No matter how avid a cyclist one may be, there’s nothing that puts a person off a bike ride more than torrential rain. Many of us are immediately willing to switch up our commuting habits the moment even the slightest drizzle is forecasted, opting for the tube instead to remain dry and flu-free during the autumn and winter seasons.
Perennial British rain is incredibly frustrating for those of us who count on that daily cycle to and from the office for our main source of exercise, given that nine-to-five office jobs don’t usually lend much room for much healthy movement other than the odd absent-minded chair swivel.
Indeed, by the time we get home from a long slog, the last thing we want to do is engage in a miniature HIIT workout in the living room – but having a bike forces us to pedal up and down arduous hills all the way home, resulting in a well-earned relaxation session in front of the telly at the end of the day.
The best way to maintain that healthy dose of quotidian exercise during the colder, more rainy than usual months is to invest in all the necessary gear. We’re not talking about skin-tight lycra and clip-ins (unless, of course, that’s your preferred cycling uniform). The casual commuter is far better suited to a pair of waterproof galoshes, a Gore-Tex coated rain jacket or – better yet – entirely waterproof and windproof coveralls.
Think of the rather unstylish cycling accessory as offering short-term sartorial pain for long-term fashion gain. In protecting your office outfit from torrid elements in one protective swoop, you can simply shimmy out of your coveralls as soon as you step foot in your place of work. You’ll look as put-together as the moment you finished getting ready the very same morning, much to the awe of your rain-soaked and shivering colleagues.
We’ve rounded up a selection of the best unisex waterproof coveralls for cycling, as well as some additional wet-weather accessories to keep you dry during your two-wheeled commute. Shop the edit below.
Fort Men's 320 Flex Waterproof Coverall
- Waterproof rating: 10,000mm
Though technically geared towards men, this 10,000mm waterproof coverall is offered in sizes ranging from S-3XL. Unless you’re looking for a particularly snug fit, they’re a great unisex, protective solution for rainy commutes into the office. The coveralls are crafted from a durable, waterproof For-Tex fabric with welded seams to keep wind and rain out.
Buy now £27.95, Amazon
Women's Olesia Waterproof Suit
- Waterproof rating: 12,000mm
Sporty and oh-so-stylish, this green waterproof suit may look like two pieces, but they’re actually attached at the hip. Designed to withstand the most powerful downpours while offering full-body coverage, it’s coated in a breathable AquaDry membrane which keeps rain out and warmth in.
It’s also wind-resistant, stretch-proof and made partially from recycled plastic bottles – making it green in more ways than one. The size offering ranges from a UK 8-20, and the suit even has a helmet-compatible protective hood. Shop the men’s version here.
Buy now £90.00, Craghoppers
Night Visibility City Bike Rain Poncho 540
- Waterproof rating: 2,000mm
Packable and perfectly protective, this certified PPE poncho from Decathlon’s BTWN range keeps you visible in all conditions. It’s equipped with 100 per cent waterproof seams, reflective strips and an adjustable, helmet-compatible hood. It’s also got handy contact points at the legs and arms to prevent the poncho from riding up or getting caught in the wind (though Decathlon recommends against wearing the outwear during particularly windy weather).
Buy now £34.99, Decathlon
Coutyuyi Men's Rain Suit
- Waterproof rating: 8,000mm
Offered in an array of stylish hues, it’s worth spending the extra cash for a durable, long-lasting set of weatherproof gear. Coutyuyi’s fantastic storm-proof suit is a two-piece set which has been crafted with a highly waterproof nano polyester and has fully taped seams. It features mesh vents at the back for extra breathability, tightening cuffs for a firm fit and a built-in rain and wind visor.
Buy now £49.99, Amazon
33,000ft Men's Waterproof Rainsuit
- Waterproof rating: 5,000mm
Waterproof, breathable and highly rated by cycling enthusiasts across the UK, this packable set of rain-proof gear is a must-have winter accessory. It features a mesh lining for extra comfort, a hideaway hood and a half-zip leg for getting in and out in a jiffy. Offered in a size range of S-XXL.
Buy now £60.99, Amazon
Tribord Adult's sailing watch overalls
- Waterproof rating: 5,000mm
That’s right, we’re going so far as to recommend sailing overalls for your daily, rainy cycle to work. If you’re willing to go with the fashion faux pas, you’ll be delightfully dry after a horrendous rainy morning ride thanks to these unisex overalls. Complete with reinforced knees, flap pockets and a windproof membrane – simply pair with your favourite shower-proof jacket for ultimate protection.
Buy now £49.99, Decathlon
Additional waterproof accessories
Rains Rolltop Rucksack
Rains’ sleek and waterproof rucksack is the coolest commuter option out there. It features a rolltop design to keep your belongings as dry as possible and has a handy side zip the full length of the bag so you can grab your laptop without unwrapping the fastening.
Buy now £105.00, Rains
Mac In A Sac Origin Packable Waterproof Jacket
Nobody knows the importance of a waterproof jacket more than us Brits. Whether you're hitting a coastal holiday or a hike, it's a wardrobe essential. But when space is limited, size matters.
The Mac In A Sac jackets are so convenient to pack away. They roll up into a tiny ball the size of your hand and weigh between 200-300g. The design is simple to keep it lightweight: It has two zipped pockets, elasticated cuffs, a drawcord adjustable hem and a rollable hood, which is all you need to fight the elements. They come in more than 30 colours, so take your pick.
Buy now £37.50, Amazon
Origin Packable Waterproof Overtrousers
- Waterproof rating: 10,000mm
Beloved for producing the original packable waterproof anorak, Mac in a Sac is also home to an array of other durable, weather-proof clothing covers.
The Origin overtrousers, just like the brand’s other hero product, come in a handy drawstring bag that is slightly bigger than the average palm. Highly waterproof up to 10,000mm with fully taped seams, an elasticated waist, Velcro adjustable legs and reflective detailing, the 100 per cent polyester trousers are a value-for-money must-have for hiking enthusiasts. The unisex overtrousers are available in three neutral hues with a relaxed fit and a breathable, 8,000gsm finish.
Buy now £34.98, Amazon
Hoka Challenger 7 Gore-Tex
Hoka is super popular among runners because of the stacked height of the sole, which absorbs shock and eases pressure on the joints. So you know they’re comfy. If you’re not sure where your day will take you, this pair are ideal as they’re designed for both trail and on-road activities. And, as for their waterproof creds, the Gore-Tex finish means they’re ready for any eventuality, while the lugs on the sole mean they’ve got excellent grip too. Choose the Challenger 7s in all black for a sleek finish to outdoor looks.
Buy now £150.00, Hoka
66°North Kría Long Shell Coat
If you’re a trench lover, this longline waist-cinched coat from 66°North combines your favourite silhouette with wind-stopping and waterproof fabric. Definitely the chic way to do Gore-Tex.
Buy now £590.00, 66°North
