The Feeling I Get When I Ride My Bike on Rainy Days
Riding in the Rain: Why I Keep Doing It at 70 (And the Gear That Keeps Me Safe)
🌧️ Top Rain Riding Essentials
These are the items you can rely on whenever the clouds open up. They keep you dry, warm, and highly visible—especially important as a senior cyclist.
- Waterproof Cycling Jacket — a game changer for staying dry without overheating.
- Waterproof Shoe Covers — warm feet = longer, safer rides.
- Waterproof Winter Gloves — wet hands lose dexterity fast.
- Cycling Rain Pants — optional, but fantastic in cold rain.
Most people see gray skies as a reason to cancel a ride. Rain means rearranged plans and excuses. But for me, when the clouds open up, I don’t feel trapped—I feel invited.
Rain doesn’t just test my body. It sharpens my senses and focuses my mind in a way a sunny ride never could.
What To Rely On When You Ride in the Rain
These aren’t “rain hacks.” They’re top rated items that will keep you safe and comfortable when the weather turns on me.
These links help keep this one-man, ad-free blog alive.
🔦 Visibility Gear That Matters Most in the Rain
Rain is where visibility gear earns its keep. If you only upgrade one thing—make it your lights.
- Garmin Varia Radar Tail Light — unbeatable in rain, fog, dusk, and gray-sky conditions. My next upgrade.
- High-Lumen Front Light — cuts through rain and lets drivers see you sooner.
- Clip-On Fenders — keep the spray down and visibility up. Great for commuters.
The First Drops: The Test
Cold drops hit my helmet, streak across my glasses, and work their way into gloves and shoes. It’s tempting to turn back. But once I commit, the hesitation disappears.
The rhythm of the rain syncs with the spin of my legs. Everything else fades away.
The Quiet Beauty of Rain Rides
Cars thin out. Trails empty. The world gets quiet. All I hear is the hiss of tires slicing wet pavement and the soft percussion of rain on my jacket.
There’s a raw honesty in those moments—no distractions, no perfection. Just grit, rhythm, breath, and motion.
The Hard Parts Matter Too
Rain rides are uncomfortable. Drops sting at speed. Puddles hide hazards. Feet squish. Fingers go numb. Every climb feels heavier than usual.
But that’s the part that matters. That’s the part that teaches you something.
Why I Keep Coming Back
Every soaked mile teaches the same lesson: beauty lives inside discomfort. The rain demands commitment—and rewards it with clarity, grit, and peace.
When the skies darken and the roads shine like mirrors, I don’t see a reason to quit. I see a reason to go.
🔥 Premium Upgrades:
These are long-term investments that improve comfort and safety year-round—rain or shine.
Your Turn
Have you ever ridden in the rain? Did it feel miserable—or did it change the way you ride? Drop your story in the comments. I’d love to hear how you handle those soaked miles.
FAQ: Cycling in the Rain
Is it safe to ride a bike in the rain?
Yes—if you slow down, increase your visibility, and use proper lights. Painted lines, metal surfaces, and puddles require caution.
Do bike tires slip more on wet roads?
A little, but modern tires grip surprisingly well. The danger is sudden moves—smooth, steady inputs keep you upright.
How do I stay dry when cycling in the rain?
A breathable waterproof jacket and shoe covers make the biggest difference. Gloves matter a lot more than people think.
Should I use fenders?
Absolutely. Even clip-on fenders reduce spray and make riding dramatically more comfortable.
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