Rain Rain, Bring It On!

If you are a local follower of this blog then you understand, Florida is a tropical climate. This means we've got a rainy season as well as random showers almost daily. Sooner or later, you're going to get wet, whether it's in the middle of a ride or an entire puddle-hopping endeavor, it's going to happen. So, why not be prepared for it!
Here are a couple steps to help stop the rainy days from giving you the blues.

Know what's around the bend
with the Garmin 810

Check the Weather Often!
The boy scout's motto is "be prepared" and it applies to cyclists as well. Before you clip in, you should have an idea of what the weather is going to be while you're out. That way, you can decide if you need to pocket a jacket or grab some lights. For the most up-to-date weather, the Garmin 810 and 510 will connect via your mobile phone to alert you of severe weather warnings in your current area.

For more info on the Garmin 510 and 810, click here

Pack-able Precipitation Protection
This is a clever way of saying, raincoat, which every cyclist needs to keep as an option. I'm a big fan of pack-able materials that easily fit in a jersey pocket. That way, you're not committed to wearing long-sleeves the whole ride.
There are lots of different waterproof jackets, find the one whose features reflect how you ride. Some are as thin and breathable as possible, others have some insulation. Just remember, the body is going to be warming up during the ride. So, if you don't want to create your own personal sauna, start cold to finish comfortable.
The Castelli Sottile is a great example of having a simple, pack-able and light weight option that doesn't break the bank.

For more info on the Castelli Sottile, click here

The Light & Motion Taz 1200
will brighten up any ride

Have a Reliable Set of Lights 
It's hard enough getting cars to notice riders when it's bright and sunny. Take away half the visibility and some of their control on the road, that's riding in the rain. Make sure everybody sees you with a good set of bright lights. Light & Motion lights are waterproof as well as providing light to all four sides of the rider. It also will show you any debris that may be in your way.

For more info on the Light & Motion lights, click here

Protect Your Vision
Knowing the conditions ahead of time, making sure your core stays dry and being a presence on the road means nothing if you can't see where you're going. The problem with traditional sunglasses in the rain is they are often too dark. Having the option of exchangeable lenses makes keeping up with sunglasses easy and keeps them versatile. The Tifosi Podium have "decentered, shatterproof pollycarbonate lense," which to non-rocket scientists, means they have little distortion and sharper peripheral vision.

For more info, and different types of Tifosi glasses, click here

Be it sunny or cloudy, dry or wet, ride when you want. But, even if you are only a fair weather rider, everyone should be prepared to get stuck in the rain. Who knows, you might end up enjoying it!