Lately I have been trying out my alternative rain gear system and I would like to share a few observations. I have only used this system down to about 45F but I am sure it can enter into that are that gets close to freezing.
I still like my trash bag rain skirt. I can use it with long pants when it is cooler out and roll up the ends. I can pair this with my Chaco sandals and either wool, poly or no socks depending on the temperature outside. It does become a bit much when the temp is above 75F but by then I should be wearing shorts and can just let them get wet. I can also use it as a rain covering for the lower 2/3rds of my legs and still have it be somewhat breathable through the cut end.
I have swung over to using an umbrella for both rain and sun. The rain where I live rarely goes sideways and I can deal with the spray through the use of a windshirt or if it is really bad, by taking the trash bag liner of my pack and ripping two arm and a head hole into it.
I am currently trying out ways on how to use my umbrella with my rain skirt, a heetsheets and a sheet of bug netting for a summer shelter system but haven't got it down to the point yet where I feel comfortable with it all.
The nice thing about the rain system, it has cost me $45 so far and I stay dry as long as the umbrella and trash bag remain in good repair. No cleaning, no reapplying coatings and very breathable.
