Originally Posted by
Cyclosomatic
I live in what I consider an incredibly moderate climate: i don't think it's ever been less than 55 degrees when I've ridden, and usually when it rains it is closer to the low 60s. I commute on average about 25 miles a day. On a busy (but usually fair-weathered day) i can push 50. I prefer layering, so i feel that thermal insulation isn't my priority. I've worn a nice (i believe it was an old Patagonia) shell on a few rides, which helped a bit- but I'm a bit on the tall, skinny side and ended up with a lot of water and grime sprayed up the back of my shirt and down my pants...
As for budget, I could probably ultimately fork out up to 200 bucks on a jacket, maybe 250. But jeez it better be nice.
In the temperature range you're describing, I'd be pretty hesitant to use any rain gear at all. In sort of warm, rainy weather, I just wear a light wool sweater; I'd rather be wet via rain than sweat. If it's in the low 50's F range, I might wear a rain jacket and shorts. If it gets to the low 40s, then rain pants start looking pretty attractive.
I use Showers Pass pants and a North Face jacket. They're pricey, but I'm completely happy to pay for very good rain gear in an environment where rain is likely 9-10 months a year.