If you bike, walk or take public transportation in Portland, you will need gear to help you stay dry. The cost of decent rain gear doesn’t have to have to break the bank; a little work and planning can keep you—and your money—warm and dry.
Next Adventure
426 SE Grand Ave. Portland, OR 97214
If you’re looking for pro outdoor gear, but don’t want to cough up the exorbitant price, Deek & Brian’s Next Adventure have a bargain basement that offers gently used or clearance items at remarkable savings.
REI
1405 NW Johnson St. Portland, OR 97209
REI also has regular “garage sales” that can net serious savings on used or returned items, with the price of a $20 membership.
Ross Dress For Less
618 SW 5th Ave. Portland, OR 97204
T.J. Maxx
604 SW Washington St. Portland, OR 97204
If fashion is important to you, stop by Ross or T.J. Maxx. While the coats may be a little pricey, these stores often carry an excellent selection of gloves and hats that will keep you cozy at a comfortable price.
Goodwill
838 SW 10th Ave. Portland, OR 97205
Secondhand stores like Goodwill are the perfect place to get some decent winter gear. Even though scoring quality fashion at secondhand stores can require a little extra work and dedication, it is possible. Quality winter items are harder to get when the demand is high. Luckily, secondhand stores rotate inventory at lightening speeds, so don’t give up if you don’t find what you’re looking for on the first visit.
Andy and Bax
324 SE Grand Ave. Portland, OR 97214
A less troublesome—but much uglier—option is the military surplus store. These stores offer a large selection of durable (if unfashionable) cold and wet weather gear at low prices.
Home Depot
10120 SE Washington St. Portland, OR 97216
If you are looking for light weight rain gear and don’t mind looking like the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, Tyvek coveralls cost about $12 from any home improvement store. They are lightweight, breathable, and guaranteed to keep you dry. Just be sure to select a size big enough to slip easily over street clothes.
More tips:
Keeping your backpack dry is an important consideration. There is always the go-to garbage bag cover that is quick and easy.
No matter what you buy, the most important thing in your rain gear arsenal is a $10 bottle of waterproofing product like NikWax. Whether cotton, wool or nylon, as long as the garment is washable, you can make it waterproof. Just follow the directions on the bottle, and your coat, gloves or hat will keep you warm and dry for many winters to come.
