From shorts & sleeveless to ......

Hi Everyone!

What types of clothing (jerseys, tights, jackets, etc...), do you suggest someone have for comfortable fall/winter rides?

This past Monday in the late afternoon I went out with the intention of riding about 20 miles. It was 62 degrees out & windy. Well, I turned around after 1/2 hour! With shorts & s/s jersey on, I was too cold & decided to turn around. (I normally don't mind the cold, but....I think it was the wind that made me uncomfortable.)

What articles/pieces of clothing do you wear when fall & winter arrive?

Thanks for your help.

Peace & Love,

Denise

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=10022

There are so many variations but the one I've picked seems to work well for me:

Per Chris Carmichael: cyclists should be in leg warmers or knee warmers for temps below 65 degrees F.

On my own I figure if I need leg warmers, I need arm warmers too! lol If it's cloudy, windy and/or damp I'll also wear long-fingered gloves to protect my little digits! You could also look into some light-weight jackets that fit in a jersey pocket (TE carries some) which would help keep your core warm when riding into the wind but can be tucked away when riding ahead of it.

62 degrees and it was too cold for you in shorts and s/s???
And you're in Massachusetts?????
For shame!! :D
Just kidding!

I've always gone by the belief (I read it somewhere..Bicycling maybe?) that on a cool day, if you're warm in the first 10 minutes of your ride, you're dressed too warmly.

Arm and leg-warmers are perfect for such a ride as you described, because you can shuck them easily as you warm up and stash them in a jersey pocket. For that ride I probably would have worn a light wind vest, too. Otherwise, see the apparel thread mimitabby mentioned and the commuter thread I mentioned in that referenced thread.

functional undergarment, one of mine has a windproof front. works wonders. And arm and leg warmers get my vote as well.

I've been doing a lot of reading here because this will be my first season where I plan to bike in colder weather.

So far, I know that if it's dry, I can get by with just arm warmers (and a short sleeve jersey) down to about 60 degrees. If it's wet or windy, I'll probably have to add a jacket (haven't experienced this yet). I haven't used leg warmers/knee warmers or tights yet, but I've got a LOT of natural insulation on my legs and they can handle cooler temps than most (even as a kid, I'd iceskate with bare legs and freak out my friends!).

I have purchased long fingered gloves and shoe covers to keep the extremities warm. Oh, and I also wear a Buff on my head to control my hair under my helmet, so that keeps my head warmer than most, as well.

My next purchase will be a waterproof/breathable jacket/vest combo. Then I'll worry about the legs!! :p