Ah, British Summertime. No sooner have the weather watchers pronounced that this year will be the hottest on record (again) when the forecast switches to say June is going be wet and rainy (again). Quelle surprise!
So for those of you who aren't going to let a little thing like wet weather stop you riding – because let's face it, if it did we'd hardly ever ride – then investing in a good waterproof jacket is a must. If you can save a little money on the cost along the way, all the better. It leaves more cash for your holidays!
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Gore Bike Wear Women's Power Gore-Tex Active Shell Jacket AW15 £184.99 £112.84
The Women's Power Gore-Tex Active Shell is a serious bit of kit for those who seriously love their cycling, and don't want to let a little inclement weather get in the way of their enjoyment. Designed to be lightweight, packable and very breathable, it's a road cycling jacket that means business. And it's also on price drop, which means the price decreases by 1% at midnight each night until the products sell out, or the offer ends. Worth a look we reckon.
Respro Hi-viz Hump Rucsac Cover Waterproof £35.99 £19.99
Keep your belongings dry with a waterproof bag cover. These ones from Respro combine a slightly contradictory camo print with highly reflective stripes. So long as it's waterproof, we can live with that.
Pearl Izumi Unisex P.r.o. Softshell Wxb Shoecover 2014 £79.99 £39.99
Having wet feet and wet shoes is unpleasant, particularly if you have to put said wet shoes back on your feet again. A pair of waterproof shoe covers will make all the difference, keeping your tootsies snug and dry. These Soft-shell covers from Pearl Izumi also feature reflective detailing to help you stand out while you pedal.
SealSkinz Waterproof Cycling Cap £25.00 £18.76
A waterproof cycling cap is the kind of item you never knew how much you needed until you get one. This option from SealSkinz is breathable, lightweight and not too bulky – and at such an affordable price you'd be kinda crazy not to.
Sugoi Zap Bike Jacket £99.99 £49.99
Granted it's summer and the days are long, but don't underestimate just how dark it can seem on the roads when the cloud cover is thick overhead. Combining waterproofing and a seriously bright reflective material, the Sugoi Zap bike jacket is entirely reflective, so there'll be no missing you on the roads.
Race Face Team Chute Waterproof MTB Jacket £169.96 £75.00
Hood, high collar, pit vents, media pocket – the Race Face Team Chute waterproof jacket for mountain biking has a lot of handy features. It's also heavily discounted. This is the upside; the downside is that it's only left in a size small. Still, it will make a proper bargain for someone.
Madison Flo Womens Waterproof Shorts £64.99 £58.49
A soggy chamois isn't much fun, so if you're mountain biking in wet weather a pair of waterproof shorts is a highly practical addition to your ride wardrobe. These women's specific shorts from Madison will keep the wet out, and are long enough and wide enough to fit over kneepads. You can thank us later.
Thule Pack 'n Pedal 48 Litre Large Panniers £100 £85
Whether you're commuting or touring, a waterproof pannier bag will ensure that your precious belongings arrive at your destination dry, safe and not sitting in a puddle of rainwater. The Pack'n'Pedal panniers from Thule are just such a beast, with a decent 48l of storage.
