If you’re a regular bike commuter you’ll need to figure out how to you’ll go about cycling in the rain. If it’s a poncho that’s made for cycling, and providing your journey is fairly moderate, then yes it is. Some ponchos will offer more comfort with extra features, but they generally give greater protection from the rain. However, in extreme conditions with high winds, this is not always the case. So, imagine wearing something light, breathable, totally rainproof and suitable for cold and warm weather alike. That’s where the waterproof poncho comes in. Also known as a rain cape, this is a loose-fitting piece of waterproof fabric with a hood that protects most of your body from the rain. It will last longer than other cheaper brands, actually does it’s job, and you look good. What really sold me on this poncho is that I can use it not only for cycling, but on other rainy adventures. I started researching the various poncho’s and rain capes on the market, but settled The People’s Poncho. Their ponchos were stylish, made for cycling, and apparently would keep me dry. The only way to know if it lived up to the hype was to buy one.

of the Best Cycling Rain Capes • Bicycle 2 Work 5 of the Best Cycling Rain Capes • Bicycle 2 Work

It’s available in an impressive ten colours, the brightest being ‘orange’. And the ‘universe’ colour option cannot be ignored – unique, strange and frankly, inspired. In regards to functionality, it features waterproof zippers; magnetic closures that snap shut at armholes, and sturdy velcro trim tabs. There will be a day as a bike commuter when you’ll need to ride in the rain. When the rain comes you’ll want to be prepared! Urbane was selling the Brooks rain cape, but we didn’t like it, so we headed to The Spacing Store to try on the Cleverhoods. (Note: Urbane now sells AGU rain ponchos that look pretty good, but we haven’t tried those yet.)

More than anything it felt normal riding with the poncho on. The waistband did its job to keep the poncho covering my body, and the hood kept on my head. Available in three colours, including ‘Indian red’ and the (very visible) ‘lemon’, there’s also no doubt that you’ll be seen in murky conditions. It is miserable finding yourself caught in the rain with nothing to protect you from getting wet. One option for staying dry while on a rainy day is to invest in a proper cycling rain cape.

People’s Poncho Enjoying the rain with The People’s Poncho

The Cleverhood rain cape comes with a fitted hood that can be worn under a bike helmet. It also has elastic thumb loops to keep it secure while bike riding. They do a great job of keeping the cape over your hands and handlebars as you’re riding around. The Cons of this Cape This really is a superior garment, which is reflected in the price. Not only does it offer exceptional quality, but you’ll look great, too.

A traditional poncho won’t keep your arms protected while you hold onto a bike’s handlebars. Cycling rain capes are created to keep even your arms and hands dry when you reach for the handlebars.