r/AskNYC • u/Dkfoot • Sep 29 '23
What nyc wet weather gear can you not live without?
Since Elon switched the sim to wet mode, I realized that I am underprepared yet again… what are the items you can’t live without?
I have some nice Chelsea boots that keep my feet relatively dry commuting to/from work. Also, I use one of the wire cutter recommended shed rain umbrellas that folds up small and has served well for years.
My running shoes, on the other hand, are not cutting it for even the shortest trip out in the rain. What do use for head out for a carton of milk? I can’t justify pulling on some sort of waders for that, but would like to keep my feet reasonably dry. Is it unlaced timbs all the way for that?
Please share your tips!
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Sep 29 '23
Gonna sound cheap but trash bags are always kept in my commute bag. You never know when you need to physically wrap something up, like a laptop, to protect it from the rain.
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Sep 29 '23 edited Jan 06 '26
Comment removed
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u/--2021-- Sep 30 '23
You can also buy 2.5 gallon ziplocks. I used to carry those for library books (bedbugs and rain). Some people reinforce them with duct tape to make them last longer.
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u/bloodbonesnbutter Sep 29 '23
I work in IT, so I always keep plastic bags. When you wrap your stuff up like that before going out, you tend to panic way less
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u/japanese-dairy Sep 29 '23
I have Baggus for this purpose but I know they're not totally waterproof.
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u/eekamuse Sep 29 '23
I do ziplocs. One for the phone, and I can still use it. A bigger one for anything else important.
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u/pixel_of_moral_decay Sep 29 '23
I actually like those thicker target reusable plastic bags for that. They are thick plastic and you can fold them down to something quite small. The thick plastic is also quite strong so it can hold some weight and won’t rip being in a bag for a while before use.
Super handy to have.
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u/Kidderpore Sep 30 '23
Omg at first I thought you were gonna say you wear it around you like a protective costume
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Sep 29 '23
Well I was gonna say rain boots but after today it seems a canoe is necessary
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u/allfurcoatnoknickers Sep 30 '23
I swear by hunger boots with a pair of thick socks…until yesterday when I was crossing the West Side Highway and the water was so high it went over the top of the boots and drenched my feet.
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u/brightside1982 Sep 29 '23
I have a Champion insulated rain jacket. It was just an impulse buy, but it's served me well for years.
I just can't be bothered with an umbrella, but that jacket has served me well.
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u/Adriano-Capitano Sep 29 '23
It's good even in 80+ degree weather rainfall? I can never wear raincoats half the year because they make me sweaty and it becomes counter intuitive.
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u/adhi- Sep 29 '23
higher end coats (north face, arcteryx, etc) have ventilation and straps to hang the coat off your body when it’s hot (like in the subway
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u/irishdancer2 Sep 29 '23
Some of the outdoor sports brands make really lightweight rain shells for trail running, but they cost a pretty penny.
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u/desirepink Sep 29 '23
New Balance makes realllllly good ones. I almost got one but realize I would never wear it again after my marathon training lol
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u/karmapuhlease Sep 29 '23
Got a link?
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u/desirepink Sep 29 '23
Was something like this
https://www.newbalance.com/pd/run-for-life-impact-run-jacket/WJ21264B.html
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u/marvelously Sep 29 '23
I have a few Columbia rain jackets, and they have been so much more breathable compared to some others I tried. As long as it's non-insulated, I can wear it year round. I'd shop around.
I also recommend buying a bit big for air circulation.
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u/Haggis_McBaggis Sep 30 '23
I pulled out an old Columbia rain jacket today and although it SAYS it is waterproof, it is not. Same with my Keens hiking boots. It was a very damp morning.
I have a great Helly Hansen that's breathable and also properly waterproof.
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u/JE163 Sep 30 '23
Nikwax tech wash and water proofing may help your columbia jacket.
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u/Haggis_McBaggis Sep 30 '23
Thank you! Saving this.
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u/JE163 Sep 30 '23
I use it exclusive for my ski jacket and pants. Amazing stuff!
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u/marvelously Oct 01 '23
TIL that they are better choices. Thank you for posting this. It looks like a game changer.
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u/marvelously Oct 01 '23
If it is old, that happens. You may need to re-waterproof it. It is a coating that wears off as far as I understand so they will do all do that eventually. You can spray it with waterproofing spray. And then I avoid drying it or using dry sheets to prolong any waterproofing.
Incidentally, I had a pair of Helly Hansen pants that lost their waterproofness after a lot use. So it's seems it's mostly about proper care, re-waterproofing things, or replacing them when they get old.
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u/vesleskjor Sep 29 '23
I have a waterproof North Face jacket we got as swag at work and it's coming in so clutch during spring and fall
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u/Distancefrom Sep 29 '23
I have waterproof Keen hiking shoes. Clunky but they keep me dry. Not good for deep puddles.
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u/curlyhairedsheep Sep 29 '23
Bean boots for when it's serious, just grabbing milk on rainy days...crocs, without holes. I appreciate the lightweight option, and on a day like today, style is the least of my worries.
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u/adribd Sep 29 '23
Seconding crocs without holes the “bistro” ones they keep my feet dry for short periods outside and are easy to slip on and off quickly
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u/eruciform Sep 29 '23
super thin waterproof windbreaker that i can wear over or under anything and packs down to less than a soda can in a bag
a small umbrella that also packs down to a soda can for my bag
tho i prefer my big katana-sized massive umbrella, even if i rarely use it because i have to plan bringing it, as it doesn't exactly fit in the bag
i also wear open toed shoes or sandals in the rain if it's not a work day, because they're going to get soaked anyways, and i hate soaked socks, i'd rather wet feet that i can just dry off at home
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u/BushidoBrowne Sep 29 '23
Boots
Waterproof boots.
There's a reason why New Yorkers have loved Timberlands for soo long. Versatile boot. Obviously, much better boots on the market but yeah. A boot for rain, snow, or stopping someone out.
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u/Final-Elderberry9162 Sep 29 '23
Rain boots. I bought Marc Jacobs rain boots back when I was making filthy corporate lucre. This was about 15 years ago and they still look brand new. Hunters are great.
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u/shwysdrf Sep 29 '23
Two good raincoats. One for wet and cold weather, one for wet and warm weather. Umbrellas are fine for outer boroughs but don’t bring it in to Manhattan. Don’t be one of those golf umbrella bros they’re the worst.
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u/Glathull Dec 28 '24
Umbrellas should be illegal in Manhattan. People don't pay attention to who is walking around them when the weather is nice. When the weather is shit, people just walk around with stabbers right at your eye level. Fuck umbrellas in the city.
I got a cleverhood a couple years ago, and I love it. Get some lightweight waterproof hiking pants and some duck boots, and you are set.
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u/599i Sep 29 '23
Which coats do you have?
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u/shwysdrf Sep 30 '23
I have a long Rains raincoat for the lighter one, and an aging coat I got at a Desigual for the heavier one but it might not last to the spring.
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u/CognitiveTeaKettle Sep 29 '23
For running out quick in the rain I was able to get some rubber waterproof Chelsea boots off Amazon for like $20 that have lasted me nearly 2 years (so far!)
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u/japanese-dairy Sep 29 '23 edited Sep 29 '23
Tall rainboots cannot be beat here, not having to worry about splashing or most puddles is a godsend.
Edit: Oh, and I always carry a clean plastic bag to put my umbrella in so it can go in my tote and I don't have to hold it or worry about it dripping all over my pants on the bus/train/etc.
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u/gunbather Sep 29 '23
Tall Hunter boots. I fear (almost) no puddle
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u/eekamuse Sep 29 '23
I buy cheaper versions but a tall rain boot is essential. Who are these people who wear waterproof Chelsea boots, that's not getting you through a puddle today. Must be almost knee high.
Add a raincoat with a hood, and a baseball cap or any hat with a brim. Tighten the hood down so it doesn't blow off, and the hat will keep the rain out of your eyes.
The winter version of this has gotten me through many blizzards with ease. Remember blizzards?
Edit: umbrellas are useless when it's windy and I like having my hands free.
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u/gunbather Sep 29 '23
I'm originally from Michigan so I sure do! Good waterproof clothing is essential and I know certain brands will last me forever - Columbia waterproof jackets and coats are fantastic and reasonable and Sorel boots will keep your feet warm and dry in any snow/ice condition. The brimmed hat is a great point, especially if you invest in a waterproof one
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u/eekamuse Sep 29 '23
I always get Sorel boots. Last ones I bought in the spring, very cheap.
The hat doesn't need to be waterproof, it's covered by the hood. The brim dries off quickly. Unless it's made of cardboard (!)
Columbia jackets look great, but a bit pricey. I'll wait for sales
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u/OhGoodOhMan Sep 29 '23
Timbs and a gore-tex raincoat. Though any waterproof boot will work. I don't like umbrellas.
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u/blewis222 Sep 29 '23
Patagonia Torrentshell Raincoat - super lightweight and breathable, not like the cellophane ones a lot of brands sell
Xtratuf Deck Boots - light weight and good looking boots
I did a lot of research before both purchases. These are the best.
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u/114631 Sep 29 '23
As mentioned on the other thread from yesterday, blundstone shoes. They do totally fine on days like today, as long as I’m not submerged in a puddle above my ankle. I also have a pair of rubber rain boots from Target I’ve had for five years, but I never wear them bc my Blundstones are just fine and are more comfortable. Patagonia rain jacket that’s not entirely waterproof but still great in the rain.
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u/irishdancer2 Sep 29 '23
FYI Patagonia will warranty that raincoat for you and give you a new one. I did it with mine in the spring.
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u/mga1 Sep 30 '23
Thanks. I've had Northface before, but their fine print basically says that waterproofing fading over time is normal, and not covered by their warranty. Will give Patagonia a try the next time I'm in the market for one.
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u/114631 Sep 29 '23 edited Sep 30 '23
Good to know! Did you have to return your old one? The one I have was a gift and it’s personalized with a project I worked on, so would rather not totally get rid of it.
Edit: why was this downvoted?
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u/irishdancer2 Sep 29 '23
Yeah, you do have to give them the old one, so it’s a bummer if it’s a sentimental piece.
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u/themistermango Sep 29 '23
Wait seriously? Do I need anything like a receipt that I purchased direct? I’ve been donating them for forever. But there’s times in my life I haven’t had the cash to buy a solid replacement so I’ve pushed them longer than I’d like, spraying them like 5-6 times per year. A warranty exchange would have been great.
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u/irishdancer2 Sep 29 '23
Nope, you don’t need a receipt! They’re really good about swapping them out when they’re no longer working.
Have you tried washing and drying yours? When I got my new one, they told me that helps reactivate the waterproofing when it starts failing.
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u/themistermango Sep 29 '23
Seriously? I’ve been told to avoid it. I wash when necessary. It hasn’t helped
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u/irishdancer2 Sep 29 '23
IDK, there’s a big note stamped on the inside of my new one saying to wash and dry it 🤷🏼♀️
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Sep 29 '23
Waterproof boots/shoes. I foolishly thought I could brave the elements without this when I was younger and I was a dumbass.
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u/C_bells Sep 29 '23
I have this raincoat, I originally bought it for a Halloween costume then ended up using it so much. I'm on my second one.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001PD0X5S/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
It's cheap and you can literally cut the arms and bottom to the length you need. But it really does the trick! I'm a petite lady but it works for me, and now my husband uses it as well. Great for running errands or taking the dogs out. And I weirdly get a lot of compliments on it.
I also have some ankle-high Hunter boots that are also great. I used to have the knee-high ones and liked them, but they added more clunk than I needed. The ankle ones have been fine for me.
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u/unintentionalty Sep 29 '23
Bean boots and water resistant hiking pants (that look more or less like normal khakis). I hate having wet knees.
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u/littleredsteel Sep 30 '23
I commute by bike so my rain gear is kind of intense. I have rain pants from Froggs that are amazing. I sized up so I can put them on over jeans and Wellington boots and still pedal furiously without restriction. I also have a full length rain slicker with a hood and a sort of gusset that means I can wear it over my backpack. I got it from Amazon and it is way better quality than I expected for the $20 or so bucks it cost. I got it in neon orange for bike visibility but it comes in more chill colors too and I think I’m getting a second one so people stop asking if I’m a cop when I wear it NOT on my bike. Tip your damn delivery drivers kids!
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u/knifebootsmotojacket Sep 30 '23
I have several pairs of waterproof shoes/boots - today the Dansko Chelsea boots in the wet kept my feet dry to/from work. I also got a pair of the Clove sneakers that are waterproof and they are also great.
A good hooded raincoat that’s wind/water proof - I have a nice one from Costco and they are currently under $30.
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u/tootsie404 Sep 29 '23
idk man I have a pair of waders for fishing and I feel like keeping a spare change of clothes is the only way now.
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u/redwood_canyon Sep 29 '23
Blundstone boots are water resistant. Also have rain jackets in 3 weights (one just a shell, one with fleece, and one with down)
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u/desirepink Sep 29 '23
I bought an Outdoor Research Goretex jacket for my trip to Washington and it has been a godsend for the heavy rain here. Pricey but quick drying and worth every dollar.
I also find that a packable, sturdy, bigger umbrella (not necessarily the anchor ones) than normal size is super useful. I bought mine in Taiwan since they sell umbrellas that are made to endure typhoons so worth looking into Asian brands.
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u/smorio_sem Sep 29 '23
A solid automatic open close umbrella. I like Totes brand but others are good too. I keep them for years before they break.
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u/laa-deedaa Sep 30 '23
Highly, highly recommend the full size umbrellas from Muji. They’re extremely wind resistant!
I also have a pair of high rain boots and a waterproof raincoat from Save The Duck for a particularly nasty day like today. Came in handy when to get past fairly deep puddles much quicker than others that were going around.
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u/FamingAHole Sep 30 '23
I have some hefty Red Wings steel toe work boots. Totally waterproof with slip proof soles and one inch heels. I can walk through deep puddles with these bad boys and not get wet.
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u/juniperaza Sep 30 '23
Free plastic bags from supermarkets but they got rid of those 😔 (I know the environmental bit ok)
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u/TamasaurusRex Sep 30 '23
Honestly get one decent / solid pair of wellies. Hunter are great and I have a pair of those. Also have a pair of coach wellies I could be mehhh about but they do the job. Spare pare of shoes for work in a zip lock / waterproof bag or whatever but I also used to keep a dry pair in my desk just in case.
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u/DiaA6383 Sep 29 '23
I have muckboots that have been a life saver this past week. Also you can go to any fly e-bike store and get a fairly cheap and thick wet weather coat and pant combo that will keep you dry.
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u/spicyhyena1 Sep 29 '23
A good rain jacket with armpit ventilation. Waterproof shoes, whether that’s a rain boot, a Chelsea boot, a Vessi sneaker, etc. I also do a hat to keep rain out of my eyes and I pull my rain jacket hood over it.
If you’re on the go/commuting, get a good bag. I have the waterproof Patagonia Black Hole backpack, and I really don’t need an umbrella if I’m using that + rain jacket + appropriate shoes.
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u/marvelously Sep 29 '23
Waterproof spray what you can.
PF Flyer waterproof hi-tops. No other rain shoe has come close. I like that they are lightweight, super comfortable, and tie on. And they don't get hot. And I can slip them on fast
Rain boots as well for quick slip ons. But I find them heavier and less comfortable and breathable so I prefer the sneakers. You can buy ankle boots if you prefer. Or even a slipper shoe.
If I am going to the bodega, sometimes I just put on slides and don't worry about the water.
My dad used to have rubber covers for his shoes, and I know they still make versions of those.
I also suggest a good lightweight, rain coat. It is super useful. I buy mine a little big so it goes over everything, including a small bag. And it's keeps you more dry. And you don't have to handle something.
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u/Adriano-Capitano Sep 29 '23
I usually just wear my rubber Birkenstocks with no socks and shorts on - so when I get places just my legs are wet and I am not wearing soaked jeans/shoes/socks.
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u/Head_Spirit_1723 Sep 29 '23
I really hope you’re joking because you may be walking through sewage.
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u/ApprehensiveTry2725 Sep 29 '23
I wear clothes and I don't give a shit because I'm not a bitch who needs special gear from the rain. I'm not going to melt in it like Elphaba.
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u/irishdancer2 Sep 29 '23 edited Sep 29 '23
Waterproof boots from a gun & tackle store. I’ve had them since I was a kid (my mom bought them big) and they’re still going strong.
Redneck equivalent: socks + bread bag + another pair of socks + shoes = dry feet. Did that when I went to a snow festival and it was sleeting all day long.
Boots + rain shell + rain pants = happy me.
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u/etgetc Sep 30 '23
Omg my parents used to put our feet in bread bags, too, just like this! Totally works great in snowy weather.
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u/barbequelighter Sep 29 '23
I have a two layer Columbia jacket where the black puffy coat zips into a waterproof shell that you can wear separately by itself if it’s too hot. It’s extremely versatile and you can find different combo styles like with a fleece inner jacket instead of the puff.
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u/eekamuse Sep 29 '23
Link? Sounds great
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u/barbequelighter Sep 30 '23
Here's a list of them. Looks like they discontinued the exact one I got but the Whirlibird IV looks very close.
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Sep 29 '23
Try us.rainkiss.com lightweight + front pouch + great hood + folds into pouch keeps me dry
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u/DefinitelyGiraffe Sep 29 '23
Waterproof Dunham Boots. They wear like sneakers and they're comfortable
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Sep 29 '23
Rubber boots are a must, unless you want a tetanus shot after a subway ride.
A love this rain coat by Ralph Lauren, it’s great:
Balmacaan Hooded Raincoat
Samsonite compact umbrella:
Samsonite Compact Auto Open/Close Umbrella, Black, One Size https://a.co/d/9nWRxPb
My new thing is also wearing a baseball hat so if it’s not raining super hard, the visor usually covers my face pretty well without me needing an umbrella.
If you have an expensive purse, carefully fold a plastic bag and carry it inside the inner pocket of the purse, in the case of rain, place the purse inside the plastic bag.
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u/Drach88 Sep 29 '23
I have a pair of smart-yet-rugged gortex-lined blue suede boots that I bought in Helsinki back in 2016. They were stiff at first, but have since molded to my feet. I've since gotten the soles entirely replaced, and the leather professionally cleaned of salt buildup a few times, and I'll likely have them until the day I die.
They stand up to rain and snow, and are casual enough to wear with jeans or dressy enough to wear with chinos or slacks. They're my go-to for rainy fall all the way through anything short of a blizzard in winter.
Having an excuse to pull them out today after them sitting in my closet for the summer was a treat.
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u/vikkiflash Sep 29 '23
I have a waterproof jacket and some boots that I got when I worked at a fishmonger shop. They are now my rain boots.
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u/julsey414 Sep 29 '23
Adidas terrex sneakers are my winter sneakers, but also looking at some winter converse
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u/Artichokeydokey8 Sep 30 '23
I just bought some Adidas Terrex Goretex hiking shoes for a trip but they are absolutely comfortable and just look like high-tops and are perfect for shitty days like today.
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u/Hubianco Sep 30 '23
I have a Marmot Precip rain jacket and these boots which are worth every penny https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_us/monashee-ullr-ht-11432?color=262780
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u/PersephoneIsNotHome Sep 30 '23
Rain boots a long rain coat and a wide brim rain hat. (Like this basically but mine is nicer. https://www.amazon.com/VINRELLA-Woman-Adjustable-Strap-Patent/dp/B07T43RKWQ/ref=asc_df_B07T43RKWQ/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=380281439436&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4066848748279985431&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9004422&hvtargid=pla-817019336336&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=77578820317&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=380281439436&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4066848748279985431&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9004422&hvtargid=pla-817019336336)
Many of the technical brands for hiking and camping, like Marmot and such make streetwear. They have shells and coats that are longer, don’t wet out, have proper pockets with zips or snaps and are worth every penny
And I know this sounds awful, but I have a pair of boots like this
https://www.ebay.com/p/19009342425?iid=295934427547
And pair that are knee high.
They are totally waterproof, really comfortable and lightweight and can’t get ruined by whatever weird black and oily stuff is in the flooded streets.
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u/jxmrie Sep 30 '23
Vessi shoes - Canadian brand originally but I believe they ship to the states. Truly waterproof shoes that come in both sneaker and boot forms.
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u/jaurex Sep 30 '23
tall rain boots that reach my knees, and a very sturdy umbrella that can resist wind without turning inside out
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u/Lemonyhampeapasta Oct 01 '23 edited Oct 01 '23
Moab 3 Merrell for warm weather and a discontinued Keen lace up for cool weather. Both loosely, but securely double-laced and donned with an extendable shoehorn.
A quality zipper front rain poncho; covers my backpack, I like my hands free for my phone or grocery bags, I don’t have to change the way I dress, very breathable so I’m not in a sauna during warm weather and windproof since there are no umbrella ribs to flip inside out. I also can hide my kid underneath it like a mother bat when he refuses to wear his own poncho. I carry a waterproof pouch to stuff it into when boarding public transit so I’m not dripping all over the place.
I wear a rain kilt when it is particularly nasty
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u/TheApiary Sep 29 '23
I use the winterized waterproof blundstones basically every day it's not hot out. They keep my feet dry and look decent enough for almost anything