Waterproof Clothing

[Gordon Stewart]

I do a 20 mile commute to work by bike all year round. Today (Scottish Summer???) I cycled in some of the heaviest rain I can remember. It was bouncing off the ground for near enough the entire journey home. Sadly, I discovered that my waterproof cycling jacket was no longer waterproof. In fact, it let in almost everywhere, not just the seams. My existing jacket has been reproofed with the wash in proofer but it now seems only to be shower proof.

So, thinking that this is the time to get prepared for the wild Autumn / Winter does anyone have any suggestions for good waterproofs? My last jacket only cost about £30/£40. Is it worthwhile paying £200+ for Goretex or similar?

 

[tillson]

If you have somewhere to shower and dry your clothing at work, I wouldn't bother investing in so called breathable waterproof clothing. My experience is that you either get wet from the rain or from sweating inside a waterproof garment. There isn't sufficient airflow to cool you.

Just get wet through, shower at work / home and dry your cycling gear off on a radiator or outside on a fence if it's summer. I've grown to quite like getting a soaking whilst cycling.

 

[SteveRuss]

So, thinking that this is the time to get prepared for the wild Autumn / Winter does anyone have any suggestions for good waterproofs? My last jacket only cost about £30/£40. Is it worthwhile paying £200+ for Goretex or similar?

I bought a Mountain Equipment Pamir jacket a few years back. It's been amazingly good. I've never reproofed it or cleaned it in any way and it's never let a single drop in, anywhere.

They are generally around £250 but I got mine for £150 in a sale. Mountain Equipment are considered one of the upper premium outdoor brands and is British as well. I couldn't recommend it more to be honest...