With the monsoons in full force, it is time to invest in some quality rain gear. Here are some of the essentials that you absolutely need:
With understated aesthetics and a super-functional design, the Stealth Evo v3 is engineered for the perpetual traveller who is unfazed through any terrain, weather or ride.
The heavy Duty Outer Shell consists of 600D PU coated polyester with Invista Cordura panels reinforcing the abrasion zones. Impact protection consists of Knox Microlock CE Level 2 certified protectors in the shoulder and elbow and CE Level 2 certified protector in the back. Additional protection is in the form of a removable ventilated lower back support.
The Stealth Evo comes with a three layer construction with an external rain Liner With sealed seams that can eveb be worn as a stand-alone jacket, over the outer shell with a full-sleeves internal winter Liner made from Sustans fibre made with Dupont Sorona high heat preservation characteristics. It’s highly durable and is quick to dry.
Retro reflective panels on front, arms and back increase visibility in low-light/ heavy rain situations and lastly, the jacket has four pockets including two external fleece-lined hand warmer pockets.
Rs 11,550
The pants come with KNOX® Microlock CE Level 1 certified protectors in the knee, shank and hips along with ‘KneeSlap’ which is a Rynox exclusive knee armour positioning mechanism which allows the wearer the freedom to adjust the height and position of the knee protectors, while wearing the pants. The heavy duty 600D PU coated polyester outer shell with Invista Cordura panels ensures protection in the key abrasion zones.
The three layer construction with the external rain pants which can be worn as stand-alone rain pants and internal winter liner ensures protection as well as warmth in even the heaviest of showers. The pants have two waterproof cargo side pockets.
Rs 8250
The gloves are named Poseidon after the greek god of the sea, so that should give you an indication of what exactly these gloves are meant for. True to its name. However, these gloves go one step ahead, not only keeping your hands dry during heavy showers, but warm as well courtesy the full-leather constructionn and Thinsulate thermal lining. However, that doesn't mean your hands will get sweaty on prolonged use, thanks to the HIPORA breathable membrane.
These gloves also get a double layer on the palm for better abrasion resistance and carbonfibre-finished knuckle protection and sliders for fingers add to the safety, whereas a dotted leather patch along the palm and base of the fingers allow for better grip. A 3M Scotchlite reflective material ensures maximum visibility and the combination of elastic as well as Velcro strap for means both secure and firm fastening and goes a long way in keeping water from seeping in.
Rs 2,950
This Nano Fabric protect from Muc-Off will quickly and safely restore any fabric's water repellency whilst leaving them shielded from everyday stains. Once sprayed on to the surface of the garment you want to protect, fabric protect guards against water, oil and grime. The fabric protect's invisible hydrophobic coating is safe to use on all fabrics including leather, suede, cotton, polyester and breathable fabrics.
Rs 1,100
A game changer when it comes to waterproof boots, the Zeus Tornado Dry Tech Boots utilize a micro fiber and genuine bonded leather construction with a three-layer waterproof membrane. The flexi fit accordion panels on front and rear impart maximum comfort giving the Tornado ZX-3 a refined fit to enhance comfort and performance on the bike while the micro injected shift pad and shin plate provide the CE level protection for serious riders. The Tornado Dry Tech Boots Boots are the answer to hot and wet climates, eliminating that age old choice between breathablity and dry feet.
Rs 11,000
Nobody likes rainwater seeping into their shoes, and that is where these rain covers come in. Made from hard-wearing PVC and with a tough, non-slip rubber sole, they can be rough-used and worn even when off the bike without fear of nicks and tears. The zip on the side is covered by a panel as an added protection against water getting in and the elastic top ensures a snug fit and the snap-button strap secures the cover against the shoe, reducing chances of it getting snagged on a footpeg or side stand. The shoe cover is available in sizes S (upto shoe size 7), M (8,9) and L (10 onwards), though in our experience, size L fits just fine for most people.
Rs 1,249
This waterproof cover, with an elastic band all around and straps on top that attach with those on your backpack make for a snug fit that also ensure almost zero water seepage. Additionally, the overall rigid construction ensures that once the cover is on your bag, there’s no scope for buffeting, which means that irrespective of how heavy the rain is or how fast you’re going (hey, don’t push it in the rain guys) the cover won’t be getting dislodged. The Forclaz rain cover is available in sizes small (for bags of volume 5-10 litres) to extra-large (for full-size hiking bags of 40 litres onwards).
Rs 399 onwards
We strongly advise against operating your mobile phone while on the bike. However, there sometimes do come eventualities when you’d want your mobile phone close at hand, such as when using the GPS function. Now, though smartphone manufacturers claim their offerings are waterproof, putting their claims to the test can backfire disastrously. This decidedly low-tech, yet immensely important bit of kit will make reaching your destination possible with zero hassles. Its thick plastic construction keeps out water and protects against small bumps, while leaving enough scope for using the touchscreen without error, and the handy neck-strap ensures you don’t need to fish it out of your pocket every time you need to use your mobile.
Rs 199