If you cycle in real weather, you already know the problem. Most raincoats are fine until you put your hands on the handlebars. Then your sleeves creep up, your knees get soaked, and the wind finds the one gap you forgot existed.
A good cycling raincoat is not just “waterproof”. It is a system: coverage, movement, ventilation, and details that keep working when you are riding.
This is the checklist we use at MAIUM, based on how our jackets are designed to work on a bike and e-scooter.
What makes the best raincoat for cycling?
1. Coverage that stays put when you ride
On a bike, you need protection where rain actually lands: hands, thighs, knees, and the front of your body when wind pushes water sideways.
That is why we use the distinctive side zippers. Open them and the coat becomes a poncho shape for riding.
Then it is about how you wear it:
- Drape the front panel over your handlebars
- Use the built-in "bike holes" to put your hands trough and keep grip on the handles
- For mobility, drape the back over the bike seat so you can move freely
This is the difference between "I own a raincoat" and "I arrived dry".
2. A waterproof rating that makes sense for riding
If you are comparing jackets, you will keep seeing "water column". That number is about water pressure resistance. Many of our core styles sit at 10,000 mm, including the Original, Poncho, Mac, and Trench.
So, is 10,000 mm waterproof enough for cycling? Yes. 5,000 to 10,000 mm is built for longer rides in heavy rain and wet snow, so 10,000 mm sits right where you want it for commuting and everyday riding.
3. Breathability that matches how you cycle
Breathability is what stops "wet inside" from becoming your new normal. We measure breathability using MVTR – this means moisture escaping from inside while keeping water out.
MAIUM's breathability guide:
- Over 3000 g/m²/24h for light exercise, like normal cycling
- Over 5000 g/m²/24h for heavy exercise, like hard cycling
In the collection, you will see differences by style. For instance, the Mac lists 4000 g/m² breathability, while the Trench lists 5000 g/m² breathability. Even styles that note no breathability due to the waterproof coating (e.g. the Original), uses ventilation holes at the armpits.
So if you run hot or ride fast, choose accordingly.
4. Construction details that stop leaks where they start
A fabric rating is only part of the story. On a bike, weak points show up quickly: seams, zips, hood edges, and cuff openings.
Across our key styles you will see sealed and taped seams, water-repellent zippers with flaps, adjustable cuffs, and high collars designed to protect mouth and nose.
Which MAIUM style is best for cycling?
It depends on your ride. Here is the practical way to choose.
The Original
For full rain protection, city commuting, and slower rides where staying dry is the priority. It converts into a poncho via the side zippers, has a 10,000 mm water column and sealed seams, plus ventilation holes at the armpits.
It is also made from 66 recycled PET bottles.
The Poncho
For packability and quick coverage. Ir folds into a built-in pouch and converts into a larger poncho for bike or e-scooter.
It lists a 10,000 mm water column, taped seams, and ventilation holes at the armpits.
The Mac
For everyday cycling when you want waterproofing plus measured breathability. The Mac converts into a poncho for biking, lists 10,000 mm water column and 4000 g/m² breathability, taped seams, and ventilation holes.
Made from 99 recycled plastic bottles.
The Trench
For longer coverage with higher breathability. It converts into a poncho for bike or e-scooter, lists 10,000 mm water column and 5000 g/m² breathability, plus taped seams and ventilation holes.
Made from 111 recycled plastic bottles.
The Original Balmacaan
A classic, relaxed overcoat with raglan sleeves for easier movement. It converts into a poncho for bike or scooter, with 10,000 mm water column, sealed seams, and ventilation holes at the armpits.
Made from 77 recycled PET bottles.
How to wear a MAIUM raincoat on a bike
- Open the side zippers to create the poncho shape
- Drape the front panel over your handlebars
- Put your hands trough the bike holes and grip the hanldes
- For mobility, drape the back over the bike seat
That is the whole point: the coat adapts to the ride, not the other way around.
So, what makes a raincoat good for cycling?
Coverage that stays in place on the bike, waterproof construction, ventilation or breathability, and a hood and cuffs that seal properly. We built for all of it, plus our signature side zippers and bike holes that let the coat convert into a poncho for riding.
Our styles are designed for movement. That's why we call ourselves bad weather experts.
