Esotropiart

I recently purchased some rain gear for my biking pursuits. Rain is inevitable here in the Pacific Northwest, and my bike is going to remain my primary mode of transportation in the foreseeable future. I had some PVC mega rain gear, but it is a bit heavy, not extremely flexible, and massively hot, since there isn't much venting.

I went to Performance Bike as usual. I have had good experience buying there. They always have pretty crazy sales on stuff. Unfortunately rain gear seems to be expensive no matter where you go. I am normally extremely thrifty when it comes to buying clothes. Nevertheless, I'm coming to realize quality bike gear is worth investing in. Anything that increases comfort or safety while riding is well worth some added expense. Besides, if maintained properly, most gear lasts for years. Bike safety is extremely important, as it is literally a matter of life or death. Even people who look to me to be the "coolest" bikers always stress the importance of making oneself visible.

The waterproof pants I bought are fairly generic (and inexpensive) but fine for my needs. They are not breathable. Most of the time I won't be out joyriding in the rain. Getting 2 miles to work should be tolerable. The jacket was the primary investment. I've never spent so much on a single item of clothing! Even so, I feel it's money well spent. It is one of the most comfortable jackets of any sort I've worn, and the quality seems pretty good. When I showed it to elder Dave (avid biker), he approved and confirmed that the price I paid is to be expected.

I was kind of sick of the appearance of my cheap Target bike helmet. A few weeks ago I bought the one pictured here. It was mega-cheap at Performance Bike and looks way better than my now back-up helmet.

Yep, this is about as "cyclist" as you'll see me get. I really don't like the whole look of those guys with all the official bike apparel. You know the type - the padded spandex and nylon shirts with logos and swooshes all over them. I don't have anything against those people or what they wear. I just feel it is a bit much for my tastes.