Ugh...it's time to talk Winter riding apparel

[Owlie]

-10?

I don't mind wearing multiple layers on the bottom. I barely notice. I won't go out if it's much below freezing unless it's dry, and how often does that happen? I've been layering my Mid-Zero Zap tights (I bought them because unlike the non-zaps, they have ankle zippers!) with shorts, and I'm good to go down to about 35F...and if it gets too much below that, I'm probably not going out anyway!

What I need to work on is upper-body, foot and hand apparel. I do have a jacket, which the manufacturer says is good down to about 25F if layered properly. Maybe I can find some plain wool sweaters that don't have a horrible itchy collar. As much as I'd like a dedicated zippered wool base layer, that is not going to happen any time soon! (Though maybe I could buy one and turn the heating down a bit...I'd get some wear out of it for sure.)

[Caddy]

How tight should a winter cycling jacket be? I have some base layers from Under Armour, really love their stuff, and thought I would try out their windproof Cold Gear thermal jacket. I didn't see that it was a loose fit though. It's incredibly warm and I can see myself layering something between the base and the jacket, but it would still be loose around me, even in their smallest size.

And I can't deal with the scratchiness of wool, either. Not even merino or cashmere next the skin, so polyester is the way to go for me.

I also cycle with cycling shorts/tights and a warm legging since I use those leggings for running too. Cuts down on costs a bit.

[jessmarimba]

I just "splurged" on new smartwool arm warmers. Arm warmers have to be about my favorite piece of clothing, ever...and I've only had one awful cheap pair for the last 2 years. I'm so excited.

[OakLeaf]

If you can't wear wool, try polypropylene. Polyester doesn't hold warmth very well.

Base layers should fit right next to the skin with no bunching. Outer layers should have room for layering, but not be so loose as to flap and let air in.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Lisa-
How long is the inseam on those tights? I've had some issues with LG stuff being a little short, but those sound like really nice tights! Thanks!

They are longish- about 1" longer than necessary on me, and I'm 5'5".

Thanks, Lisa. Do they run true to size?

I can't tell, because I have very wide hips, so I usually take a Large even though another woman approximately my size and height with smaller hips might take a Medium.

-10?

Owlie, I mean -10F when I'm out doing fitness walks or snowshoeing- it's way colder on a bike and I would not go biking at -10F ! But walking/hiking/snowshoeing is quite do-able in those temps.