Originally Posted by banerjek

I've never understood why rain and getting wet is such a bit deal -- it's not like most people get worked up about taking a shower in the morning.

I ride in anything and it rained today as it has been practically every day for awhile. If you ride a lot in the rain, most people like fenders, but they are not essential.

As has already been mentioned, temperature is important. If you ride in cold rain, I'd recommend a lightweight waterproof breathable layer (don't use a shell designed for something else -- you'll burn up). The issue with neoprene is that it's only comfortable when it's cold -- you'll burn up in warm rain and you can't shed it and stuff it in a jersey pocket when it's dry. If you ride in light rain, you may be able to get away with something that is water resistant. The advantage to at least keeping your torso dry is that I find you lose a lot less heat through conductive transfer.

DISCLAIMER: I'm a Gore-Tex product tester so you might take my words with a grain of salt.