7 Tips for Walking in the Rain

 Everyone Has Their Preferences, Even When It Comes to Weather

Anyone who enjoys walking knows how humidity, temperature, wind, or rain can impact the day's itinerary in different ways.

So even when the weather seems particularly unfavorable, remember that there’s always a walker who doesn’t wait for the perfect day to lace up their shoes and head out. They simply embrace whatever the climate brings. In fact, they turn challenges into opportunities, finding joy in the most difficult conditions. For them, what many might call “bad weather” is just the “right weather” to do what they love.

It's about testing yourself—defying the weather and the laziness that might otherwise keep you glued to the couch or snuggled under warm blankets. Here are some helpful tips to survive (or almost) even the heaviest downpour.

Protect Your Backpack
Make sure to properly protect the contents of your backpack. One option is to use a large trash bag to line the inside, placing everything—yes, everything, including electronics, sunglasses, and maps—inside it. Alternatively, you can store items in individual waterproof bags, but the result is the same: no matter how soaked you get, you'll have a dry change of clothes waiting for you at the end of the day

Backpack Rain Cover
Your backpack likely came with a rain cover tucked into one of its pockets—use it! Even if you've already put everything into waterproof bags, the cover still adds extra protection. While it may not be fully waterproof, it does provide decent defense against the rain. Remember, a wet backpack weighs much more than a dry one.

Umbrella or Poncho? 

This one really comes down to personal preference. Here's what to consider: a good poncho can be effective but tends to make you sweat. So while you may stay dry from the rain, you'll often end up drenched in your own sweat. An umbrella, on the other hand, shields both your head and backpack without the discomfort of a hood, and doesn't cause sweating. However, in windy conditions, umbrellas provide minimal protection and often break quickly. Likewise, ponchos should also be avoided in strong winds to prevent the dreaded "sail effect."
  

Jacket and Shell
Invest in a good jacket (or shell) with a Gore-Tex lining, but keep in mind that no jacket—except for heavy-duty sailing oilskins—is truly waterproof. Sooner or later, especially after years of use and washes, even the best jacket will let water through, and you’ll get wet along with it.

Boots
To keep your feet dry for as long as possible, treat your boots with the waterproofing product recommended by the manufacturer. Walk in long pants, ideally lightweight but technical, that adequately cover the tops of your boots. Feet usually get wet because water seeps in from above.

Wait
If you find shelter, stop and wait. Rain is rarely continuous; set off again as soon as the weather clears. The secret to staying dry, or at least getting less wet, is to be clever enough to walk between the drops (or at least between the downpours).

Is It Really Worth It?
Sometimes, avoiding the rain is impossible. But if the forecast looks truly grim, don't try to be a hero—consider a plan B. This could be a rest day or a shorter, easier route at a lower elevation. Always weigh your options carefully, consulting the weather forecast to decide if the effort is really worth it.

Don't let the threat of rain spoil your dream of a springtime trip. After all, spring showers are usually brief, and there's always a rainbow waiting just around the corner.