Rain Coat for Motorcycle Rider gear is not just an accessory. It’s a lifesaver during the Rainy Season in the Philippines. If you’ve ever been caught in a sudden downpour on your bike, you know the feeling. Drenched clothes, foggy helmet visor, and slippery roads. Whether you’re a casual weekend rider or a daily commuter, having a reliable rain coat designed for motorcycle riders can make all the difference. It keeps you dry, safe, and comfortable even when the wet season skies open up without warning. In this article, we’ll explore why a rain coat is a must-have for riding in the wet season. The benefits, pros and cons, some personal insights (like why I chose a Motowolf raincoat). And practical tips on pricing and availability (yes, even in places like Valenzuela City). Let’s gear up for the rainy ride ahead!
Why It’s a Must-Have for the Rainy Season
The rainy season in the Philippines (typically June through October/November) brings heavy rains and unpredictable weather. For motorcycle riders, this means encountering sudden rain showers, flooded streets, and reduced visibility on a regular basis. A Rain Coat for Motorcycle Rider is essential because it acts as your personal shield against these elements. Instead of arriving at your destination soaked and shivering, you’ll stay dry and warm inside a quality rain coat. This is especially important for daily commuters who can’t afford to skip work or school due to rain.
Moreover, riding in the rain isn’t all doom and gloom. In fact, some riders embrace it. The air tends to be cooler, and traffic can thin out during a downpour. Making the ride more peaceful than usual. With a proper motorcycle rain coat, you too can enjoy these benefits without worrying about getting drenched. It gives you the confidence to keep riding through wet season conditions. Instead of pulling over to wait out the rain or switching to a car, a good rain coat lets you power through bad weather while staying relatively comfortable.
Benefits of Using a Rain Coat for Motorcycle Rider in the Wet Season
Using a specialized rain coat for motorcycle rider offers several key benefits during the wet season:
- Stay Dry and Comfortable: The obvious benefit – you remain dry even under torrential rain. High-quality motorcycle rain coats are 100% waterproof, often made of PVC, polyester, or coated nylon that keep water out. Staying dry means you’ll also stay warmer (no cold rainwater chilling your body) and more comfortable on long rides. This helps prevent colds and sickness that can come from being soaked in the rain.
- Protect Your Clothing and Gear: A rain coat protects whatever you’re wearing underneath. If you ride to work in your office attire or carry gadgets in your pockets, a rain suit ensures your clothes and electronics aren’t ruined by water. It also keeps your helmet, gloves, and boots drier by preventing water from seeping in at the neck or waistline.
- Improved Safety and Visibility: Many motorcycle rain coats come in bright colors (neon green, yellow, orange) or have reflective strips. This increases your visibility to other drivers on dark, rainy days – a major safety advantage. Being visible can prevent accidents. Also, a well-fitted rain coat designed for riders won’t flap violently in the wind or obstruct your mirrors, allowing you to maneuver safely. (By contrast, a cheap poncho can turn into a balloon or sail – distracting and dangerous!)
- Ride Anytime – Extended Riding Season: With the right rain gear, you don’t have to park your bike for months just because it’s the wet season. A rain coat empowers you to ride year-round. Daily commuters can stick to their routine without fearing sudden rain. Weekend warriors can still enjoy long rides or touring even in monsoon months. In short, you get more saddle time and freedom because rain is no longer a roadblock.
- Confidence and Peace of Mind: Perhaps the biggest benefit is mental. Knowing you have reliable rain protection means peace of mind. You won’t anxiously scan the sky every morning or dread the forecast. Instead, you can focus on the road. This confidence makes riding in bad weather much less stressful. You’re prepared, come what may.
I can attest to these benefits personally. I invested in a Motowolf raincoat set (jacket and pants) and it has saved me from countless soaked commutes. The Motowolf raincoat is durable and truly waterproof – I’ve ridden through intense downpours and stayed dry underneath. That peace of mind is priceless. Of course, Motowolf is just one brand; there are many options out there. The important thing is to choose a rain coat for motorcycle rider use – something built for the purpose – so you reap all these benefits when the rain falls.
Pros and Cons of Rain Coat for Motorcycle Rider
No gear is perfect, and it’s important to know the practical pros and cons of using a rain coat for motorcycle rider. Here are some real-world observations:
Pros:
- Full-Body Rain Protection: A good rain coat (especially a two-piece suit or one-piece rainsuit) covers your upper body and lower body completely. This means you won’t have rainwater seeping into your pants or your back. Everything from your chest to your legs stays dry.
- Easy to Pack and Wear: Most motorcycle rain coats are lightweight and packable. They often come with a small pouch or bag. You can fold the rain suit and keep it under your seat or in your backpack until needed. When dark clouds roll in, it usually takes just a minute or two to pull over and slip the rain coat on over your regular riding gear.
- Wind and Mud Protection: These rain suits not only keep water out, but also shield you from cold winds while riding. They act as a windbreaker. Plus, they keep mud and dirty splash-off off your clothes. Your work outfit or riding jacket stays clean because the rain coat takes all the dirt. After the ride, you can simply wipe down or rinse the rain coat.
- Affordable Options: Rain gear for riders comes in a range of prices (more on that later). But even budget-friendly rain coats can do the job. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get basic rain protection. Even a simple “kapote” (the Filipino term for a poncho-style raincoat) can be bought cheaply and will keep you somewhat dry in a pinch.
Cons:
- Bulk and Heat: Some high-quality rain coats can be a bit heavy or bulky, which might affect your comfort and mobility while riding. Also, waterproof material often doesn’t breathe well. If the rain stops and you’re still wearing it, you may start sweating inside. It’s not a great feeling to be dry from rain but damp from your own sweat! Choosing a rain coat with ventilation or breathable fabric is key to avoid overheating.
- Storage and Convenience: When it’s not raining, that rain coat has to go somewhere. If your motorcycle has limited storage, carrying a rain suit can be a hassle. You might need to use a backpack or saddlebag to keep it handy. It’s an extra item to manage, and some riders find it cumbersome to put on/take off gear frequently when weather is fickle.
- Durability of Cheap Gear: Those super cheap poncho-type raincoats (the plastic ones) often don’t last long. They can tear easily if caught on something sharp. Constant flapping at highway speeds can shred a flimsy poncho. Also, a generic rain poncho not designed for motorcycle use could even get snagged in your bike’s chain, which is very dangerous. (Imagine the loose end of your coat getting tangled – it can drag you or rip unexpectedly.) That’s why investing in a motorcycle-specific rain coat is wise for safety.
- Cost of High-End Gear: On the flip side, quality rain gear from big brands can be pricey. Some premium motorcycle rain suits with advanced materials (breathable membranes, reflective panels, etc.) cost significantly more than a regular jacket. Not everyone has the budget for a ₱4,000+ rain suit. However, as we’ll discuss, there are mid-range options (like Motowolf) that balance quality and cost.
Despite these cons, most riders agree that the pros far outweigh the downsides. Especially if you choose a rain coat that fits well and matches your needs. For instance, I don’t mind a bit of extra bulk if it means I won’t arrive at work soaked. And packing a raincoat became second nature to me during the wet season. It’s all about preparation and picking the right gear.
Price Range and Availability
One great thing about motorcycle rain coats is you have options for every budget. In the Philippines, basic rain ponchos or “kapote” raincoats for riders can cost as low as ₱200 to ₱500 in local markets or online. These are usually PVC or plastic, often one-size-fits-all. They’ll keep you dry in a short rain shower, but don’t expect them to hold up to daily use or high-speed rides.
For better quality two-piece rain suits (a jacket and pants set) made for riders, expect to spend a bit more. Mid-range brands and generic motorcycle rain suits typically range from around ₱800 up to ₱1,500. These often have some reflective strips, thicker material, maybe heat-resistant panels on the legs (so they don’t melt on your exhaust pipe), and elastic cuffs to keep water out. They provide more durability and comfort than the cheapest options.
If you’re looking at well-known brands or higher-end gear, the price goes higher. For example, a Motowolf raincoat set (which includes a jacket, pants, and sometimes a storage pouch) can retail for around ₱1,800 to ₱2,500 at full price. Other premium international brands like IXON, Alpinestars, or Oxford offer rain suits ranging from ₱3,000 to ₱5,000 or more. These often feature better materials and ergonomics, but you pay a premium for the brand and tech.
Availability: You won’t have trouble finding a rain coat for motorcycle riders in Metro Manila and other parts of the Philippines. Here are some tips on where to look:
- Motorcycle Gear Shops: Stores that sell helmets and riding gear usually stock rain suits, especially during the rainy season. In and around Metro Manila (even in areas like Valenzuela City), you can find gear shops or sections in motorbike dealerships that carry rain coats. If you’re in Valenzuela, check local bike accessory shops or the marketplaces – they often have affordable raincoats for riders.
- Outdoor and Hardware Stores: Sometimes large hardware stores or outdoor shops carry rain jackets and suits that bikers can use. They might not be motorcycle-specific, but a sturdy industrial rain jacket can work in a pinch.
- Online Marketplaces: Lazada and Shopee are your friends here. Online shopping offers a huge range – from budget ponchos to branded gear. Many sellers in Metro Manila (some even based in Valenzuela City) offer next-day delivery. For instance, I’ve seen a Lazada listing for a motorcycle rain coat at just ₱130, likely a simple poncho, and plenty of options in the ₱1000 range. Just be sure to check reviews for quality and sizing.
- Malls and Department Stores: Some malls have motorcycle accessories kiosks or sporting goods sections where rain gear is available. While you might pay a bit more at a mall, the convenience and ability to examine the product can be worth it.
When buying, pay attention to size and fit.
A rain coat should be a bit loose so it can go over your regular jacket or backpack, but not so loose that it flaps excessively. Many come in sizes from M to XXL – choose one that gives you some room. Also, look for features like a high collar, hood (if you want one that goes over your helmet when parked), and secure closures (zippers, velcro, snaps) that are easy to use with gloves on.
Lastly, remember that riding in rain will also leave your motorcycle splashed with mud and grime. After a rain-soaked ride, it’s a good idea to clean your bike to prevent rust or damage. For example, if you’re around Valenzuela and your bike is caked in dirt from the wet roads, you might want to visit a reliable car wash in Valenzuela City to get it cleaned up. Keeping both yourself and your motorcycle clean and dry will ensure you’re ready for the next ride, rain or shine!
