How to Walk in the Rain with the Right Gear

Walking in the rain can seem daunting, but with the right gear, you can brave the raindrops and maybe even enjoy it. From race-friendly Regenjas dames; Regenjas and Regenjas heren to waterproof boots, gaiters, rain pants, and umbrellas, there are plenty of options available to help you continue your outdoor workout when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Raincoats and ponchos

A waterproof jacket is essential to stay dry while walking in the rain. Look for a breathable fabric that helps reduce sweat. A good rain jacket should also have a strong hood that fits well and can be tightened to keep water out. Raincoats are sold at many departments, sporting goods, warehouses, and outdoor stores.

A rain poncho can be a lifesaver in the rain. While a raincoat only covers your torso, exposing your pants to the rain, a poncho is longer and helps keep your pants dry. You can find ponchos at most outdoor retailers.

Many stores sell disposable ponchos that come in a small packet that can easily be placed in your pocket when needed.

Waterproof rain pants

Rain pants help solve the problem of getting water out of your waterproof jacket. However, they may restrict your range of motion more than you’d like for a brisk fitness walk.

You can find lightweight waterproof rain pants for men and women at warehouse stores or outdoor retailers. Before buying a pair, test them to make sure you can move in them well.

If the temperature is not too cold, an alternative idea might be to just wear shorts. Rain will wash off your bare legs instead of soaking into the fabric of your pants, and wet pants will do more to lower your body temperature than bare skin.

Waterproof shoes

A good pair of waterproof shoes can help keep your toes dry while walking. Full-grain leather hiking boots and shoes are fine for light walks and hikes, but if you’re doing a fitness walk, they won’t provide the flexibility you need and will slow you down.

Waterproof running shoes can be a great addition to your running wardrobe. Look for shoes made with Gore-Tex, a breathable waterproof fabric. They can be more expensive than standard shoes.

Some walkers find rubber Wellington-style rain boots helpful in wet weather, but they are best for short, slow walks, such as walking your dog. They are not designed for fitness walking and will not provide the support and flexibility you need.

Gaiters

Even with waterproof shoes, rain can still soak your pants into your boots or splash from puddles and soak your ankles. If you find this particularly disturbing, you might want to check out a pair of gators.

A gaiter extends from your ankle or shin and covers the back of the heel and the tongue of the shoe. Hikers wear gaiters to keep dust and trail debris out of their shoes, but many walkers use waterproof or water-resistant gaiters to help keep shoes and socks dry.