My neighbor asked me why I still ride in the rain

I was locking up outside my apartment in Portland yesterday, soaked from the ride home, and my neighbor Frank said, 'Man, you're still doing that? I'd just drive.' I mean, I always just thought of rain as part of the deal, you know? But him saying that out loud made me realize I've been putting up with being wet and cold for years without really thinking about it. Maybe I should finally get some real rain gear. What's the best waterproof jacket you guys have found that doesn't cost a fortune?

2 comments

2 Comments

ivan_cooper18d ago

You ever get so used to being miserable you forget you can fix it? I rode for years in a glorified trash bag that would just trap sweat instead of rain. Finally grabbed a basic Marmot PreCip on sale, and it was a game changer. It's not fancy, but it actually keeps the water out and lets some air in so you don't boil. Still get wet sometimes, but now it's my fault, not the jacket's.

davis.ivan18d ago

Know exactly what you mean. I wore this cheap plastic poncho for two whole seasons that would just turn into a personal sauna. Upgraded to a basic Columbia jacket and felt like an idiot for not doing it sooner. It's wild how you just accept being soaked and uncomfortable as normal.