Cool weather clothing

[bluerider]

Hi there,

This is my first fall/winter riding outside and was wondering what kind of clothing I need to think about? And I don't mean from a fashion sense.

I've already spent a fortune this spring on good shorts and jerseys. People have suggested leg/arm warmers and some have said I need long-sleeved jerseys and cycling tights. I don't mind "investing" in pieces but don't want to spend a fortune. Any suggestions? I think for sure full-fingered gloves? What do you guys wear?

Thanks!!!

[DeniseGoldberg]

There was a recent discussion about this topic in the Apparel topic within Gear and Accessories that will probably supply some of the info you are looking for. Take a look at the What to wear thread.

--- Denise

[bluerider]

Thanks Denise. D'oh! I see it now. Thank you.

[gretassister]

I can't afford all the "right" stuff either. I wear a sweatshirt, sweatpants, driving gloves and an earband under my helmet. If anything but my toes get cold--well then it's too cold to ride anyway.

[maryellen]

i think 'arms' and 'legs' are great for 'transitional' weather. I resisted for a long time, because they seem disproportionately expensive, even for cycling items, but they are worth it, and you really only need one pair of each.

[Nanci]

Hi,

Down here in sunny Florida about the worst it gets is the 30's- but it still seems cold! Especially when you first start out. One of my favorite cold weather items is a pair of long bike tights that are windproof on the front but breathable on the back, with kind of furry stuff inside, with long zippers at the ankles so I can roll them up if I get hot. I think they came from Performance. Also, a short bike jacket with windproof front and breathable back, of fleece. Something I don't have, but would really like is windproof shoe covers. Arm warmers are nice, since you can take them off. I have one long sleeve jersey, and I almost always end up too hot when I wear it. Bike knickers are nice, too. Something to cover your ears under the helmet.

Nanci

[caligurl]

i agree... definitely get leg and arm warmers! if you need warmer shirts.. you can wear sweathirts... "regular" long under wear shirts... etc....

a good windproof cycling jacket is also not a bad idea.. but you don't have to get a super duper heavy one.. get a lighter weight one that you can wear for more seasons.. and just layer on sweathirts and long undie shirts underneath!

my fashion sense on the bike went all to hell last winter... sweatshirts... turtle necks... (i get cold easily)

oh... a good pair of warm gloves and toe covers for your shoes too!

[MomOnBike]

As they say, If your feet are cold, put on your hat.

Really.

So, I've taken to wearing a wool headband under my helmet. Keeping my ears covered and my head warmer really works.

Also, long sleeves and pants (tights) help greatly. A wind-breaker type jacket and pants will get me down to where I'm almost the only person on the bike trail.

[caligurl]

oh ya! i forgot about the headband/ear warmer thingy! yes... as mom said.... i keep my ears covered too!

[bluerider]

Thanks for the tips everyone. I think if I can "recycle" some of my winter running gear I'll be able to save some $. I must say though I'm going to clash and look like I'm colour blind. Hey, at least no one can complain they can't see me!

[eofelis]

Thanks for the tips everyone. I think if I can "recycle" some of my winter running gear I'll be able to save some $. I must say though I'm going to clash and look like I'm colour blind. Hey, at least no one can complain they can't see me!

I went from trail running to bicycling and my Hind Arctic Drylete running pants work well for winter cycling, I just put them on over my cycling shorts. I also use my running base layer tops for winter riding. I have arm warmers and leg warmers, but I havn't gotten in the habit of using them much yet.

[profàvélo]

I have to say that the cycling apparel item I have been most pleased with is the convertible jacket/vest that Santa got me (from TE, of course!) last year. It's the most practical thing, although not the cheapest. But think of it as buying two garments in one. The sleeves roll up really small, and it has a pocket in the back as well as two in the front. (Whatever jacket you buy, you'll want it to have pockets.) All my riding buddies want one. It's just perfect when it starts out a bit too cool in the morning, and then warms up too much for a full jacket.

Have fun shopping!