7 Essentials for Biking in the Rain in College

I go to school at UC Davis, which, as you may know, is the second most bike-friendly campus in the U.S., according to BestCollegesonline.com.

For the past 10 years or so, California has been in a drought. However, this year the weather has decided to unleash all that we’ve been missing. We’ve had multiple storms this winter that have caused bike paths (and tunnels) to flood, flood warnings to be released, and havoc to be wreaked on all the students who bike to class.

Why not take the bus? This is a very valid question, one that I ask myself frequently as I pedal to class with my head down as I fight the wind and know that I will be soaking wet for the rest of the day. The bus system at Unitrans is pretty convenient, having multiple stops on campus and very regular running times.

Sometimes it’s just not convenient enough, though. I like to be able to control when I leave and arrive, in addition to changing my plans at the last second, rather than being at the whim of the bus system. So, I ride my bike. From my extensive biking in the rain experience, I have come up with a list of necessities for biking to and on campus in the rain.

1. Bike fender

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This is definitely the number one item I recommend. Without one, any small puddle will cause the back wheel of your bike to bring the water around and deposit it on your back in what as is known as the “freshman stripe.” People joke about it, but it is truly miserable to be sitting in class with a stripe of muddy water soaking into your back. Luckily, it’s easily preventable with a cheap and simple-to-install fender that can be left on your bike all year round.

2. Rain pants

Practical? Yes! Funny looking? Unfortunately, also a yes. Everyone is funny looking in the rain, though, with all of the layers of warm and waterproof clothing. It’s worth it to be warm and dry as you’re sitting in class. Everyone else will be suffering in their cold, damp clothing.

If you absolutely hate this idea or can’t seem to find any rain pants, I do have an alternative recommendation: wear tights, yoga pants, or pants of some other thin, quick drying material. Definitely no jeans.

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3. Rain jacket

This is a given but should be your go-to, never-leave-the-house-without wardrobe item. Make sure it’s made of high-quality material (actually waterproof!) and has a good hood!

4. Gloves

Ever tried locking/unlocking your bike with freezing, slippery fingers? It’s not fun and sometimes feels actually impossible. Wear gloves and your entire trip to campus will be greatly improved. I have the ones where the thumb and finger are smartphone compatible, so I can still listen to my favorite podcast on my way to class (with only one earbud in while I’m biking of course)!

5. Rain boots

Sitting in class with soaking, cold socks is almost as bad as sitting in class with soaking, cold pants. Get waterproof shoes!

6. Bike seat cover

See above about soaking cold socks and pants. No one wants to sit in class with a wet butt.

7. Bike light

Biking home at night? People are crazy enough in the rain as it is; you definitely want to be seen by any cars or bikes you may meet on the roads. This is an important rule for any time you’re biking at night, but you really want to be able to see any huge puddles in your path when it’s dark and rainy.