I actually enjoy braving the elements, so I don't mind going out in the rain. Also, we get random storms during the summer months, so there's always a chance of getting caught in the rain.
What works for me is rain jacket and pants, and sandals. I carry my rain gear in a small bag, to keep sunlight from destroying it.
I agree about gloves. Even those cheap brown cotton work gloves help provide better grip. I keep a pair of those in my sag bag for repairs anyway.
Something that helps me a lot is to keep all of this gear organized in one place, so I don't have to think about it, or search for everything, when I leave the house.