I use a bike poncho, it covers the legs, too, and limits sweating because it is open underneath. Decathlon sells them for cheap, and them works. There is also normal colors, but I prefer to be absurdly visible (I want to see who says "I didn't seen him π)
Every time I use it, I'm amazed I'm dry underneath (the face gets wet).
In any case, even if I don't wear it, I'm unlikely to get soaked, when rain is not that strong. We are not made of sugar!
crosspostated from: https://social.tchncs.de/users/lgsp/statuses/115484700218126774
As someone who's an all-weather cycler, this is not true. You don't get nowhere as wet walking, especially with an umbrella. Also practically everyone owns a raincoat, but nobody owns a bike poncho. If the rain is heavy, visibility at bike speeds is also a significant issue. I once faceplanted because I literally couldn't see a grey bollard in cataclysmic rain.
In case you do that, also bring a fresh pair of socks. Rain has the nasty habit of sneaking into your shoes while dribbling down and there's nothing worse than going the whole day in wet feet.
l second the socks, I always have one readily available in my bike bag.
And since one particular thunderstorm a few years bag: also a fresh pair of underpants. Though that might be overkill for most...
With some nasty weather, I had used a kind of ski mask (called Sturmhaube in German). But at some point I realized it is better to take them off when you enter a bank to fetch money π
I don't think I've ever had wet socks, and I cycle in alle weather.
I just have rain pants that cover the feet, no issues there.
There are also gaiters for that.
you also need water proof pants/shoes/socks. and really good fenders on your bike. most bikes do not have fenders.
covering your upper body is ok in light rain maybe, not not in significant rain.