Comments about Log House Designs Bicycle Cape:

Regular rainwear left me soaked from sweat and not wanting to spend a fortune on breathable rain gear, I thought I would give the cape a try. Works well, although the thigh loops require a little work to get on.

Comments about Log House Designs Bicycle Cape:

When I got this cape, the first thing I noticed was that it didn't have sealed seams. I found it surprising why the manufacturer didn't do this to a piece of rain gear. Another thing I noticed as I was unpacking was that the material is somewhat thick (heavy) compared to my light, non-breathable, vented rain jacket I was hoping to replace with this cape. But that can be a good thing as a heavier material won't flap around too much. It packs down to about the size of 2 soda cans.

This review is based on an hour ride in constant rain, variable wind speed (30 km/h gusts) and direction, with one steep climb during the fall season at 15 degrees Celsius.

Things I liked during this ride:

I stayed mostly dry above the knees. Rain booties are required, and rain pants or gaiters that go above the knees for longer rides. One of my shoulders had a wet line following the seam because my seam-sealing failed at that spot.

My hands were dry, removing the need for waterproof gloves in colder temps.

Good visibility when wearing the hood. It was tightly fastened to my head when I was turning to look behind me.

The thigh bands that keep the cape from blowing about did that well. Bending my legs and stretching the bands over the feet and up the legs isn't too bad.

The brake straps kept the cape firmly in place and over my hands. The cape has a few straps sewn on for compatibility with different bars.

The high-visibility colour.

It just fit me with the thigh and brake straps 'engaged.' I'm 5'11.5" and 145 lbs. It was loose if the thigh straps weren't used. Using both brake and thigh straps made the cape taut.

I didn't have issues with the cape lifting during wind gusts.

Things I didn't like:

The bill is flimsy at best and dangerous at worst. It wilts after some time in the rain and can drop down over your eyes if the hood isn't pulled back a little during headwinds.

As mentioned above, no seam-sealing.

The Velcro closure around the throat is flimsy and will eventually let in some water during heavier rain.

I still experienced that sauna effect after the steep climb, but that would happen even with the best breathable jackets during a heavy workout.

The rubber ducky look.

My drop bar mirror was useless as the cape covered it.

Comments about Log House Designs Bicycle Cape:

Very good alternative to rain suits, allows you to stay fairly dry and not experience the dreaded "rain suit sauna".

Other than the fact that you look like a Rubber Ducky (complete with orange beak...someone has a sense of humor out there!) the only complaint I have with it is that its slightly form fitting across the shoulders and definitely not designed for "gentlemen of substance". That said, this will fit 95% of the cycling population out there.

Comments about Log House Designs Bicycle Cape:

Will use on a C&O canal ride. Needed lightweight, easy to pack protection and got it.

Comments about Log House Designs Bicycle Cape:

As a bike commuter, I keep the poncho handy in my work bag for San Francisco showers. I can fit it over me and my messenger bag. I like the thumb loops in front and the seat post loop in the back so my saddle doesn't get rained on, even when stopped. Other great details include the bill, the bright yellow color and reflective stripes, and the well-fitted, adjustable hood. Unfortunately the material is more H2O-resistant than H2O-proof, especially noticeable in heavier rains. Hopefully, once I seal the seams and spray it with a fabric sealer, this will no longer be a problem. Also, the design seems to reference a rubber duck, but I'm undecided if this is a pro or con.

Comments about Log House Designs Bicycle Cape:

I am using this while bicycle touring. I like it much better than a rain coat. It holds the water off my upper body and legs while not letting me overheat. Also, on a recent leg I found myself running out of water, and I was able to drink rain water as it collected between my arms (don't grimace -- when you are out of water you will drink anything). If this isn't your style a quick flick of the wrists drains the water away. Sometimes the fabric makes an annoying rhythmic scratching noise as you are peddling. It does seem to hinder me when bicycling into the wind.

Comments about Log House Designs Bicycle Cape:

Bright yellow cape means you will be seen in the pouring rain, thumb and leg straps keep cape from billowing too much. It keeps me dry, but i also have a front pack on my bike which stops the rain at my lower legs, so you might still want rain over-pants.

Comments about Log House Designs Bicycle Cape:

cheaper than Gore-Tex and more effective. You can pay more for Carradice, but this does the job. I don't care for the back loop, I would rather have that be a tie, it makes it harder to get the cape on and off, and a bit theatrical. The hood is useless if you ride with a helmet.

Comments about Log House Designs Bicycle Cape:

Can't compare this to others because, to my knowledge, this is the only product of it's type available. The British developed a thorough bicycle touring system in their wet climate, and this cape is key to that system. Oilskin examples can be seen in museums in England.

If you use fenders, you will be much more comfortable in this inexpensive garment than you would in the most expensive miracle-fabric rain suit in any rain, light or heavy. Sweat and condensation are not a problem, any more than it is with an umbrella. It keeps your handlebar bag covered and your seat dry as well. Smaller and lighter than alternatives. Makes me feel like I am bicycling through the rain in my little tent-like shelter. I have toured many weeks with just this, some wool tights and a wool jersey as my weather-gear. Can be used off the bike, too, if you're OK with geek.