The Good Cyclist's Guide To Bad-Weather Riding

When the skies turn dark and unleash their worst, here’s how to keep on riding – as safely and comfortably as possible…

- Nick Soldinger

RIDING IN THE RAIN

Riding in heavy rain is something that’salmost inevitable if you’re a cyclistin this country. But by preparing properly you can make sure that you reduce the impact of wet weather on your cycling enjoyment. Preparation is the key. Although it’s nigh-on impossible to stay completely dry when you’re riding in the rain, there are a few essential bits of kit you can use that will go a long way to ensuring you don’t end up soggy and soaked-through.

We’ll start with your head because a good cycling cap is perhaps the most underrated (and relatively inexpensive) item when it comes to combatting wet and cold weather. Worn under your helmet, not only will it keep water out of your eyes, it will also provide insulation for your head, keeping rain water out and your head heated. Assos’s RainCap S7 (£34.99, wiggle.co.uk) is a superb option, as is Gore’s Bike Wear 30th Equipe Gore-Tex Cap (£35.99, goreappel.co.uk) although we admit it’s not got the snappiest name.