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Try checking out Marshall's or TJ Maxx. I got my Cloudveil Jacket there for about 60% off. I think I payed about $50. Get something with as many ventilating zippers as you can find.
In my experience, hoods over helmets don't function well, even when they're designed with a helmet in mind. Try a wool cycling cap under your helmet.
A cheap way out is to just get a rain cape/poncho thing. They are the most breathable, and very comfotable - they're just really dorky and not good in high wind.
Maybe try something at Department of Goods if you're looking for a good deal. Rain coats are usally cut low in the back so i wouldn't worry about buying a cycling specific jacket; they're usually too tight, and don't allow any layers underneath. You're going to be generating a lot of moisture inside the jacket from sweat and body heat and a tight jacket will just cause your under-layers to get soaked.
It sounds like you've already read the online reviews, what are you looking for here? I guess i don't know you, or if you're a racer-type or commuter. Maybe you change clothes at work? Maybe you like to look stylish? Those are all factors to consider...
I recommended the rain cape because it sounded like you needed to save money. I know it's unpopular, but the idea behind the rain cape is that if you already have a well equipped commuter bike you don't have to buy a special coat, pants, shoes, bag, gloves, jerseys, etc.
How about this rain suit? About $70 without shipping. You'll still need waterproof boots or galoches. (which as goofy as the name sounds, they work great for me).
If you change at work, Id just wear layers of underarmor. That stuff wicks away your sweat and keeps you relitively dry. Then towel off at work.
Agree w/ both of these folks.
For several years I was all about the $20 windbreaker from Sears/Kmart/Target/etc. and I just got fed up with the zippers failing after less than a year.
I bought a ~$100 waterproof jacket to use as an outer shell from REI last year and it was a very good decision. It does have pit zips . . .
Rich Scott said:
besides being waterproof, IMHO the most important feature in a jacket are PIT ZIPS. Despite all the marketing mumbo jumbo rain jackets don't breath. Pit zips allow you to vent out, even in the rain. I agree with Gin, the Marmott Precip is a nice jacket and has pit zips.
I wore this last year and found it to be effective. It really kept me dry. However, I can't vouch for its longevity. I may have to replace it after another season. I might get two more winters out of it.
http://bikewinter.org/node/102
By and large, it seems to work well with a wool layer under it, sometimes 2 layers because I run fairly cold. I really like that it has a snap down flap in the back for coverage and the sleeves are long enough so that when my arms are extended, everything stays covered. And it has pit zips.
I got the jacket on sale for about $120 total. (They have coupons and store wide sales @ REI.)
Don't forget to buy the laundry detergent that's specifically made for tech gear. It's one way to ensure some longevity.
Oh, and since you have a little time to look around, f you find something you like that's out of budget, maybe you could try eBay after you know your size and the brand you like. I got a Smartwool midweight sweater on eBay last year for less than $20.
I've used a Rain jacket from J&G (made in Oregon) for the past 2 years and love it. They have both breathable and regular models. Lots of venting and big zippers under the arms. Liked their quality so much I sprung for the rain pants which I use during all sub 25f commutes.
http://www.bicycleclothing.com/Waterproof-Breathable-Rain-Jackets.html
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