December 25, 2000


What clothing will keep me dry on a rainy bike trip?

I am going on a six-day bike trip in Alaska in August. I expect that it will rain and would like to have the clothing to stay dry and comfortable. I expect to ride about a 100 miles a day. Any recommendations? Thanks,

— Joe Middle Island, New York

You "expect" that it will rain, Joe? EXPECT??? I'd say it's pretty much a certainty. I spent a week in Alaska in August four years ago, and it was either A) raining, B) just easing up on the rain, or C) just beginning to rain. August in Alaska is early winter there, and the heart of the wet season. Are you sure you can't manage this trip in May? No weather guarantees then, either, but apt to be much drier.

The only thing for you, my friend, is a Gore-Tex suit. Probably the best for cycling specific activities is the Performance Elite Gore-Tex Jacket. At only $249 (and apt to be on sale between now and then) it's a borderline steal, and a well-designed piece, with an extended tail, removable hood and mesh rear pocket that adds ventilation when needed. You can add a set of matching pants to that for a total of $339 — less than many Gore-Tex parkas alone. Throw in some Gore-Tex socks as well (usually about $40), and some sort of Gore-Tex shell gloves such as Outdoor Research Fall Line Gloves ($120).

Aside from that, take several changes of wicking underwear so you can swap out at mid-day if need be. You're apt to get pretty damp, Gore-Tex or no, between the rain and the sweating and the splashing from the tires (you've got fenders, right?) and getting hosed when tour buses roar past. Gee, sounds like FUN!! Dude, send me a postcard...

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