Rainy Day Style
Since I live a bit of a distance from the shop, to be honest, I mostly chose to take the train on rainy days.
But there was a turning point that made me start riding my bike even when it rained.
That was taking my child to nursery school.
I’m responsible for the morning drop-off. I ride my bike from home to the nursery school, see my child off, and then head to work.
At first, I felt gloomy on rainy days, but when I actually tried riding through the rain, I found it surprisingly pleasant and refreshing.
Even though it’s a route I ride all the time, the scenery, the sounds, and the feel of the road are different. Plus, there’s a sense of satisfaction in knowing that the gear and clothing I’ve chosen are functioning exactly as they should. Rainy days often mean congested roads, but there’s a small sense of superiority as you zip past the stuck cars.
This time, I’d like to introduce my rainy day style.
Don't fight the rain, flow with it
When you think of rain gear, many people probably imagine a full waterproof suit and rain boots.
Of course, that is one correct way.
However, for a commute of just a few dozen minutes through the city, or during the rainy season where it stops and starts, there are options that are a bit more relaxed.
The star of this look is the CLEVERHOOD Rain Cape.
CLEVERHOOD is a rain gear brand based in Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
Designed specifically for the cycling posture, this rain cape features a unique silhouette that covers not just your body, but also the area around your handlebars.
While your legs remain free to pedal, your upper body is well-protected from the rain. It also offers great ventilation, so you don't have to worry about the stuffiness common with typical rain gear.
There are loops on the inside for your thumbs, keeping the cape from flapping around even while you're riding. This is a truly brilliant feature.
Because it covers the handlebar area, it prevents rain from blowing in from the front.
The hood is also highly adjustable, providing a comfortable fit whether you’re wearing a helmet, a cap, or nothing at all.
Beyond its functionality, what I love is its appearance. It has a sense of style that completes an outfit just by throwing it on.
On days when you look at the forecast and wonder, "Will it or won't it rain?", it makes you feel like you might as well just wear it.
It’s the kind of item that lifts my spirits on rainy days.
Assume you will get wet
No matter how well you protect your upper body, honestly, your feet will get wet.
The discomfort of wet fabric clinging to your skin or shoes that won't dry can become a significant source of stress once you start focusing on it.
So, I decided to take the approach of "assuming I'll get wet" for my lower body.
I chose the RAL Doboom Shorts and BEDROCK SANDALS.
They’re easy to move in, dry quickly, and fit in naturally with the city streets.
On rainy days, "getting back to dry" is often more important than "staying dry."
Just being freed from the idea of "protecting my feet" from the rain reduces the stress of a rainy day remarkably.
The option of an umbrella
Of course, the rain continues even after you get off your bike.
From the bike parking area to the station.
From the station to the office.
Or into the shops you stop by along the way.
That's where the ARATA (AU-08) umbrella comes in handy.
ARATA umbrellas were originally developed for mountaineering and are suitable for both sun and rain.
While they have the specs needed for the mountains, they fit into urban life surprisingly well. In fact, you might feel the benefits even more in your daily life.
It’s lightweight yet sufficiently durable and wind-resistant. The fact that it doesn’t feel like a burden to keep in your bag every day is another attractive feature.
The handle comes with a strap, so you can loop it around your wrist for easy carrying, which is convenient when you have a lot of other things to carry.
Also, while the AU-08 is a foldable type, it can also be tucked away without collapsing the frame fully.
You don’t need to fold in every rib every single time, so you can stow it away quickly when transferring to a train or bus, or popping into a shop.
Rain gear or an umbrella?
Instead of that,
Rain gear AND an umbrella.
By choosing the right one for the situation, the freedom you have on rainy days expands significantly.
Two types of ARATA umbrellas are available at Circles Tokyo.
・AU-08
・ASU-08
They are essential items for the rainy season and the harsh summer that follows.
Arata umbrellas handle both rain and sunlight while achieving a perfect balance of lightness, strength, and a sophisticated look.
It is a highly refined piece that seamlessly connects the city and the field.
Scenery you can only see on a rainy day
On rainy days, the city streets are a little quieter, and the view reflecting on the wet pavement looks more vivid than usual.
The road to nursery school with my child feels special, even though it’s the same place as always.
And having comfortable clothing and gear gives you the luxury of being able to enjoy that scenery.
"Enjoying the rain itself."
Recently, by enjoying my bike rides in the rain with that mindset, the gloomy feelings have completely vanished.
Come to love your cycling time during the rainy season.
Why don’t you try enjoying your bike a little more than usual this rainy season?
