Beyond Umbrellas: 10 Brands Making Urban Monsoons More Bearable

1. Rynox Gear for bikes -

Bangalore traffic is bad enough on a dry day. Add slushy roads and side-splash from cars and it’s a nightmare. That’s where Rynox comes in. Their range of riding rainwear like waterproof jackets, pants, gloves, and even shoe covers, is built for the realities of Indian roads (or potholes). Designed with abrasion resistance and visibility panels, the gear keeps you dry and safe on stormy evenings.

If you’re the kind who chooses two wheels even when the clouds look gloomy, Rynox will have your back.

2. Himali hardshell rainwear jackets - 

Not all rainwear is made equal. Himali’s hardshell jackets prove that technical outerwear doesn’t have to be bulky or uncomfortable. Originally designed for mountain climbers tackling the Himalayas, these jackets now work just as hard for urban commuters dodging puddles and packed metros. Lightweight, breathable and fully waterproof, they let you layer up without that suffocating, sticky feeling most raincoats bring.

A raincoat that lets you move, breathe and actually look good while doing it? Yes, please.

3. Tinted Story polarized sunglasses - 

There’s something about overcast skies and wet roads that makes city glare worse. Reflections bounce off every wet surface, making even short drives or bike rides a squint-fest. The Tinted Story’s polarized sunglasses cut through that glare, giving you clearer vision during those post-rain golden hours or while navigating through traffic on wet mornings.

Bonus: Their styles range from classic to experimental, so you won’t look like you borrowed your dad’s driving glasses.

4. Dr Foot for shoe deodoriser - 

Let’s face it: damp shoes and closed office spaces are a disaster combo. Dr Foot’s natural shoe deodorizer spray tackles that problem head-on. Infused with tea tree and lemongrass oil, this spray masks odour, neutralises bacteria and prevents further stink build-up.

A few spritzes in the morning or after getting home and your shoes are commute-ready for the next day. Because no one wants to be “that” person in the elevator.

5. Paaduks for water resistant footwear - 

Most rain-friendly shoes are either bulky, rubbery or... just plain ugly. Paaduks flips that narrative with handcrafted, water-resistant footwear made from upcycled and eco-friendly materials. Whether it’s strappy sandals or sleek slip-ons, these are shoes designed for city streets and sudden downpours.

Perfect for those who want to get through the season without giving up on style.

6. ShineXpro for rain repellents - 

Monsoon driving = blurred windshields and constant swiping at your visor or helmet. ShineXpro’s rain repellents solve that with a quick spray-on solution that creates a hydrophobic layer on glass surfaces. Water beads up and rolls right off, improving visibility dramatically during heavy showers.

Whether you’re on a bike, driving a car, or cycling through puddle-heavy lanes, this little spray bottle does a lot of heavy lifting.

7. Humicure for dessicants -

Dampness doesn’t just ruin moods, it ruins wardrobes, gadgets and that fancy leather bag you left by the window. Humicure’s desiccant packs quietly absorb excess moisture wherever you place them, inside bags, closets, drawers, or even your car’s glove box.

Set it and forget it. Your clothes stay fresh, your electronics stay safe, and that musty monsoon smell stays far away.

8. Spigen waterproof phone pouches - 

Monsoon downpours have a special talent for arriving right when you need to answer a call, shoot a reel, or check Google Maps. Spigen’s waterproof phone pouches are a practical, no-nonsense solution. With transparent, touch-friendly fronts and secure zip locks, these pouches keep your phone dry without sacrificing usability.

Whether you’re walking to work or stuck on a rain-drenched two-wheeler, this one’s a commuter essential.

9. Malai for faux leather and water resistant bags - 

Faux leather that’s sustainable, water-resistant and made from coconut waste? Malai ticks all the boxes. Their collection of bags, think backpacks, totes and crossbodies, handles sudden drizzles and damp commutes without compromising on aesthetics. With a natural texture and minimalist design language, these bags feel like they belong both in boardrooms and on Bangalore’s rainy MG Road.

For city folks who don’t want the monsoon to dictate their daily carry.

10. Strauss bicycle frame bag - 

Riding a cycle through monsoon streets has its own set of challenges, but the Strauss bicycle frame bag makes at least one thing easier—keeping your essentials safe and dry. Compact, water-resistant and easy to mount, this little black bag fits snugly along your bike frame, holding your phone, keys, wallet and snacks for the ride.

Perfect for last-mile commutes, weekend rain rides, or just city dwellers who prefer pedals over petrol.

11. Pangolin Umbrellas - 

For all the clever fixes and city-smart gear out there, the humble umbrella still holds its ground. Pangolin takes this everyday essential and levels it up by adding wind-resistant frames, UV protection, and smooth open-close mechanisms that actually work when you need them to. 

Because no matter how many monsoon hacks we stack up, some things remain non-negotiable and a solid umbrella always earns its spot.