NUVE bicycle covers, waterproof vs water repellent

NUVE bicycle cover in misty wet weather

When buying a bicycle cover, should you buy water repellent or waterproof? As part of our product research at NUVE, we looked at all the things that users want from a bicycle cover and we found that using high quality breathable fabric with a strong water repellent coating can have more benefits than fully waterproofing. The waterproof option is often the top priority but it really depends on the environment and use of the cover. You could be doing more harm than good to your bicycle. Here’s what we found out.

1. A superior durable water repellent (DWR) coating will protect your bike from getting wet during light rain showers similar to an umbrella. Water repellency is a higher level than water resistant but within that there is a degree of quality. A premium water repellent coating is strong enough to have water literally bounce off the fabric.

2. Waterproofing is a seal around your bike that can trap moisture underneath, causing the bicycle to rust over time. This is something often overlooked before purchasing but could become costly in the long run as it affects the lifespan of your bicycle and/or its components. 

3. Breathable fabrics also play an important part in this conversation. If you are using the cover to protect your bicycle in damp or humid environments, breathable fabrics prevent the moisture from building up and getting trapped on the bicycle as they allow air to pass through. Currently you can’t achieve waterproof and breathability with one layer of fabric. Unlike waterproof jackets which have 2-3 layers of fabric all working to do different things, bicycle covers are often one layer of material to be as lightweight as possible. 

Breathable fabrics such as those used in NUVE NX1 bicycle covers are a great way to protect your bike, particularly if your bicycle was an expensive purchase.

Before purchasing a bicycle cover, you should think about how and where you want to use it. For protecting your bike in a parking garage or sheltered area for example, choosing a waterproof cover wouldn’t be the right choice, as the main benefit is against heavy rain. However, if you’re looking for sustained, open outdoor storage, in rainy locations, then perhaps the waterproof choice is a good option - just make sure you give your bike an airing frequently.

Protecting your bicycle on a balcony

Here’s a usage list to help you know which option is best for you when deciding between waterproof or water repellent 

• Covered storage (sheds, garages etc) Breathable fabrics 

• Sheltered balconies Breathable and water repellent

• Open terrace Breathable and water repellent or waterproof (depending on the climate)

• Underground or building bike parking - often open, cold spaces Breathable fabrics

• Travel - attached to the back of a car, van or caravan Water repellent will protect your bike from light rain and spray from the road but if you’re travelling through persistent wet conditions, waterproof covers will work better

• Commuting and leaving the bike in the city Water repellent will work for passing light showers

• Open outside storage for long periods (months at a time during winter) Waterproof covers (dont forget to air your bicycle frequently)

• Indoors Breathable fabrics

• Environments - coastal towns (sea salt, sand), mountainous (dew and damp), rainy areas (wet and damp) Breathable fabrics with a water repellent

Recommendation: Unless you live in a place where it rains heavily most of the time and you’re keeping your bike stored outside without roof coverage, breathable fabrics with a water repellent coating are often the best option. But if you do go for the waterproof option, always make sure you air it.