Commuting - New Rain Cape.

I just got this today, I haven't used it even though it was just raining, I just haven't been out on my bike. It seems like it will work out ok, it will probably catch plenty of wind so I can't probably go that fast, It his halfway seam taped in the more important area, (shoulders, neck), it was $10

Anyone else uses any of these?

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You can also see my new White Ortlieb Panniers

After you get some use, I'd be interested in hearing how it compares to a jacket. Seems like it would breathe better, but also feel more awkward.

I've used both. The cape (mine is a $30 Campmor job.) catches a lot of wind and -- if looks count here -- looks pretty dorky. On the plus side, it is very nice for warmer weather, since there is a great air flow under it. I've taken to riding without the hood though, as that generates more moisture within than without.

The jacket (from J&G) is better suited to colder weather and it looks more "normal". You do sweat tremendously however -- even in cold weather and I'm not sure that the "breathable" jackets are much better. If the jacket has pit zips, there is some air flow which mitigates against sweat.

Neither version does a whole lot for your shoes, however.

I've used both. The cape (mine is a $30 Campmor job.) catches a lot of wind and -- if looks count here -- looks pretty dorky. On the plus side, it is very nice for warmer weather, since there is a great air flow under it. I've taken to riding without the hood though, as that generates more moisture within than without.

Neither version does a whole lot for your shoes, however.

I got it in hopes that it would get airflow, i know it will look super dorky, at this point, dorky is cool,

I do need to figure out something for my shoes, I like just riding in sambas, and the other day, I made a mistake my riding though a big long puddle with one pedal down not thinking, that shoe was wet for a day

I have used a hiking hat and a riding coat. I found that combination to be the best if it is raining heavily. the riding coat can be wrapped on my feet which provides nice protection. If I do not wear anything more than a t-shirt underneath, I do not sweat much.

Biggest problem is that those coats are quite heavy so they are pain to store/carry around.

Hello,Yes I use the AGU nylon cape,and the Carradice waxed cotton cape.They both have a strap that ties around your waist,and loops for your thumbs to hold the front still.I prefer them to any jacket.I ride year round and the capes are not bad when its windy.The carradice flaps less,because of the heavier matierial.There is another design which has sleeves,mainly from the French company decathlon.I like the "sleeveles" type,as you don`t even need gloves.I would use some knee length spats with the cape for 100% coverage.

Where did you get a cape for $10?

a small shop in Portland, called The Monkey King, They sell a lot of Nic Nacs, no bike shops I have seen carry capes,

The Cape isn't super quality but I bet it will work out, and when it doest start getting bet, I can uses it as a pattern, and I can figure how to sew my own.

Does not look dorky at all. Nope, not at all :innocent:

Looks like it'd work great.

I got the Monkey King rain cape from ebay a little over a year ago for $8.00 plus $4.00 shipping from China.

Downsides:
water puddles in it between your hands;
as others mention it catches the wind;
there is nothing to keep the back down and it does blow around in the wind;
it only has a clip on the center front vs. other models that have loops for the hands;
in order to be effective, it covers up anything on your handle bars (lights, computer, bell, etc); and
I don't like hoods (but I can turn this one under).

Pluses:
it works to keep the rain off;
get decent airflow below;
the yellow color is hard to miss (don't get the royal blue).

There are certainly alterations you can make to it that will aleviate some of its drawbacks, and

I have the exact rain cape, used it on my commute tonight. The bottom line is it has been keeping me dry. I agree with Consularrider, I don't like the hood. It could be a little bigger, and it makes my head sweat.

I get harassed by all the kids waiting for the bus in the morning... at least I am dry though.

I have an AGU cape too. I have only used it a few times. It has a waist strap and hand loops- i put mine on the handlebars so I don't have to hold them. I had to remember again how to shift without looking-- kind of a funny feeling. I feel that my cape keeps me very visible, and yes, looks ridiculous. My cape keeps my feet dry too-- not sure if that is because I am small in a one size fits all cape or because of the cape design. I don't use the hood in mine (it zips into the collar). Some water does pool in the front, but we don't have super heavy rain here, so that is not a big deal. Bottom line, my cape keeps me dry from neck to toe and breaths fairly well. I will continue to use it (and carry it in my pannier). It also folds into a pocket in the front, which is nice.