TimArchy

I'm going to become a teacher next fall, and I want to be able to ride to work. I expect about a 5-10 mile ride and I live in the south, so no matter what the weather is like I'll be soaking wet when I get there. What should I wear and what should I do with my nicer work clothes that I'll have to change into? I know that is a lame question with no miracle answer, but I was wondering if anyone had any hints.

Tim

The Rob

Basic answer: In warm weather wear light clothing that breathes, and in the cold and wet wear layers. There are many sites on the net that sell rain-gear, so you can get an idea what suits your circumstance best, but it is not necessary to buy bike-specific clothing in most instances! That stuff tends to be more expensive.

Go for bright colors, for the obvious safety reasons.

As to carrying your work duds, a bike trunk or panniers should do nicely. Roll your clothes up rather than fold them.

Enjoy your commute!

-Rob

MichaelW

Most commuters keep their work clothes at work, and take in clean shirts and stuff in a pannier bag. Definately keep your shoes at work. Up to 5 miles it is possible to ride in work clothes if the terrain is fairly flat, the weather cool and you dont try to race.
For your ride, you are better off riding in some quick-drying sports gear, eg cycling shorts and wickable shirt. As the weather gets cooler in winter use a windproof top and long sleeved jersey with leggings or syntheric tight fitting track pants/leggings. In the rain use a waterproof top. You should be able to ride all year round, and winter riding will be a lot more comfortable than a hot, humid summer.
Footwear is always a hard choice, you could use a clipless pedal system with special cycling shoes (the MTB kind), or toe-clip pedals with a trail shoe or leisure cyclig shoe. It probably wont make a whole lot of difference over 5 miles.
To carry your stuff, use a luggage rack and pannier bags. Mots commuters seem to use a single pannier bag on one side, it doesnt upset the balance.

Use the last 1/4mile as a cooldown if you can. This is more effective on the bike than standing around. If you are in sports gear on a hot day you can tip your waterbiottle over you for extra cooling.

RonH

South of what?

Wear regular cycling clothes. I wear lycra shorts and a jersey.
You may want to wear mountain bike style shorts for modesty's sake (since young impressionable girls may be there when you arrive ).
Can you shower at the school?
If you can just shower and change into your work clothes.
If you can't clean up at the sink in the bathroom.
Make sure you have deodorant, talcum powder, comb, etc.

Try folding or rolling your clothes so they won't be wrinkled when you put them on. You may want to research several styles or panniers or backpacks. Ask for commuting suggestions/recommendations at your LBS.

Will you have a locker at work? If you do you could bring a week's worth of clothes on Monday and ride Tuesday-Friday.

Some things you may want to carry with you are rain gear, pump, patch kit, spare tube (flat tire), and basic bike tools.

Things to consider a few months down the road (as the time and weather change): lights, fenders, cool/cold weather clothing, etc.

Here is my commuter setup.

TimArchy

Thanks for the tips everyone.


RonH,
No more south than you, I'm in Decatur too.