snafuspyramid wrote:Yeah, as you probably noticed earlier I'd be quite happy wandering about town wearing my bike jackets (and actually do from time to time). It doesn't bother me that I look like a tool. However, it does bother her...
Didn't you tell us in a previous post that your bike jacket is uncomfortable to wear off the bike?

You are planning a trip to Tassie. Will you be happy to wear your bike jacket for the ferry voyage or flight?
The point I've been trying to make about softshells is that they are quite presentable and appropriate attire for almost any activity off the bike in cool and/or showery weather. Even - walking your dog in Melbourne, as you asked when first posting this thread. Perhaps f'rinstance, your girl might like to lash out with a night at Garagistes, probably the best known eatery in Hobart, or any of the restaurants around Salamanca Place or North Hobart. For sure I'd be visiting Fish Frenzy on Elizabeth Street pier. She might want to take a cruise on the Derwent or Tamar, visit the museum, art gallery, Mona, you name it.
snafuspyramid wrote:To replace a hood I'd need a Gore-tex hat like the one you mentioned, or something else waterproof/breathable. I don't know that that would be breathable for use except in rain though, since I sweat like an absolute pig in the heat and I doubt a membrane would keep up. Or is it just the brim and top panel that are waterproof?
Goretex is only one hat option but folds flat and fits easily in a jacket pocket. IP suggested waxed cotton - very effective in rain or sun but probably less packable.
Personally, if it is hot enough to raise a sweat I wouldn't be wearing any kind of rain jacket (or hat for that matter). Perhaps you need to take a folding umbrella if you are concerned about getting wet in hot weather.
