rain + cold commute

[lph]

This is not the answer you're hoping for... but basically:
wear wool,
ride fast,
suck it up
and hope you have a drying cupboard at work.

It works for me, but not very well...

[Grog]

A fender for your front wheel will keep your feet a lot more dry.

Thin layer glove + dishwashing gloves. The dishwashing gloves are pretty much windproof, and the layer keeps you warmer. Go for a size bigger than usual on the dishwashing gloves. (Plus, your hand signals will be very clear.)

Wool is good. I have a thin wool cap that fits under my helmet. It keeps my feet warmer. (No joke.)

A good-quality rain jacket is nice. Does not have to be cycling-specific, although that helps.

If it's really POURING I wear rain pants and gum boots with thick wool socks. Not very comfortable, but keeps my feet dry.

If it's really COLD I wear my winter boots, those that are designed for Montreal winters. I don't think you'll ever need that in Austin.

[tulip]

Keep your head warm. The rest of you will also be warmer.

Hi viz rain jacket is a must. Layer underneath--that's going to be trial and error to find out what works for you. But a few layers are better than one heavy layer.

Shoe covers help keep your feet warm and dry.

How far is your commute?

[Becky]

Fenders make a tremendous difference in keeping you dry from below. They help even if it's not raining, but the roads are wet.

I have some windproof and " breathable waterproof" socks by Seirus. They're neither totally waterproof or totally breathable, but they do make a big difference on wet or windy days.

Last but not least, a waterproof helmet cover can make a big difference. I have one by Louis Garneau that's nice, and I'm sure that Gore makes them as well.

[Onix]

Thanks guys. These are good tips.

Clarifying details: My commute is about 30-45 minutes each way. It will get colder in Austin at some point (or, at least, it usually does). But, never really colder than 30.

Helmet cover: good thought. Didn't know they had those. Makes sense

Front fender: didn't know these existed. Good to know.

Dish gloves: Never would have thought of that. Makes sense--- Definitely going to look into this!!


Ultimately, I'll probably just have to suck it up

But, it does get more complicated when I have to run errands in the day and commute several times-- Either have to put wet clothes back on, or carry multiple pairs!

Such is life, i suppose!

Thanks for your thoughts!