I've mentioned this in a few other postings, and with the weather finally getting down into the 30s, I figure it is time to address my DIY shell coat.
This is pretty simple really.
Take one Pointer Brand Chore Coat. Which is a made in the USA simple single layer cotton denim coat, with some pockets. You could probably substitute with any other similar cotton garment.
Then take one bar of Otter Wax, waterproofing wax.
Apply wax to the coat liberally, on a concrete patio, on a warm summer day. Maybe when you're done just toss it in a old pillow-case and run it around in the dryer on low. Or let it be warmed by the sun some more.
The result is an impressively smelly, waxy cotton chore coat. It also outright blocks wind from penetrating, and it is not overly bulky. The water resistance isn't spectacular. It keeps light stuff at bay. Having a wool layer on underneath will limit soak-through.
On last Friday's morning commute, it was 34, and I wore a wool guide shirt, and wool sweater, and the wind was just coming right through. I warmed up after the first mile, but it was kind of unpleasant all the way to work. That evening, I rode home after dark, and it was back down to 34, with a gusty breeze. This time I wore the chore coat out. The wind did not get through the coat at all, and I quickly became nice and toasty, and had a tremendously great ride home.
I think, as long as I'm actively biking, with two wool layers on underneath, I should be good down into the tens or so.
When this coat isn't in use, it is strapped to the top of my Carradice or Zimbale bags. It does make a nice impromptu ground cloth, for maintenance, or napping on, etc.
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