I could probably handle freezing my butt off if I was shivering on the side of the road (and maybe while holding on to a flask of hot coffee). I’m a tough guy like that.
But ask me to drive my Harley as I’m drenched head to toe, going at 60mph with frostbite creeping on my internal organs? Yeah, I’d rather sell my bike and my left foot.
Okay – maybe I’m being a little dramatic. But this product review was personal to me. I’ve been looking for the perfect rain gear for a really long time. I wanted one that won’t let a single drop of water in me, so I can stay warm and toasty on the inside, but also with some bend and flex to it: so that I don’t feel like I’m drowning in a large PVC camping tent.
Luckily, this time I think we’ve struck gold. Here are the top 7 best motorcycle rain gears of 2021. They all exceeded my expectations: but I’m partial to the Frogg Toggs Hogg Togg Rain suit (try saying that five times in front of your father-in-law). Don’t forget to check out the Buying Guide and FAQs section at the end.
Top 7 Best Motorcycle Rain Gear 2022
1. Frogg Toggs Hogg Togg Rain Suit
Our Top Pick
My top pick goes to the Frogg Toggs Rain Suit: it’s your sole armor during heavy downpours. This thing feels high quality as soon as you wear it, and it’s made from waterproof breathable polypropylene fabric. You won’t sweat in this suit, it’s still pretty comfortable while keeping you dry.
I really like the packaging: it comes in a nice saddle bag that’s compact and easy to carry around. This was also the best fitting rain suit I tried on, it’s not too bulky and doesn’t look like you’re wrapped in a couple of garbage bags. As long as you choose the right size, the suit is quite form-fitting and snug. You can also make it fit you better, with outer pockets and adjustable cuffs.
The jacket features mesh lining in certain areas for more ventilation. It’s also quite windproof: the fabric isn’t going to billow around at high wind speeds. The pants feature heat panels around the inner thighs that protect the legs from the hotter parts of your motorcycle.
There’s also reflective striping all over: this looks great and adds to the safety quotient (makes you more visible). This rain suit doesn’t have a lot of the fancy extra features that other rain gears on this list do (such as melt-resistant plates in the Joe Rocket RS2), but I think it’s an overall solid purchase.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Breathable material
- Wind resistant
- Heat panels
- Convenient packaging
Cons:
- Doesn’t have collar protection
- No hoodie
Suitable for:
This is a great buy for just about anyone looking for durable and high-quality motorcycle rain gear. You’ll particularly like this gear if you don’t want anything fancy, but want something reliable to last for years together.
2. Tourmaster Defender
Best High-End Rain Suit/ Best Premium Rain Suit
Tourmaster has been one of the more well-known brands for motorcycle gear: and I was truly blown away by the two-piece rain suit Defender model. Though it’s on the higher-end in terms of the price range, it’s definitely value for investment.
The jacket has a soft polyester outer shell coating for added protection against water, while the inner layer is made of heavy-duty nylon. Additionally, the aqua barrier just below the helmet area protects it from seeping water around the neck area. This is a feature that I didn’t find in any other rain gear: blocking water from entering around the collar area is definitely useful. All these features come together to prevent any water seepage from anywhere.
I found this rain suit to be one of the warmest on the list. The multiple layers provide protection against colder temperatures while it’s raining, without feeling suffocating. It’s definitely warmer than most of the other rain gears on this list (warmer than the Frogg Toggs Hogg Togg, in fact!).
For better breathability, there’s a polyester mesh to increase the air circulation around your body. You also get under-arm vents for more airflow. Additionally, there are high-quality reflective stripes and the Tourmaster’s signature triangle reflectors on the back for visibility at night. All in all, a great product that’s value-for-money.
Pros:
- Completely waterproof and keeps you dry
- Multiple layers for warmth
- Reflective stripes for visibility
- Breathable fabric
- Vents and mesh inlays
- Convenient storage
Cons:
- Not affordable for everyone
- Doesn’t come with shoe wrap
Suitable for:
If you ride your motorcycle a lot, especially during the rainy months: you’ll need a high-quality motorcycle rain suit that doesn’t give in mid-ride. This is perfect for someone who rides a lot and is also a great choice if you’re riding in cold weather.
3. Swisswell
Best Budget Rain Gear
Made of 100% polyester, this budget motorcycle rain suit does a very good job of keeping the water at bay. With a WP index of 3000, it is certified to wick the moisture away from the surface as soon as it gets wet. To take it to the next level, the company has also taped all seams, zips, and the hood section. The taping definitely helps the water resistance.
When it comes to breathability, the insides are also covered with a mesh. The mesh itself is made up of a soft fiber that won’t cause any irritation to your skin. Additionally, the jacket can act as a windbreaker too. I definitely liked how soft the mesh fabric felt, but I don’t think this motorcycle rain suit will be much protection against cold wind.
Lastly, the jacket itself is very lightweight, since it contains nothing else but polyester. This is great for staying ventilated (not so much for staying warm). This suit doesn’t have any heat-protective panels like the Frogg Toggs Hogg Togg or the Tourmaster Defender.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Waterproof jacket pants
- Breathable mesh lining
- Elastic waistband / Adjustable waist
Cons:
- Not very warm
- Zipper issues
Suitable for:
If you don’t find yourself motorcycle riding during rain often, but want to prepare for a… rainy day, this is a great option. It’s a quick, budget purchase and has satisfactory quality and features that are great for occasional use.
4. Joe Rocket RS2
Best Rain Gear for Women
This two-piece rain suit is specially designed for women. The RS2 from Joe Rocket is one of the best rain suits on the market for women (even though many suits are unisex, they don’t always fit as well).
The outer shell of the RS2 is made from polyester that has the best protection against water, and a PVC coating for wind protection and thermal retention. There are also velcro cuffs for the wrists and collar to protect seepage. Breathability won’t be an issue too, considering it has a soft corduroy-lined collar. On the other parts, nylon is used to line the seams.
I particularly liked that the melt-resistant plates on the areas which come close to the engine and pipes (inner thigh area on the rain pants). This is seldom found in any product of this price range.
Pros:
- Specially designed for women
- Melt-resistant plates
- Two large outer pockets
- Waterproof zipper
- Elastic Waist drawstring
- Reflective piping
Cons:
- Could be more reflective piping
- May need to size up
Suitable for:
If you’re a female motorcycle rider, you know that not all rain gear claiming to be unisex fits women well. This is the perfect rain suit if you’re looking for something snug-fitting, water-resistant with an adjustable waist.
5. Coleman PVC Rain Suit
Most Durable Rain Suit
Alright, I have to be honest. I didn’t have the best first impression of this sport rain suit. The other motorcycle rain jackets on the list have cooler designs, reflective piping, and vibrant colors. This one looked a little bit like the janitor of all motorcycle rain gear. But then I tried it on.
It is incredibly comfortable, and the rain pants have a straight-leg fit that is very roomy (especially on top of my motorcycle gear. It’s also the only rain suit on this list that I can see myself wearing for other outdoor activities (this would be perfect for camping and fishing, especially because of the camo color).
The product is a 2 piece rain suit that weighs just one pound and can easily be stored on your bike. Also, the seams are sealed by using heat, so that you don’t worry about water coming in through them. The suit itself is made from nylon but has PVC baked into it to provide that waterproofness. Furthermore, the design can fit both men and women.
The PVC material is also completely waterproof while trapping in some heat. I wouldn’t wear this in hot weather. It’s a bit breathable, but not too much. This is one of the most durable options out there: I have a friend who’s been using this rain suit for five years now.
The Coleman PVC/Nylon rain suit also comes with a hoodie that can be adjusted using a drawstring. The hoodie is a coveted feature when it comes to motorcycle rain suits: some of the more pricey suits don’t have them. Additionally, the arm and leg cuffs are also snap adjustable. The only disadvantage we could find was that it doesn’t come with any reflective strips for visibility in darkness (but that’s also what makes this multi-purpose)
Pros:
- Multi-purpose rain suit
- Heat retention
- Adjustable cuffs
- Hoodie
- Lightweight
- Completely waterproof
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Neutral color
- No reflective piping
Suitable for:
If you’re the kind of no-frills person who prefers function over form, you’ll love the Coleman Rain Suit. It’s practical, durable, and an affordable, reliable option.
6. Wicked Stock One-Piece Rain Suit
Best One-Piece Rain Suit
I’m not a big fan of one-piece rain gears, but if you’re looking for that: this Wicked Stock product is a true one-piece rain gear that covers you all the way to your legs. It comes in only one color (neon green) and is intended to be worn by racing or touring bike owners.
Many users complain of one-piece suits being difficult to wear, however, that won’t be a problem with the Wicked Stock rain suit. With a diagonal zip feather, it’s a breeze to put on and take off.
Also, the suit is very generous in fit, allowing you to access the gear under the rain suit with ease. The whole suit is completely made up of PVC. While that is good for waterproof, we can’t say the same thing about breathability. So, don’t wear this in warmer temperatures.
Features include a storm flap that is extremely durable and of industrial-grade, an adjustable neck, and an elastic waist.
However, there are no elastic or velcro elements in the wrist or ankle area. Instead, you get a gusset at the leg cuffs. Also included is a large cargo sack where you can store your essentials and protect them from the rain.
Pros:
- Waterproof materials
- One-piece design
- Leg cuff gusset
- Full length zipper (diagonal)
Cons:
- Sizing runs small
Suitable for:
If you love the convenience of a one-piece rain suit, you’ll really appreciate the Wicked Stock one-piece. It’s perfect for the intended purpose, getting in to rain gear quickly and keeping you completely dry.
7. ILM Rain Suit
Best Quick-Drying Rain Suit
ILM is a popular brand among bikers, and this particular product is no exception. It has something other suits don’t: a full frontal zipper and a double waterproofed snap-down storm flap. These two factors alone make it is one of the best motorcycle rain gear options. But what really stayed with me is how quick drying this suit is.
The product is a two-piece suit that has a seamless design. The waterproofing is of top-notch quality since the material used is not porous (even on a nanoscale). Additionally, there are pockets on the suit too, and they are also seamless and waterproof. If you care about the environment, you’ll be happy to know that the nano fabric used is eco-friendly and doesn’t take a toll on the environment during production and disposal.
The upper piece comes with a hoodie, and the jacket protects you from wind and water. Furthermore, the ankles and wrist areas are protected using buckles and elastic velcro straps. The product does come in different sizes and is suitable for both men and women.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly production
- Nano fiber
- Breathable
- Quick-drying
- Seamless design
- Two outer pockets 4
Cons:
- Sizing runs large
Suitable for:
If you need the convenience of multiple pockets, this rain suit has 6 outer pockets. It’s also one of the quickest drying suits on our list, making it perfect for riding in weather that quickly changes.
Why You Should Buy The Best Motorcycle Rain Gear
Rain gear should be your go-to choice when dealing with bad weather during rides. They go a long way in helping you stay safe from cars and other automobiles on the road.
Staying warm and dry not only protects you from health issues and the biting cold but also enables you to concentrate on more important things — like the road and your riding. Also, other drivers will be able to see you much better thanks to the rain gear (reflective piping).
Rain gear like waterproof gloves and boots losing the grip on the throttle or handlebar, while keeping your regular riding gear in better shape.
Types Of Motorcycle Rain Gear
1. One Piece Suits
One-piece suits are the preferred type of rain gear for many motorcycle enthusiasts. This is because of the stellar rain protection that they offer.
If someone is looking for rain protection as their main priority (in case their bike doesn’t have a fairing or windshield), then their search should stop at one-piece suits. However, one-piece suits are bulkier than any other type of rain cover and will take up more of the limited storage space on your bike.
2. Two-Piece Suits
If you want the ease of use, flexibility, and are short on space, two-piece suits should be the best motorcycle rain suits for you. One of the primary advantages of two-piece suits are that they can be used for other outdoor activities as well, such as fishing or camping.
You can always just take the jacket along if you don’t need the pants. Moreover, two-piece suits take up a lot less space than one-piece suits. On the flip side, they don’t offer the best rain protection and can be more prone to wind flapping.
Factors To Consider Before Buying Best Motorcycle Rain Gear
1. Waterproof-ness
The sole cause of using a rain cover is so that you can protect yourself from rain. Hence, the topmost priority that you should give is related to how well the suit can repel water. While all rain gear is waterproof, some have better capabilities than others.
While most rain gear products use water-repelling material that doesn’t let water droplets permeate the surface, some of them miss the mark in the seams and cuffs. Seams that aren’t glued or tightly sewn can leak in water, as well as loose wrist cuffs, ankle cuffs, and collars.
2. Size
Size is another important factor that decides how well you are protected from the rain. Loose rain gear can be disastrous, as water can seep in through small openings in the suit. Also, it should not be so tight, that it cannot fit over your normal motorcycle gear. Somewhere in the middle would be perfectly fine.
Another important consideration is regarding how easy it is to wear and take off. Complex gear like some of the one-piece suits can be a huge task to wear when you get caught in sudden rain. Large suits also get in your way while riding the bike.
3. Visibility
Along with protection from rain and making it more comfortable to ride, rain gears also help in ensuring your safety in tough weather conditions. Visibility is something that goes a long way in making sure you are seen by other automobile drivers since there’s likely mist and clouds during a rainstorm.
Lack of visibility is one of the main causes of motorcycle accidents in the rain, through no fault of their own. Retro-reflective items on your jacket help in increasing visibility. Another way of doing that is by using neon or other bright colors in the suit.
4. Breathability
Although not a big factor for short rides, the breathability of the material being used becomes extremely important in long rides. Rain gear that is not actually breathable can make you sweat a lot because there isn’t enough breathability in the fabric and no circulation of air.
In the long run, it can get pretty uncomfortable with rain pouring down on you and zero body moisture going out. PVC material that is used in rain gear is not very breathable and is usually used along with other materials for more circulation. But if you’re riding in really cold temperatures, you might actually be grateful for less breathability, because this will trap in your body heat and keep you warm.
5. Heat-Resistant Panels
If you have ridden motorcycles before, you would have noticed that the exhaust pipes and the engine lie very close to your legs and thighs. PVC is water-resistant, but not heat-resistant. Keeping this in mind, many manufacturers have incorporated heat-resistant panels near vulnerable areas to protect your legs and the gear.
FAQs on Motorcycle Rain Gear
1. Why do I get wet inside my motorcycle rain gear?
You might be thinking that rainwater is seeping through your jacket when you’re riding in the rain. However, your rain gear might be completely waterproof and you still get wet inside. That’s actually because your rain gear is not breathable enough, and your skin is sweating inside without the air ventilation. You’d be surprised that you can still sweat in very cold temperatures. Try opting for breathable fabrics when shopping for motorcycle rain gear.
2. How can I measure myself for motorcycle rain gear? How do I choose a size?
Rain gear is usually designed to be worn on top of conventional biking gear. That’s why you should buy a bigger size than your regular clothing size. You’d have noticed that a lot of product reviews suggest you size up. That’s why it’s always a good idea to measure your body dimensions and compare them with the size dimensions mentioned in the product description.
3. How do I protect my feet while riding through the rain?
There are two ways you can do this: waterproof motorcycle riding boots, or waterproof shoe covers. If you ride in the rain a lot, it’s better to invest in riding boots that are waterproof, to begin with. If you don’t want to get a new pair of boots, you can achieve a similar result with an outer layer of waterproof shoe cover. Ensure that there’s no extra room around the ankle cuff and shoe opening for the rain to get in.
4. How do I take care of my rain gear so it lasts longer?
Rain gear should always be gently washed (preferably hand-washed) and dried under indirect sunlight. Washing and drying them in a machine with laundry detergent can cause the protective layer to come off.
5. Should I buy a one-piece rain suit or a two-piece rain suit?
Both of these options are great for different kinds of riders. If you ride your motorcycle through the rain really often, you might be better off with a one-piece rain suit that offers complete protection to you and your motorcycle. Remember that they are more difficult to get into, so opt for a one-piece suit with an easy-wear diagonal zip like the Wicked Stock one-piece suit.
A two-piece rain suit is much more versatile — you can wear it fishing and camping, and it’s also easier to store and put on quickly. The Tourmaster Defender is a great option.
Conclusion
Getting a rain suit is an essential part of your motorcycle riding gear. You’re bound to get stuck in rain at least once in a while, and it really helps to be prepared. It pays off to invest in rain gear that is durable and high-quality and can make the world of a difference when it comes to staying dry, warm, and visible to other riders.
