We Found the Perfect Rain Jacket For Bike Commuters

Biking is the best way to get around a city—ring your bell if you agree. Not only does it cut down on traffic congestion, it’s also environmentally friendly, good for your body, and plain ol’ fun. One downside, however, are hairy weather conditions. As we swap wintry mix for unpredictable spring showers, getting the right gear is key to a pleasant—and safe—commute.

Enter North & Mark, a men’s outerwear brand founded by Chicago native Steve Cho in 2017. As the story goes, Cho was freezing on a subway platform when he thought to himself, "Why can’t my wear-to-work outerwear keep me warm and comfortable just like my technical activewear?" The answer—it can.

We got to try out two rain jackets perfectly suited for San Francisco’s fickle weather—one moment the sun is shining, and bluebirds are emerging to tie your shoelaces, and another moment Karl the Fog has rolled in, and rain has drenched the streets. 

Thankfully, the Maxwell Long Stripe Parka ($295) had us covered, literally. The mid-weight, water-resistant rain jacket is made from a three-layer fabric that provides insulation without being smothering, which is a must when you’re working up a sweat. It keeps safety in mind with reversible, reflective cuffs and even a reflective center front placket—we appreciated the dual zippers that can either conceal or reveal this strip. Available in black, navy, or khaki with a contrast stripe, the parka looks at once sporty and sleek, and hangs mid-thigh for optimal coverage.

Rainwear, however, is a balancing act; parkas may not be the best fit for more formal offices, so we also tried on the Broadway Waterproof Overcoat ($195) on for size. Unlike heftier jackets that steam up at the slightest bit of physical activity, the Broadway overcoat is sharp-looking, lightweight, comfortable, and breathable. The fabric has a soft hand with a bit of stretch, and we found the sizing to be spot on.

It may be unfair to ask a rain jacket to do it all—namely, look good, feel good, and perform well, but North & Mark may have just pulled it off. Their coats aren’t cheap, but the quality isn’t either—check back in with us later, but we have a feeling we’ll be sporting these jackets for seasons to come.

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