When I talk about the reliability of this backpack, it is manufactured with 500-denier PVC that protects all your items. Not a drop of rainwater can enter the bag even from the sides with the zipper. You can close this backpack from the top or even the side.

The BackSak Waterproof Floating Backpack comes with straps like the usual bags but is smaller in size. You can store all your important cards, wallet, and even your cell phone in the side pockets to protect them from the rain. Although this comes in two sizes, it is extremely expensive. If you like spending money on your gear for biking in the rain, then this waterproof backpack should be your first pick.

Pros

• Comes with a vinyl lining
• Has ten different shades
• Compact and lightweight bag

Cons

• Expensive than other backpacks

The BackSak Waterproof Floating Backpack can help you carry all your stuff and protect it from the rain too. Although this looks small in size, it has a decent capacity and does not add up to weight as well. Even if you encounter rain on your way to work, it can keep all your important stuff safe. However, this is extremely expensive and might be out of budget for most people.

Mud Guards/Bike Fenders

You can expect splashes of dirty water on your clothes when riding the bike in the rain. Using mud guards or bike fenders is very much important to save your clothes from dirty water. Even if you wear a waterproof poncho, you will end up getting yourself wet if the tires do not have fenders. You can stop and wait at the roadside for the rain to get slow or stop completely but the roads will still have water for hours.

Riding the bike soon after it rained will direct the water to your clothes. Using the bike fenders or also known as mud guards is important which is why I have mentioned the best one down below. This will help you stay clean and dry as it stops the water from coming at you. I highly recommend these fenders and you will love using them after your first ride on the wet roads.

SKSAE Raceblade Pro Bicycle Fenders

The SKSAE Raceblade Pro Bicycle Fenders can be your ultimate savior after the rain. The water remains on the road for hours even after the rain has stopped which is why these fenders are important to install. They come in black color and are made with high quality. You cannot doubt the reliability as these are manufactured with high-grade plastic. These come in two sizes and you can purchase them according to the width of the tires.

They can be bent to fix according to the tires and have rubber straps. You can attach these straps with the bike’s frame so these fenders stay in place even when you take a ride during the rain. Even after coming in contact with the water, these fenders will stay fixed at their place to protect your clothes. They come in black color and weigh almost 365 grams.

The SKSAE Raceblade Pro Bicycle Fenders are easy to install. They do not have a complicated installation which makes them popular among the bikers. When compared with other fenders available on the market, these have a decent size which is neither too big nor too small. It protects the bike’s frame and your clothes which is pretty much the purpose of using them. I recommend using these fenders when you like biking around in your town even when it rains.

Pros

• Easy installation
• Adjustable straps for fit
• Made with high-grade plastic

Cons

• No color options

The SKSAE Raceblade Pro Bicycle Fenders are easy to install and take off. This is what makes them popular amongst the bikers who like riding in the rain. These are made with high-quality plastic that protects the frame and stops the rainwater too. The only downside of these fenders is that they are available in black color only.

Quick Dry Pants

As mentioned above, a raincoat or a waterproof poncho can save you from rainwater when riding a bike. You have to take care of your legs as the chances are high that your pants may get wet due to the water splashes. The floating rain poncho does not cover your lower leg area when you are sitting on a bike. It is necessary to invest in waterproof or quick dry pants for the days when you expect rain on your way.

You might get confused as a wide variety of pants are available on the market for the bikers but buying the one that actually stays dry can be tricky. I tried a few quick dry pants and listed the best one below for your help. This is not completely waterproof but makes sure the water dries within a few minutes.

INBIKE Fleece Windproof Thermal Pant

The INBIKE Fleece Windproof Thermal Pant can help you ride a bicycle in the rain because it is water resistant. It will get wet but once the rain stops, these thermal pant will dry within a few minutes. Even though this pant is made with fleece material and is not appropriate for summer but you can use this on a rainy day. This comes in black color, can be used by both males and females, and has different sizes too.

This windproof thermal pant is made with 100% polyester that does not absorb water completely. It is a breathable pant that allows air circulation as a result of which it dries quickly. This is made with stretchable material so you can feel comfortable while riding the bike and that too in the rain. It has reflective stripes on the sides which makes it perfect for wearing at night time on the roads.

The INBIKE Fleece Windproof Thermal Pant is elastic and tear-resistant. You do not have to worry about the material even though it gets wet more often. This is manufactured with extreme detailing and feels warm and cozy. You can carry this pant in your backpack to save yourself from rainwater and dirty splashes after the rain when coming back from the office. A combination of this pant with a poncho can save you from getting drenched in water.

Pros

• Breathable thermal pant
• Stretchable yet tear resistant
• Quick drying material

Cons

• Not appropriate for summers

The INBIKE Fleece Windproof Thermal Pant is one of the best products to add to your gear when you plan on cruising around in the rain. This has a quick drying material that helps you stay dry even after it rains. The material of this INBIKE pant is comfortable and soft to wear. However, this is a breathable pant but might not be appropriate for use in the summertime.

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Shoe Protector

Shoes are the most exposed item when you bike around in the rain. These can tear off quickly if you do not take care of them. Not all the shoes that you wear in your daily routine are waterproof or water-resistant. If you like roaming around on your bike even when it rains, you should use a shoe protector to save your feet from getting wet. Leather or mesh shoes are porous and will allow the water particles inside.

Shoe protectors will form a protective layer on your shoes so you do not have to worry about them getting damaged. A lot of shoe protector sprays are present in the market but I have mentioned the best and most affordable option for you. This works well and keeps your shoes in good condition throughout.

Tarrago Hightech Nano Protector Spray

The Tarrago Hightech Nano Protector Spray is water and stain-proof. This will make sure that all your shoes stay clean and safe from water damage. You can carry this spray can in your backpack and use it when in need. For instance, when you are heading out and it starts raining, you can simply spray these on your leather boots so the water does not get in. This is a great product for the days when you encounter rain when biking to work.

Although this spray forms a protective layer on the shoes but allows the inflow and outflow of the air. The feet won’t feel sticky or sweaty inside your shoes after using this spray. This is an affordable way of protecting the shoes from getting damaged during the rain. You cannot just change your shoes every time they get wet when you ride the bike during the rain.

The Tarrago Hightech Nano Protector Spray should be added to your gear when you use your bike in the rain too. This has a neutral color so you can use it on different pairs of shoes. Using shoe covers can be dangerous as they might slip so you can use regular shoes and protect them by using the protection spray.

Pros

• Comes in a neutral color
• Forms a protective layer
• Allows air circulation

Cons

• Might finish quickly

The Tarrago Hightech Nano Protector Spray can help you ride and protect your shoes at the same time. This forms a thin protective layer that does not allow water to pass in even when the shoes get wet. The air circulation can be done and the spray comes out in a neutral color. The only downside of using this spray is that it might finish off quickly if used regularly.

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Waterproof Gloves

I have discussed everything that can cover you from head to toe when you plan on riding the bike during the rain except for your hands. Waterproof gloves are very much important to add to your everyday gear because they help you hold the handle and balance yourself on the bike. It will be a safety concern if you ride your bike with wet hands. You can lose your balance and end up with a serious injury.

You cannot just use any pair of gloves while riding the bike while it rains. A pair of gloves that are made with polyester should be preferred. These will be waterproof and keep your hands dry when you hold the handle. I have mentioned the best waterproof gloves down below so you can have an idea about what to use. This will keep your hands safe and dry throughout your rides in the rain.

SEALSKINZ Waterproof Dragon Eye Gloves

The SEALSKINZ Waterproof Dragon Eye Gloves are an important product that should be there in your gear for days when you bike in the rain. These are made with a combination of three different materials that make them warm and cozy. Nylon, polyurethane, and polyester are used in manufacturing which makes them 100% waterproof. Your hands might get cold during the rainy season so these are the best way to keep them warm and cozy even in the rain.

These gloves come in two different shades so you can purchase them according to your personal preference. A stick-on strap is present at the wrist area that is used to fit the glove nicely onto your hand to avoid slipping. Although this pair is thick as three different materials are used in the making, these do not hinder the functionality of the fingers. You can get five sizes of these SEALSKINZ gloves according to the size of your hand.

These Waterproof Dragon Eye Gloves by SEALSKINZ have different prices according to the sizes. The thumb wiper is present for you to clean the handle and hold it firmly to maintain your grip. Hence it is recommended to invest in good quality waterproof gloves because these can have a direct impact on your safety. I highly recommend using this pair whenever you encounter rain and need your hands to stay dry and functional.

Pros

• Made with three materials
• 100% waterproof gloves
• Thumb wiper present
• Five sizes available

Cons

• Highly-priced gloves

The SEALSKINZ Waterproof Dragon Eye Gloves are made with three different materials so they work according to the expectations in heavy rainfall. These will help you maintain the grip on the handle as a thumb wiper is present for your help. You can buy them in five sizes according to your hand. However, these have everything that one might want in their gloves but are high-priced. This makes them out of range for most of the bikers who are new and on a limited budget.

FAQs

What should I wear on a rainy bike ride?

It is very much important to carry some of the important gear when you plan on riding the bike in the rain. You should keep a waterproof seat cover, a rain poncho, and shoe protector, etc to save yourself from getting wet. All these products can be carried in a waterproof backpack that has a decent capacity.

How should I prepare for my bike in the rain?

You should always put on a waterproof seat cover and mug guards or fenders to protect the bike when going out in the rain. Both of these will help you stay clean and dry even when riding in the rain. The seat cover protects the seat from getting wet whereas the mud guards save you from water splashes.

How long can a bike be in rain?

You can leave your bike out in the rain for almost 24 hours. Initially, you won’t notice any damage but after a few days, you will observe the frame will begin to rust. Hence it is best if you park your bike somewhere safe and dry so it can work well for a good amount of time.

Will my bike rust if I ride in the rain?

Yes, your bike will start rusting after a specific time period when you ride it in the rain. You have to take care of the chain and the frame as these two are more likely to get rust because of constant interaction with the water. It is recommended not to ride in the rain but if you do, make sure to protect the frame and the chain from water.

Is it harder to ride a bike in the rain?

Yes, it is hard to ride a bike in the rain because you might lose grip and end up slipping on the ground. The handle is wet and so are your hands which can result in imbalance and you can slip. Furthermore, the ground when wet is slippery and the chances of slipping on the wet road are more. Hence you have to be extremely careful if you want to ride a bike in the rain.

Conclusion

A detailed article on the ultimate rain gear guide for biking in the rain is discussed for your help. You should read all the information carefully and invest in the gear that is mentioned above. Some of the products have a direct impact on your and the bike’s safety so you should definitely consider purchasing them. You can use all the gear and enjoy a ride on the bike in the rain without getting wet. I hope this article has provided you with all the information about the gears that are important for riding in the rain.