Shelter from the storm

Often I would mentally note places to take shelter when storms threatened to interrupt my day’s ride. Eventually I learned to carry rain gear simply because a rider can’t depend upon finding an overpass when it’s needed. While most rain suits function better than improvised garbage bags, some are better than others.

Hogg Toggs are a redesigned version of Frogg Toggs. Constructed of three layers of polypropylene film that has been perforated with tiny holes 20,000 times smaller than a water drop, this rain gear is breathable and guaranteed to stay dry at any speed. Seams are reinforced and have reflective piping. The jacket has 1″ wristbands and waistband, and the front zipper is augmented by a storm flap, rain gutter and rust-proof snaps. A hood is zippered into the collar. The pants have an elastic waistband with a 1″ integral belt and quick-release buckle, two zippered pockets, 12″ zippered leg openings, and stirrups. They’re lightweight and take up slightly less space than conventional rain gear. They even come in biker colors.

They fit perfectly fine as street wear (which is how I use them). However, when riding, the legs and sleeves are too short and the elastic snap-on stirrups don’t function well (I lost one the first day I wore them). Furthermore, the 3/4″ wide, 3″ long Velcro ankle closure tab is inadequate. I would recommend buying them one size larger than usual if you want them as rain gear for riding.

Unlike conventional rain gear, you won’t experience the dreaded “sauna effect” when wearing Hogg Toggs, and this material is 100 percent waterproof. Be warned that polypropylene film instantly melts when it touches a hot exhaust pipe, which is why Hogg Toggs come with a “Smokin Toad” heat-shield kit. This heat-resistant patch measures 9.75″ x 5.5″ and is applied with Toad Patch Adhesive to the area where your leg might come in contact with hot pipes. It can also be used to patch a puncture.

Hogg Toggs are viable rain gear for the casual rider who gets caught in an occasional rainstorm, but I don’t consider them to be adequate for long distance touring. This, admittedly, is a personal bias against wearing an additional layer over primary riding gear for an extended period of time. However, having said this, I pack my Hogg Toggs and use them as après-riding wear at rallies and when touring. After all, rain doesn’t stop even when my motorcycle does.