Best rain gear for disney world

When you’re visiting Walt Disney World, the question isn’t if it will rain, but rather when it will. Once you encounter the inevitable downpour, you have three possible ways to protect yourself: a poncho, an umbrella, or a rain jacket/coat.

Many guests have strong opinions about which is the optimal form of rain protections, but truth is, there are the pros and cons of each.




UMBRELLA



PROS
:


Can potentially protect more than one person.

Can protect bags you’re carrying.

When wet, can be clipped to the outside of bag to facilitate drying.

Many are compact and easy to carry.

Can be used as a parasol for sun protection. (Important in Florida heat.)

Keeps your face dry. Important for guests wearing glasses and for guests wearing masks during the pandemic.

Easy to share with others.



CONS
:


Ineffective during heavy wind.

Could poke/bump other guests in crowded walkways.

Must fold/unfold when going in and out of spaces.

Larger/sturdier models may be heavy.

Unlikely to fit into a pocket.

Likely leaves your legs exposed to water.

Keeps a hand occupied – thus making that hand unavailable for carrying packages or holding onto a child.



PO

Rain gear

Like others have said, it's a personal preference between rain coats and ponchos (I'm totally against umbrellas as I've gotten hit in the face with one on several occasions at Disney). I've worn a thin raincoat on a day that there were going to be numerous showers throughout the day, however, I prefer a poncho. I feel like they cover my clothing better because they tend to go down to my knees, so it covers my shorts completely. The day I wore the rain coat, the bottom of my shorts got soaked. Also, we go to the parks with what fits in our pockets -- no stroller, no backpack, etc. When I wore the coat, I had to tie it around my waist when I wasn't wearing it. I can fit a disposable rain poncho in my pocket and I always take a quart size ziploc bag with me to put the used poncho in (because I think they're impossible to refold in to that tiny package again) so I can use it again if it rains later or I take it back to the room and hang it up to dry. I purchased some disposable rain coats to use on our trip in June. We'll see how that goes.

I think the most important thing is to make sure everyone has at least 2 pair of shoes so that if





You’ve done all the planning. Read all the blog posts. You have your packing lists and foods to try. But now you look at the weather report and oh no! There is rain in the forecast.

I know it’s easy to spiral and think that this runs everything, but with a little bit of planning, rainy days can be a great day at a Disney Park.


What to Wear






Shoes


This is going to really depend on if it’s hot and rainy or cold and rainy, firstly. If it’s hot and rainy, then a waterproof shoe (like an Birkenstock EVA, Natives, or Crocs) is our go to. It’s still supportive and comfortable, but you don’t have to worry about changing your shoes in the rain. This is especially helpful in Florida where it happens suddenly and often in rainy seasons.

If you are a running shoe family, then slipping in a flip flop into the Park bag or locker for the rainy parts is great as well. DEFINITELY recommend sandals for when it rains. The “river” of water can be ankle deep so it is best to not have something enclosed and especially no socks. Also keep in mind that water or wet shoes can create more friction so don’t forget to pack blister band aids! 

There are also these amazing sh


Best Tips for Lots of Rainy Park Days



rckstrscat:


I’m considering buying a ultra-lite rain suit because wearing a cheap poncho for 3 days solid sounds terrible to me,


I do a very similar thing. I wear outdoor track pants / track suit that are water resistant. I do like to have an umbrella even if I have a poncho, hoodie or other top.

As you’ve stated bring extra shoes, even multiple pairs, are a must. I go to Wal-Mart and get $15 sneakers that are comfortable, but not high quality. I throw each pair away by the end of the trip. I will use a hair dryer to see if I can get more than one day of use out of them,

I’m sure you already know the rest… plan for more indoor rides than outdoor things like SDD, Everest and rides like those.

This might be the trip where you finally go see the shows that are lower tiered attractions like Country Bears, The American Adventure and etc… if you’ve skipped them before.

My best advice is to make the most of it. You’ll be soggy while at WDW, but that’s still got to be better than a day a work!

GL!!


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