Spec me some Running/Cycling stuff...

Soldato
Joined
23 Nov 2004
Posts
3,794
Hi,

I currently have a waterproof jacket that I use for my daily cycle commute, and also when I go out running. Unfortunately, it seems it isn't breathable, and I get nasty sweaty arms, etc. Can anyone recommend me a jacket that I can use for running and cycling? Budget around the £40 mark, but will spend more if necessary for a product that works.

My bag is also a standard 2 strap Animal rucksack. This is on it's last legs and also causes a sweaty back when cycling! I'm guessing I need something with webbing? I carry in it 1 or 2 lunch boxes + a shirt and sometimes shoes as well.
Any recommendations for a new bag?


Cheers
 
Look for a windproof jacket; something water resistant rather that waterproof will breath much better. I've been through loads of jackets and am still in search if the perfect one.
 
When I was cycling to work I ended up getting a luggage rack that attached to my seat post and my bag then was held in place with bungy cords. My back felt a whole lot better for it with the air getting round me. Had a Lowe Alpine jacket which I liked but don't think they're made any more.
 
I have considered a luggage rack, but I'm not keen on them at all.

I'm suprised with the amount of cyclists/commuters on here that no one seems to know of a decent enough jacket to use. PErhaps a runner can recommend something that will suffice?
 
I can recommend a number of jackets that are water resustant and breathable but they all start north if £40.

I just got an Adidas windstopper softshell from eBay for running. Seems to do the job.

Despite what marketing people say waterproof and breathable doesn't really exist unless you are around 5% body fat and thus run cooler than the rest of us. Most cyclist and runners accept they are going to get wet and concentrate on temperature management.
 
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You could look for seconds on ebay. I got a second end of line Altura jacket for £25 when it should have cost about £65 new. It's not super breathable, but as Asprilla says, nothing really is unless you spend silly money.
 
You won't stay dry, as DOD mentioned. Just get used to the idea and work on temperature management. Stop the wind and you won't get cold, then concentrate on clothing that doesn't hold water. Cotton is the worst for holding lots of water and you'll freeze when the wond goes through it. Lycra-type man made textiles are the best as they hold next to no water, they dry quickly, and you can layer them with a windproof layer on top.

I have a Montaine featherlight smock as my windproof. It was one of the thinnest ones out there but Adidas now do an even thinner one. Both are water resistant and breathable, but will keep the wind off you :)
 
I went out yesterday with my waterproof on over a cotton t-shirt. When I got home after just 10 miles my t-shirt was absolutely sodden. Ugh.

That Montaine Featherlite doesn't actually look all that expensive. Hmmm.
 
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