Cycling in the rain can be a challenge, but with the right equipment, you can stay dry and comfortable. Velo rain pants are just as essential as a waterproof jacket for proper protection. Discover our complete guide to choosing the right pants for optimum protection when you're out cycling.
Cycling rain pants: water-repellent and waterproof?
When cycling, it's essential to have the right clothing to protect you from rain and bad weather. Two common options are water-repellent or waterproof pants. But what's the difference between the two?
Water-repellent rain pants are treated with a special coating that allows water droplets to roll off the fabric without absorbing them. This makes them resistant to light rain or splashes, but not totally waterproof.
However, some water-repellent treatments are more resistant than others. This is the case, for example, with the treatment used on VEST PARIS' XPLORA rain pants. However, these must be re-treated every 10 washes with a special spray or detergent.
100% waterproof pants, on the other hand, are made from special laminated fabrics designed to repel water completely. They are perfectly waterproof and will protect you even in the wettest conditions.
So if you're planning to cycle in pouring rain, waterproof pants are essential. However, if your rides are generally exposed to light rain or occasional splashes, water-repellent pants may be sufficient. The choice between the two will therefore depend on your specific needs and the look you want to present once off the bike.
Waterproof bicycle rain pants: an essential for cyclists
Velo rain pants equipped with a membrane are an essential item for cyclists who want to stay dry and comfortable in heavy rain. These pants offer optimum protection against the elements, thanks to their waterproof and breathable fabric.
This implies that waterproof pants must be equipped with a membrane fabric (or laminate) whose performance is equivalent to at least 5000/5000. Anything less will not provide excellent protection against driving rain.
What's more, these waterproof pants with laminated fabrics feature taped seams that prevent water from penetrating, guaranteeing total waterproofing.
On the other hand, the limitation of these pants is their cut and style. While they provide total protection for the legs and lower body, the look they give you is generally far from your standards.
Equipped with reflective strips, these waterproof pants for men and women guarantee enhanced visibility, even in low-light conditions.
On the practical side, it's easy to put on and take off thanks to a full-length zipper.
Cycling rain pants: styles and options
Bicycle rain pants come in a variety of styles, from practical overtrousers to more fitted models. On the more fitted models, there are a number of issues to be addressed. The level of rain resistance (it's hard to reconcile style and membrane in a pair of pants), appearance (you need reflective stripes to be seen) and the noise made by the membrane when rubbing as you walk. This is why a water-repellent treatment is often preferred to a membrane when designing cycling rain pants.
As far as reflective stripes are concerned, there are ways of hiding them. The XPLORA pants from VEST PARIS, for example, feature reflective stripes, but we've chosen to make them reversible to maintain a timeless, urban look once off the bike. These reflective stripes are only useful for visibility during the bike ride.
Bicycle rain pants: versatility and ease of use
Bike rain pants are a more practical than aesthetic option for cyclists. Easy to slip on over your usual outfit, they create an instant waterproof barrier.
Even if it's not the most stylish of outfits, and you cycle to work every day, these velo ville rain overtrousers are an effective solution. Made from waterproof and breathable materials, they keep you dry while wicking moisture away from the inside.
Their ergonomic design makes these waterproof pants easy to put on and take off. What's more, they feature taped seams to keep water out.
Thanks to their adjustable elastic waistband and adjustable hem, the overtrousers can be adapted to suit all body shapes and offer absolute comfort.
City bike rain pants: functional but not stylish
This passage is especially for those who want to be protected from the rain while maintaining their usual look. It's hard enough to arrive at a meeting wearing overtrousers, and even if you've taken them off, the problem is storing them. Where to store rain-soaked gear? It's a dilemma faced by all cyclists, but there's no ideal solution if you want to maintain a certain elegance. Hence the compromise made by VEST PARIS with its XPLORA pants.
Rain pants for complete protection
For complete protection, combine your rain pants with other rainwear, such as waterproof jackets and overshoes. This will keep you comfortably dry, even in the harshest weather conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, investing in rain pants is essential for regular cyclists. Explore the different options available on the market and choose the one that best suits your needs. With the right equipment, pedaling in the rain can become a less unpleasant experience.