Showers Pass, an outdoor apparel brand based in Portland, Oregon, was established in 1997. The company specializes in designing and manufacturing waterproof, breathable clothing and gear to provide comfort and protection for cyclists, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventurers alike, even in challenging weather conditions such as rain, wind, or cold. As an ebike reviewer based in central Wisconsin, I needed high-quality gear that could withstand the region’s less-than-ideal weather conditions to gain more riding and filming days. Does their gear stand up to the task? Read my review of Showers Pass gear to find out.
Showers Pass provided the gear, but did not sponsor this post. The review reflects my experience and opinions of their products. Retail prices are listed, but these items are often on sale – check current pricing and sales through the links provided. If you choose to purchase through our affiliate links, it helps fund our reviews at no extra cost to you.
My Showers Pass Order
Before we dive in, a few things to note. I’m a 6’1″ tall male and size L/XL with a 33″ inch inseam. If you’re between sizes like me, go bigger for the best fit. Many of the items listed below are available for both men and women. Keep in mind color options, available sizes, and recommendations may vary slightly.
Refuge Jacket
Price: $350
The Refuge Jacket is a versatile multi-sport companion crafted with recycled nylon to withstand scrapes from branches or gear. It features a removable, adjustable hood, cuffs, and hem to seal out drafts, along with extra-long core vents that efficiently release excess heat. The drop-down tail shields against road spray and tucks away with a hidden magnetic closure. Reflective trim and vibrant color options enhance visibility in low-light conditions. With a relaxed fit, the jacket layers well and keeps me riding through wet, windy, and chilly weather.
- Pros: Tough build; works for biking, skiing, hiking; excellent ventilation.
- Cons: A bit stiff and noisy when moving, bunches up when seated; it’s pricey when not on sale.
- Fit: I chose XL and am very satisfied with the fit. It has room to layer for different conditions and allows for full mobility and full coverage.
- Sizes: S to XXL
- Colors: Alpine Blue, Cayenne (red), Goldenrod (yellow), Pacific Blue
Refuge Pants
Price: $150
The Refuge Pants is a hard-shell with articulated knees that bend with your pedal strokes. Zippered thigh vents cool you off mid-effort. The reinforced seat holds up to saddle wear (no more holes in my pants!), and zippered ankles slide over shoes or boots easily. Reflective trim keeps you visible in fog or snow.
- Pros: Top-tier weatherproofing | Durable | Stands out in low light.
- Cons: The Refuge Pants may feel baggy for slim builds, especially when not layered.
- Fit: Straight-leg cut with room to layer.
- Sizes: S to XXXL
- Color: Black.
Cloudburst Hoodie
Price: $259
The Cloudburst Hoodie is a featherweight layer that stuffs into its own pocket—perfect for when the rain clears. Its stretchy, quiet fabric moves without rustling, and the adjustable hood cuts wind. With a 43K MVTR breathability rating, it wicks sweat fast, staying light and dry inside.
- Pros: Packable and light; soft feel; breathes very well.
- Cons: Hood’s fixed; waterproofing’s decent, not extreme.
- Fit: Slim, athletic fit
- Sizes S to XXL
- Colors: Black, Mandarin (orange), Poseidon (blue)
Men’s Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt
Price: $85
The Men’s Apex Merino Tech T-Shirt blends 87% merino wool with 13% nylon, ring-spun around a core for a lightweight, durable fabric that’s soft against the skin—perfect for long rides without irritation. Its natural antimicrobial properties fight odor. The flatlock-stitched raglan sleeves and side panels cut down on chafe points, keeping you comfy during high-effort pedaling, while the longer back length ensures coverage when you’re hunched over the bars. With UPF 40 sun protection and a 150gsm performance weave, it’s breathable and quick-drying, making it a go-to for warm, active days or a light layer for cool weather.
- Pros: Odor-resistant and no chafe | Lightweight and breathable
- Cons: May feel tight on broader builds | Pricey | Can shrink if not laundered properly
- Fit: Slim
- Sizes: S to XXL
- Colors: Alpine Blue, Black, Clay (Orange), Arctic Dusk (Purple)
Cross Point Wind Gloves TS
Price: $65
The Crosspoint Waterproof Gloves bring a 3-layer build — knit outer, waterproof membrane, and wool lining for breathable warmth. They’re touch-screen compatible for mid-ride phone checks. The soft-knit vibe keeps them comfy, not bulky, for cool rides above 40 degrees.
- Pros: Cozy | Tech-ready | Comfortable grip.
- Cons: Dexterity is limited when handling small objects like zippers | Might wet out in heavy rain.
- Fit: Snug fit
- Mens Sizes S to XL
- Color: Black.
Cross Point Waterproof Wool Crew Socks
Price: $49
The Cross Point Waterproof Wool Crew Socks offer a 3-layer design: a rugged knit shell, waterproof membrane, and merino-wool lining that pulls sweat away. They block water from splashes or slush, keeping feet toasty, with crew-height coverage to guard ankles from wind or wet.
- Fit: Snug fit, Men’s Sizes S (5-6), M/L (7-9), L/XL (10-12), XXL (13-15)
- Colors: Gray, Black.
- Pros: Warm and protective | Multi-use | Keeps feet dry.
- Cons: Pair with overshoes for big rain | Bit thick.
Rainslinger Waterproof Hip Pack
Price: $89
The Rainslinger Waterproof Hip Pack uses TPU-coated nylon and waterproof zippers to lock out rain, keeping your phone or tools bone-dry. Its compact, snug design hugs your body without bouncing, and reflective trim glows under headlights. At 3.5L capacity, it’s spot-on for quick rides.
- Fit: Adjustable strap | One size
- Colors: Lime-Black, White-Black.
- Pros: Totally waterproof | Stays put | shines at night.
- Cons: No compression straps | Waistband is narrow.
Showers Pass Gear at a Glance
The table below summarizes the key features, prices, and ideal uses for the Showers Pass gear reviewed. Use it to quickly compare options and find the best fit for your adventures.
Looking for different cycling gear? Explore our full list of recommended accessories and reviews.
Waterproofing and Environmental Concerns
Waterproofing gear typically starts with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings, a treatment that causes water to bead off the fabric. Older versions of DWR used chemicals that effectively repelled water but left behind harmful waste. Newer DWR coatings still rely on perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) for lasting protection, but they break down more quickly. PFC-free alternatives are emerging, but they tend to fade faster, leading to more frequent washing and reapplying, which increases water and energy use. Showers Pass, whenever possible, chooses PFC-free DWR waterproofing paired with Bluesign®-approved care products, a certification for eco-friendly textile production, to provide solid waterproof performance with a smaller environmental impact.
Conclusion
Showers Pass gear is designed for riders who embrace challenging conditions. While it comes at a higher price point, I consider it an investment because this gear is built to last. Its reliable wind and water-proofing has personally allowed me more days for filming and riding. It reminds me of a saying my son often recites at his outdoor school: “There is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” ~ Alfred Wainwright. This gear certainly makes that statement ring true.
Explore Showers Pass gear to ride comfortably in any weather.
