Didnt start well, a storm stopped me halfway from london to portsmouth, the first day here I dedicated as a rest day as I get problems with my knee when I overdo it. It was a beatiful day which made me optimistic for the week, but there were storms eveyday. I did my planned rides anyway. My running shoes got sodden wet but I had fun regardless. Got a dry day today, so did the main north-south trail, started in my flip flops stopped at blacks to get a dry pair of waterproof hiking shoes on clearance. Got to a closed path, asked a cyclist coming the other way if id make it through, he said yes just keep your feet up. I did, my bike stopped in the middle, had to peddle out with these shoes I had only worn for an hour under the water. Wet weather touring is .. a challenge, but still enjoyable. Going home tomorrow, if it is raining I am getting the train back from portsmouth, ive had enough water for this week.
Im pretty sure my mat is thermal, just I got the cheapest sleeping bag to get out for my first tour in the spring. Ill take a look at that bag, thanks for the suggestion