Hot, cold or wet: The key to enjoying the outdoors in any kind of weather is maintaining a certain level of comfort. When it’s cool and rainy, that means staying dry.
The best way to do that is with waterproof outerwear. With the right kind of gear and its effective use, you can stay dry and comfortable even in the worst weather.
- Use the turtle method. For maximum dryness, create a waterproof shell around yourself. That includes a hood, jacket, pants and shoes.
- Know the limitations. Not all outwear performs the same. Waterproof, breathable garments are superior to old-fashioned rain slickers, but even breathable fabric cannot keep up with excessive body heat. You will get wet inside.
- Maintain a comfortable pace. You are less likely to overheat if you do so.
- Vent excess heat. Start opening pit zips and use other venting techniques before heat and condensation create a moisture problem.
- Wear a comfort layer. A thin layer of wool or man-made fabric next to the skin adds insulation and comfort if moisture builds up inside outerwear.
- Limit water entry. For instance, keep your hood up and your arms down. You will maintain the integrity of the rain shield.
Avoid off-trail travel. Brushy and wooded areas stay wet and drippy, even after the rain has stopped. - One last tip. Don’t forget to protect other gear from the rain, including your backpack, camera equipment and electronics. Sealable plastic bags are an inexpensive way to keep cellphones dry.
Avoid the Mud Stripe
Fenders might not look cool on a mountain bike, but neither does a brown stripe up your back after a soggy day of riding. Not to mention, mud and crud thrown up by the front tire can damage the drivetrain and other parts. Clamp-on mud guards offer a temporary, as-needed solution. A decent pair costs as little as $20. That’s a small price to pay to protect your bicycle—and your backside.
The Un-App Weather App
The most accurate weather app is not an app at all. It is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website at www.weather.gov. It the gold-standard of weather information. Create a shortcut on your phone or tablet for quick access.
Carry an Extra Set of Hands
Keep a pair of medical gloves in your tackle box or backpack. They come in handy for all kinds of tasks, including first aid, cleaning up messes, applying stinky jar baits, and keeping bait and lures from being contaminated by sunscreen on your hands.
Special Days in October
October 4, National Golf Day.
October 11, National Fossil Day.
Got a Tip or a Whopper?
Send us your favorite outdoor tip, photo or story. If selected for publication, we will send you $25 for one-time use. Email your submission to info@ruralite.org.