Dressing for a ride can be tricky, especially when the weather can change throughout the day. Picking the right kit for your ride ensures you stay comfortable and focused, no matter what Mother Nature throws at you. Whether you’re battling summer heat, bracing for chilly winds, or navigating unpredictable spring showers, having the right kit can make or break your ride.
In this blog, we'll guide you through dressing for different temperatures and weather conditions, so you’re prepared for any situation.
The Key to Layering
Before diving into specific temperatures, it’s important to understand one of the golden rules of cycling kit: layering. Layering allows you to add or remove clothing to regulate your body temperature, which is crucial when you’re cycling in changing weather conditions.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the essential layers:
- Base Layer: Worn next to your skin, this layer wicks sweat away and helps regulate your temperature. A good base layer is essential for staying dry, whether it's hot or cold outside.
- Mid Layer: This is where your jerseys, gilets, or thermal layers come in. This layer provides warmth and comfort during cooler conditions.
- Outer Layer: Your windproof or waterproof jacket. This is your first line of defense against the elements like wind, rain, or snow.
Now let’s break it down by temperature range.
Hot Weather Riding (18°C+)
When the mercury rises, staying cool and dry is the main goal. You’ll want to keep your kit light, breathable, and moisture-wicking.
What to wear:
- Lightweight summer jersey: Go for a short-sleeved jersey made from lightweight, breathable fabric that will wick sweat away and keep you cool.
- Bib shorts: A good pair of bib shorts with sweat-wicking properties will help you stay comfortable, even on long, hot rides.
- Sleeveless base layer: While this might seem counterintuitive, a sleeveless, lightweight base layer can actually help wick sweat and prevent chafing.
- Accessories: Sunglasses and a cycling cap to shield yourself from the sun, and don’t forget plenty of suncream!
Pro Tip: Don’t overdress in hot conditions. Keeping your core temperature down is essential, and you can achieve that with breathable fabrics and moisture management.
Mild Weather Riding (15°C - 18°C)
Mild weather can be tricky to dress for. It might start out cool, but by the time you’ve been riding for a while, you could be feeling quite warm.
What to wear:
- Long sleeve jersey: A lightweight long-sleeved jersey or a short-sleeved jersey with arm warmers is perfect for this range. You’ll be warm enough but able to adapt if it heats up.
- Bib shorts: Stick with your usual bib shorts, but keep some knee warmers in your pocket for early starts or late finishes.
- Windproof gilet: A windproof gilet is an ideal piece of kit in these conditions. It’ll keep your core warm on fast descents but can be easily packed away when you don’t need it.
- Fingerless Gloves: Surprisingly versatile and comfortable in these conditions. They can also help if you are sweaty and need more grip on the bars.
Pro Tip: Layering is key in these temperatures. Be ready to unzip, remove layers, or add them back on as the day changes.
Cool Weather Riding (10°C - 15°C)
When the chill starts to set in, you’ll want to focus on insulating your core and protecting yourself from the wind.
What to wear:
- Thermal long-sleeve jersey: A thermal long-sleeve jersey will provide warmth without overheating. Look for one with good breathability.
- Bib tights: Swap out your bib shorts for thermal bib tights to keep your legs warm.
- Base layer: A long-sleeved base layer will help insulate your body, keeping you warm as the temperature drops.
- Windproof jacket: A lightweight windproof jacket is perfect for cool rides where the wind chill can make things feel colder than they are.
- Lightweight Gloves: It's amazing how cold your hands can get in these temperatures, especially as you pick up speed.
Pro Tip: Focus on keeping your extremities warm. Don’t forget gloves, overshoes, and a skull cap under your helmet for those colder days.
Cold Weather Riding (Below 10°C)
Cold-weather riding can be tough, but with the right kit, it can also be exhilarating. The key is to insulate your body while allowing moisture to escape, so you stay warm and dry.
What to wear:
- Thermal jacket: An insulated, windproof jacket is a must for cold-weather rides. Look for one with good breathability to keep you from overheating during hard efforts.
- Thermal bib tights: A pair of fleece-lined thermal bib tights will keep your legs warm and protected from the cold.
- Winter gloves and overshoes: Keep your hands and feet warm with insulated gloves and overshoes. Cold extremities can ruin a ride faster than anything else.
Pro Tip: Layers like neck gaiters and thermal caps can make a huge difference when it comes to keeping warmth in and the cold out.
Wet and Windy Conditions
Sometimes it’s not the temperature but the conditions that you have to prepare for. Rain, wind, or both can turn even a mild ride into a chilly experience if you're not dressed properly.
What to wear:
- Waterproof jacket: A high-quality waterproof jacket is essential if you’re riding in the rain. Make sure it’s breathable so you don’t overheat, and that it fits well over your other layers.
- Water-resistant bib tights: Water-resistant bib tights help keep your legs dry and warm when the rain starts coming down.
- Windproof gilet: A gilet can keep your core warm when the wind picks up, especially on exposed roads or descents.
Pro Tip: Always carry a small, packable waterproof jacket in unpredictable weather—it could save your ride!
Why Lycra?
When it comes to cycling kit, Lycra is often the fabric of choice, and for good reason. Not only is it form-fitting, which reduces drag, but it’s also incredibly comfortable and designed to move with your body.
Benefits of Lycra:
- Aerodynamic: Reduces wind resistance, helping you ride faster with less effort.
- Comfort: Lycra offers a snug fit, reducing friction and preventing chafing, even on long rides.
- Stretchy & Flexible: Its flexibility ensures full range of motion, which is crucial when you’re pedaling hard or reaching for the drops.
- Moisture-wicking: Lycra fabrics are designed to wick sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable.
Final Thoughts
Having the right cycling kit for every temperature ensures you can ride in comfort, no matter the conditions. Whether you’re dealing with blazing heat or freezing rain, being prepared with the right kit allows you to focus on enjoying the ride, rather than worrying about the elements. And remember—layering is your best friend!
At Attacus, we design high-quality kit that’s built for adventure, from local rides to multi-day expeditions. Check out our latest collections to gear up for your next ride, no matter the season.
