Originally Posted by
xilios
After reading all the posts and doing some more research we've decide to buy new (loose fitting) rain jackets.
We just need to find jackets that have the most vantilation flaps like on the armpits, across the back and if possible across the breast.
It seems too much of a hassle to put on a poncho, worries about having to get off the bike quickly without having it hang somewhere, wearing it on stormy days and getting blown off the bike with a strong crosswind gust.
Thanks for all the replies, you've helped us make up our minds.
cheers George and Monique
I too find that a jacket with ventilation flaps and underarm zipps work well, as at least keeping the airflow going through helps with not feeling so sticky, even though it will always be damp to an extent. The Showers Pass company makes good ones in this regard, but I am sure there are many good brands in the Netherlands as well. As always, with something you will use for many years, not going for the cheapest is often better in the long run.
I agree for being leery of ponchos for crosswinds and headwinds, I am not fond of them for exactly this.
as for rain pants, I replaced my old pair last year with some North Face ones, lighter and less stiff than some on the market, and were not so baggy as others as well. I think they were about 80 or 90 dollars canadian.
have you ever used rain booties? I really like keeping my shoes dry and they work great even after rain has stopped by keeping the spray off your front tire off your shoes. Again, like raingear, there are all kinds of models (and prices) available.