Rainy Day Essentials

Willy Subach |April 26th 2013

Womens:

$80 at rei.com, comes in yellow (shown), blue, and fuchsia, or you can pick this up at NTC Lincoln Park.

It’s so important to have a breathable rain jacket so that you don’t get too hot when it’s raining during the summer. Since it’s made by Nike and is designed for running, you definitely have that breathability that you want, as well as durability. I love that light colors with the semi-transparent panels. It’s fun without being too revealing.

(On sale for $10 at aldoshoes.com, comes in gray (shown), black, and blue)

Aside from being a HUGE bargain right now, I just think these shoes are practical. I’m not a huge fan of traditional rain boots (I mean, really? When’s the last time you had rain that came up halfway up your shin?), and these shoes just look so much more attractive. I love the relaxed vibe that these give off and I think they’re perfect for a rainy day. Most people probably won’t even know that they’re rain boots!

Mens:

($70 at shop.puma.com, also comes in black/gray and gray/yellow/white)

To start off, I just love these colors. I think it’s right on for the spring and summer. I also like the slim silhouette. I love this kind of jacket because it’s so easy to go from running errands to hanging out with friends. It doesn’t scream “RAIN JACKET” or anything, it just looks cool and it’s definitely something I’d wear even if it weren’t raining.

($65 at zappos.com)

Obviously, I have a thing for rain boots that are actually sneakers. The problem I have with traditional rain boots is that when you’re inside and it’s not raining, you look kind of crazy walking around in huge rubber boots. Sneakers are so much more versatile in those kinds of situations. These sneakers are awesome and I’m probably going to get a pair for myself. They can be easily paired with jeans or colored pants and still be functional and attractive when it’s raining out.