The much-awaited Monsoon has finally beckoned its arrival on the busy streets of Mumbai. The steamy asphalt with hot and dry climate had shunned most of us to remain indoors.
With the drizzle followed by a few showers, the city seems to be blessed by the rain gods. These rains have certainly been a motivation for the cyclist as the excruciating heat just didn’t allow them to ride.
However, with the rains, comes a new concern. And before it gets you in trouble it’s always great to deal beforehand. This article will enlighten you on how to dress up for cycling in the rains.
It’s almost impossible to stay completely dry during Monsoon Cycling. While you’re riding in wet conditions or under heavy showers.
Monsoons are always going to be uncomfortable and hence you need to have a practical approach.
Overdressing for Monsoon Cycling can make you sweat and it’s as good as getting wet so choose wisely. If you can’t stay dry in the rain at least try staying warm.
Take a look at some of the tips that can help you get through Monsoon Cycling:
Skincare:
It all depends on how long you’re planning to ride and whether it’s cold or warm. Despite the skin’s waterproof quality, it cannot prevent itself from chaffing. Don’t forget to apply a moisturizer or a lotion which will prevent chaffing. Remember to coat yourself completely before getting out for a ride.
Start with your head: it’s advisable to wear a cap inside your helmet. This provides you with that extra insulation during the monsoon. The cap also keeps the water off your eyes.
Choose the right shades:
With the rain reducing the visibility opt for wiser shades like the transparent, yellow or orange ones. In poor visibility, yellow, orange or transparent can be very useful with the rain pouring down heavily.
Also, read Monsoon bicycle maintenance.
Dress for the occasion:
In this season, avoid dark coloured attire as visibility reduces with the rains. Opt for fluorescent ones instead which are also trendy these days. Your motto for the rain should be to be safe and be seen.
Torso:
Start with a thin layer of wicking followed by a jersey (long sleeves preferable if it’s cold). Over your jersey, wear a rain jacket which is breathable water resistant.
Leg protection:
Covering your legs is more of a personal choice you can either wear your cycling shorts covered with rain pants. This helps to keep the cold away and maintain the temperature which allows free pedalling. But at the same time, the rain pants slow you down and make you feel heavy.
If you choose to wear both, make sure the material breathes and get a reflective band to put around your ankles to keep the pant legs from getting caught in your chain. It’s always good to experiment and see what suits you best.
Protect your feet:
Wearing the appropriate shoes will give you a comfortable ride. Prevent shoes which tend to hold water in your shoes and get heavy. They can make your feet smell and chaff at the same time.
Also, avoid shoes which slip off while pedalling. Neoprene shoe covers are the best when it comes to protection from the rains. They are available in thin as well as thick material.
Editor: Tracy Alvares
