OK, technically this morning was a ride in Hurricane Florence, but in reality it was a ride on a normal rainy day.
Have I told you that I'm a lucky man? If I haven't... don't worry, I'll remind you many times throughout my blogs. The 2 awesome women in my life really take care of me. When it's my birthday or anniversary or any gift-giving holiday, they hook me up with gear and clothing that Rocks.
About 3 weeks ago, I took a 2,400 mile ride around Lake Michigan (more on that ride later). It rained EVERY damn day. Even a pinhole in your weather gear would cause you to get soaked. Well, I had some pinholes (or more) in my 2 year old rain gear as well as cracks in the soles of my boots from riding 29,000 miles in 20 months. I got so wet, while my buddies remained dry. It was soooo uncomfortable. Remember, I was a rookie 2 years ago. If I had started a blog, it would have been BELOWavgmiketriestorideabike. I didn't know how to choose gear that lasts. The old rain-gear was bought on Amazon and I think it would have lasted, but I didn't choose a good fit. I chose TOO big and all of the 'flapping' during rides caused pinholes. Remember to choose a good fit. Most rain-gear is already sized big to fit over your jacket and pants, so don't go up a size. If you're a L, choose L not XL. Now you're asking, how did you get cracks in the soles of your boots? Well, the pegs wear down soft soles. I had chosen waterproof boots that had flexible soles. But those soles wear out quickly on your pegs, so be ready to replace them every 10-12,000 miles.
Now, back to my ladies and how lucky I am: My mom gets me gift certificates to Revzilla for my birthday, and my Jewel (Julie) sneaks into my wishlist on Revzilla every now and again... and gets me cool stuff. PLUS, if we're out and about she always looks to fix my shopping mistakes by showing me how it's done. So this weekend was banner as I ended up with a new rain-suit, boots, and gloves (waterproof gloves are a nice-to-have extra).
Check out the picture:
Wow. It rained the whole ride into work and everything worked like a charm. My hair didn't get wet (hahahahaha). My work clothing that I was wearing didn't even get a drop on it. And my hands stayed dry!!! I was super comfortable and arrived at work with a smile on my face.
Again... to each their own, but I hope this gives you some things to look for and not-look for. Don't forget to check-out Revzilla and Hermy's since they suited me up today. If you want my Revzilla wish list, shoot me your e-mail to avgmike@avgmikeonabike.com.
About the author
Avg Mike is the owner of the site. By every sense of the word... he is Average.
Where avg mike stands out? He's lucky!
"I have the best kids, step-kids, friends, and women (Julie and Mom) in my life."
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