Be ready for unexpected downpours

It's easy to dress for rides that begin 'neath dripping skies. You bundle up in shoe covers, tights and a rain jacket, then roll out on your fender bike. No problem.

But now we're getting into the summer thunderstorm season. It may be sunny when you leave the house, but storms brew quickly. When you get doused while wearing shorts and a short-sleeve jersey, you can get mighty cold as well as soaked.

But who wants to lug full rain gear when it might not rain at all? Here's a minimal, easy-to-carry kit for days when the weather can't make up its mind.

Lightweight rain shell. It won't have all the bells and whistles of a serious rain jacket, but it will roll up compactly. It'll block rain and hold in body heat, which is the key to preventing not just the chills but dangerous hypothermia.

These jackets are affordable at about $20-$30. It's smart to choose a bright color for better visibility. Reflective material makes you even safer.

Helmet liner. If you can keep your head warm, the rest of your body will follow. A light, synthetic skull cap covers your ears and holds precious heat next to your wet noggin.

Over-gloves. You're already wearing short-finger cycling gloves so you don't need more padding, just help to hold in hand heat. Pearl Izumi fills the bill with its Liner Glove. Simple, inexpensive polypro gloves will work in summer conditions. Just pull them on over your cycling gloves so hands stay warm enough to brake and shift.

Toe covers. Full-on shoe covers would be warmer, but they're bulky to carry. Go for toe covers that pack small.
Tuck the skull cap, gloves and toe covers in your seat bag. Roll the jacket tightly and stuff it in your jersey's middle rear pocket. Then bring on the rain!

Source: RBR