I've looked at a lot of the popular brands and just haven't found something that checks all my boxes. I want a rain coat that works well both on and off a bike, and is highly visible both day and night. Features I am looking for:
- Waterproof (duh)
- A hood (typically not worn while on the bike, but necessary for when I am off of it)
- Good venting/breathability
- Lightweight
- Long enough to cover my butt when on the bike
- Available in day-glow yellow (or another bright, fluorescent color that pops in daylight and dusky conditions)
- Has reflective elements for night-time visibility
- Easy to put on and take off (e.g. has a full front zipper)
Does anyone know of a mythical jacket that has all of these features? I've checked Rapha, Showers Pass, Cleverhood, Endura, Marmot, Albion, Altura, Patagonia, The North Face, Columbia, and countless others.
The best option I have found is the Albion Zoa rain shell and…it's completely sold out. Next best is probably the Showers Pass Ecolyte Elite, though the colors aren't quite as high-viz as I would like. The Marmot Mitre Peak also looks pretty good, but doesn't have any reflective elements.
by Calvinball05
6 Comments
Have you considered the clever hoodie? I think the rain capes are dorky AF but really effective rain protection on the bike.
I’ve been using a Marmot Minimalist goretex jacket for a few years, on and off the bike. It’s been totally bombproof. I haven’t cleaned it with techwash yet, but it’s still as waterproof as the day I bought it. The pit zips are nice on the bike (if it isn’t raining too hard) as it helps to not overheat and get air flowing through. I’ve figured out a way to sort of roll the hood up so it tucks between my helmet and neck, keeping water from going down the back. It’s very thin, which is nice to have the option of layering under. No reflective elements though.
Outdoor Research Foray II
Mountain Warehouse has some decent cheap options that may be worth a shot, like [this one.](https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/cadence-mens-waterproof-active-jacket-p55554.aspx/bright-yellow/)
Check the PROVIZ site.Â
You can easily add reflective elements to a jacket with paint, stickers, etc.