You get on your bike in the morning and it’s still dark. Or you take the dog out at the end of the afternoon and notice that dusk has set in again. Sound familiar?
In autumn and winter, we are more often out and about in the dark. And if it’s raining too, you might be less visible than you think. Fortunately, you can do something about that with a few simple adjustments!
Rain reduces visibility, car windows can fog up, and wet roads reflect light. That’s exactly when a few conscious choices can help you stay more visible on the road.
Why are you less visible in the rain?
In the rain, contrast is often lower. Dark clothing blends in more easily with the surroundings, and headlights reflect off wet asphalt. Reflective details, good lighting, and attention to your visibility make a difference.
1. Check your lights
Good bike lights remain essential. Check not only that your front and rear lights are working, but also that they aren’t covered by a bag, long coat, or rain poncho. Clean your lights regularly; dirt can make them less visible. Also turn on your lights during the day when visibility is poor. Reflective clothing is a good addition, but it does not replace bike lights.
2. Choose reflective details
Reflective details work when light hits them, for example from car headlights. In the dark, this can make reflective parts stand out clearly. This could be a subtle strip on a jacket, or a reflective accessory on your bag or arm. Reflective details are a handy addition, but they should never replace good bike lights.
A great example is the Happy Rainy Days Montreal in red. This extra-long, waterproof raincoat has a reflective stripe on the back. This way, you combine a subtle reflective detail with a stylish jacket you’ll also love wearing on dry days. Of course, good bike lighting remains important.
3. A light or bright colour helps during the day
Reflective details are especially useful in the dark when light hits them. During the day, light, bright, and contrasting colours often stand out more than black or dark blue. You don’t have to completely change your style: a colourful jacket, rain hat, or umbrella can already provide extra contrast.
4. Keep your view clear, even under your hood
It’s not just you who needs to be visible; you also need to see clearly!
Adjust your hood so that it fits well without falling over your eyes. Also check that you can easily look in both directions. A rain hat can be a pleasant alternative: your head can move more freely, and you don’t have to keep adjusting your hood.
5. Make yourself extra visible with reflection
Not every jacket has reflective details, and sometimes they disappear under your backpack. Fortunately, you can easily add extra reflection yourself. Think of a reflective band around your arm or leg, an accessory on your bag, or a reflective vest over your jacket. This is especially practical if you often cycle or walk in the dark.
Make sure you are clearly visible not only from the front, but also from the back and side. For example, a reflective detail on a moving leg can stand out even more when hit by headlights. Are you wearing a long raincoat or poncho? Then also check that your rear light remains visible.
Also on an evening walk
Visibility is important not only when cycling. Do you walk the dog in the evening or enjoy going for a walk? Then a reflective vest can be useful. On poorly lit paths, a small light can also help you see where you are walking more clearly.
Keep in mind that reflective details only stand out when light shines on them. Extra lighting is especially advisable on dark roads without streetlights.
Clearly visible and stylish on the go
Fortunately, being clearly visible doesn’t mean you have to head out in a bright-coloured sports jacket. With good lighting, a few reflective accessories, and a stylish raincoat, you’re already a long way.
After all, on dark, rainy days you’ll naturally want to wear something that makes you happy. 😉
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