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Just went on my first fall ride - temp was about 44 degrees when we started. I was pretty sure I needed layers, but I wasn't sure what kinds of fabric work best. And, I was really not sure what kind of jacket I should put on top. We are going to ride again early October, which will probably be in the mid 30s when we start. Any suggestions on how I should build my riding wardrobe for year-round riding? What are good investment pieces?
I mostly wear wool when it's cool or cold. It doesn't get cold and clammy like cotton or synthetic fibers. I have several Smartwool pieces, from lightweight to heavy weight, but I'd note that you don't need to wear cycling specific wool. An old wool sweater from Goodwill can work just as well. I have two jackets: A Pearl Izumi lightweight windbreaker and a more heavy duty Gore Windstopper jacket with removeable sleeves. Arm warmers are pretty handy and versatile, too, for changeable weather.
For my bottoms, I have everything from legwarmers to knickers (Shebeest Pedal Pushers to be exact) to tights (Sugoi Miz and Sub Zeros). For cool weather, I prefer the knickers, as I don't mind if my lower body gets a tad toasty by the end of the ride. I just find them more comfortable than legwarmers.
I'd add in wool socks, toe or shoe covers, head band and/or hat, a balaclava or buff, windproof gloves and glove liners. My feet and hands are my biggest limiters.
Everyone is different. I asked this question in an email to members of my cycling club last year and received all sorts of answers. The common theme was "layers." I would also add that you will need a bike bag (handlebar bag, trunk rack, etc.) large enough to carry the layers if you decided to remove them or you want to pack them at ride start in case you want them later.
I keep a log for rides in cool weather. I note the weather conditions, time of day, what I was wearing and whether or not I was comfortable.
This is an exceedingly smart thing to do. Otherwise, it feels like you have to relearn it every year.Quote:
Originally Posted by ny biker
Tights (I prefer chamois-free)
Jackets--one light (I like the Pearl Izumi Convertible Barrier--you get a windbreaker, a vest and a bolero in one!) and one heavier
Wool base layer(s)--I have a long-sleeve and a sleeveless one; an old light sweater works fine, but I have super sensitive skin, so it had to be merino. :rolleyes:
Arm warmers
Leg warmers
Full-fingered gloves
Wool socks
Shoe covers or toe covers are also good things to look at, depending on your shoes.
Everyone is different, so some experimentation is needed. :)
Thin layers are good, as noted. I would add that what you need depends a bit on what kind of rides you do. The most challenging isn't really suiting up for a short cold ride, it's starting in cool and maybe wet weather and ending in warm weather, without being loaded down with extra clothing. For rides like that, typically longish rides spring and autumn, stuff like arm and leg warmers and removable toe covers are great. My dh calls it "the modular look" :rolleyes:
For shorter cold rides I find regular long-sleeved and "long-legged" clothing more comfortable, but less versatile. In cool weather you need thinner layers than you might expect, but to cover more then you might expect. Feet, hands and head get cold fast, especially feet if you have snug shoes.
Thank you - great information! :)