RayonRandoZine No. 34 - The great outdoors magazine

Whether cycle touring in fine weather or commuting by bike all year, you do not let rain stop you.

But rain protection on a bike involves constraints that are difficult to reconcile:

• Rain exerts greater pressure on a cyclist's clothing than a hiker's. Moisture therefore penetrates faster.
• But wearing a “watertight” or thick garment means sweat cannot escape. When hiking, that is unpleasant. When commuting, arriving damp and “fragrant” is particularly unwelcome.
• The feeling of cold is also intensified by moisture and airflow. This calls for insulating layers in colder seasons. You must manage sweat condensation caused by the temperature difference between your body and the surrounding air.
• Hands and feet are particularly exposed, which can be painful.
• But you must protect your hands while retaining good dexterity.
• You must also protect your head without interfering with your helmet or visibility, particularly when turning your head.
• Finally, you need to protect yourself from rain while remaining clearly visible to others.