For us, the bicycle is more than just a tool for enjoying weekend rides; it is an indispensable part of our daily lives. It has become something irreplaceable that we use regardless of the season or the weather.
That said, because you are completely exposed to the elements when riding, there are many items that become necessary depending on the situation. Helmets protect our lives, and warm gloves and apparel are needed on cold days, but among these, rain gear is essential for remaining unaffected by the weather.
According to the weather forecast I checked yesterday, it was supposed to be cloudy. However, as I stepped out my front door and glanced up at the western sky, I saw heavy, ominous clouds. I went back inside, grabbed my favorite Cleverhood rain cape, and by the time I headed back out, it had already started to rain. I breathed a sigh of relief that I hadn’t just headed off as I was, threw on the Cleverhood, and made my way to Circles.
This is what my rainy day commute looks like.
Choosing "a rainy day" doesn't have to mean "not riding my bike." But that said, I can't imagine working or eating while still wet. Of course, I simply dislike getting wet, and winter rain in particular just makes you cold to the bone. I have tried many different rain jackets, but for commuting, light cycling, or riding at a relaxed pace, the usability of this Cleverhood rain cape is second to none.
It has a simple design that you just throw on over whatever you're wearing, whether it's thick or thin layers. If you have a small bag, you can even wear the cape over it. It also covers your hands, so there's no need to worry about your gloves getting wet. In warmer weather, if you get hot while pedaling, you can instantly let air inside to eliminate stuffiness—it’s just full of benefits.
Cleverhood
ELECTRIC GLEN
¥46,000 (excl. tax)
ELECTRIC HOUNTOOTH, ELECTRIC GINGHAM
¥34,500 (excl. tax)
Cleverhood
(From right to left) JOHN BROWN, TF GREEN, WEETEMOE CAMO, OCEAN STATE BLUE, SEABEE YELLOW, MR FOX POINT, COFFEE MILK
¥34,500 (excl. tax)
Beyond that, there are some very thoughtful features in the Cleverhood rain cape for when you're on a bike.
First, there are openings in the cape that allow you to put your arms out. This is a huge advantage as it lets you use your hands freely without having to bunch the cape up from the bottom. Additionally, these openings close with magnets, saving you the extra steps of fiddling with zippers or buttons when opening and closing them. This helps keep the impact of the rain to a minimum.
The shape of the hood is also unique.
The large brim is designed to shut out rain that would otherwise obstruct your vision, ensuring a wide field of view. The neck area is slightly narrowed, allowing you to easily fasten your helmet straps. And, when you wear the hood, it doesn't cause the usual stress when checking behind you; the unique shape allows you to turn your head naturally.
And this is a very important feature.
If you put your thumbs through these rubber loops while gripping the handlebars, the cape won't blow up in the wind.
For safety during nighttime use, all models use either sewn-in 3M reflective material or fabric woven with reflective threads.
The Cleverhood rain cape is one of those items that deepens the connection between the user and their bicycle. But it’s not limited to that; it’s an item I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys camping, outdoor festivals, fishing, or other outdoor activities. It will surely make your time outdoors even more comfortable and fun.