bikelovejones

(Note: this is an unsolicited review.)

I purchased a pair of Rainlegs about a year ago, to test as a potential product that my shop might carry.
(I have been the shop's rainwear buyer for several years and am always on the lookout for good stuff.)

I have used the Rainlegs quite often as a convenient alternative to full rain pants.

Here's my report after nearly a year of use. Use averaged one to three times a week during Portland's roughly 6-month rainy season.

1. Water resistance: C-
The material is a nylon parachute-type fabric that is coated from underneath with a very light water-proofing. In addition, the seams are taped. On any ride in light to medium rain that lasted longer than about 15 minutes, the rain began to seep directly through the fabric. After an hour my pant legs began to get noticably wet under the Rainlegs. Since the garment is advertised as "water proof", this was a disappointment. The Rainlegs are sold by size to accommodate different leg lengths. (My size Mediums, in hindsight, are a tiny bit short for my legs; but at 5' 7" I have unusually long thighs so knickers and other such things are hard for me to fit anyway.)

2. Durability: B-
After a year of use the fabric sealant has begun to wear away, and the seam tape (which was applied over the top of the fabric coating) has begun to pull away at the edges. On a positive note, the top mesh panel, designed for ease of use in rolling up and storing the garment more compactly, is still in good shape a year later -- though I admit that about half the time I'm more incline to just mash the garment into a wad and stuff it into my saddlebag than to actually roll it up neatly with the snaps provided. Considering that this garment retails for over 50 dollars US, I had hoped for something a bit more durable.

3. Design. B+/A-
The overall cut and fit of the garment is generally good. If I wanted to be picky I would try to solve the issue of the crotch area getting caught on the nose of my saddle; but I can deal with that as I ride and it's not a huge issue. It becomes a larger issue when I dismount; the inside thigh sometimes get caught on the saddle as I dismount, making for a potentially hazardous situation if I have to dismount in a hurry, in traffic. On the bike they seem just fine; and with a better, more truly waterproof fabric they would be an excellent alternative to full pants. I also appreciated the reflective material on the strip that wraps just above the knee.

My old Burley rain pants, hassle though they are to put on and take off, are more durable and more truly waterproof, even after SEVEN seasons of regular use. I'm not looking for the same level of durabiulity in what is more honestly a boutique, convenience item; but better waterproofness would sure be nice.

In summary: A good idea, but it needs more work before I'd buy another pair.

(Note: Rainlegs are advertised as coming from Holland -- that's where they were designed and where the company is based -- but they are manufactured in China.)