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Cycling Thermals - What to Wear When Riding Your Bike
A lot of pedestrians looking at cyclists in cold weather imagine that the riders
must be freezing, wet and miserable. However, providing you wear the right gear,
they don't need to be uncomfortable when riding your bike.
The most important thing to remember is that when cycling you need to be able to
easily and quickly change the amount of insulation that you're wearing. When you
first hop on your bike on a cold day, you need to heat up quickly, when you pedal
up the first hill, you'll start to work up a sweat and may even need to cool off,
and when you freewheel down the other side of the hill, the last thing that you want
is the sweat starting to freeze on your skin.
The key to being comfortable is wearing layers of clothing. This way, you can add or
remove layers and thus precisely control your temperature. Furthermore, each of the
layers that you wear serves a different purpose:
- Base Layer:
The layer closest to your skin is probably the most important one for keeping you
warm, dry and comfortable. You don't want to choose a cotton T-shirt, as cotton
will simply absorb and hold your sweat which will make you feel instantly chilly if
the slightest draught gets to it.
Modern synthetic fabrics such as Coolmax will take the moisture away from the skin,
which is a big advantage. There's no need to buy a vast array of different clothes, as you
can wear the same item in Summer as a jersey, and in Winter as a vest.
On the other hand, if you prefer natural fabrics, you should consider merino wool. This
doesn't retain odours as much as synthetic fabrics, although of course you still need to wash
it every once in a while. Lots of people are deterred from buying wool garments because they
think that they are difficult to wash, however this is a misconception as
most modern wool garments are in fact perfectly capable of standing up to normal 40-degree washes.
- Mid Layer:
The mid layer of your clothing is intended to keep you warm. On very cold days a
fleece is a good choice provided it's not too bulky, but when it's not so chilly,
you'll want something like a long-sleeved jersey in Coolmax.
Whatever you choose, you'll select a breathable fabric, and make sure that the
cut is generous enough that your wrists and the bottom of your back won't be exposed
when you are stretched out on your bike.
One thing to bear in mind is that it's easy to get both cold (from the wind) and
hot (from physical exertion) while cycling, even during a short cycle trip. Many
thin layers are better than one thick layer, because you can add or remove them at will.
Zips are however even better, as you can open or close them to instantly control that
amount of ventilation that you're getting.
- Outer Layer:
The purpose of your outer layer is mainly to keep the weather out. That includes both
the rain and wind.
For your outer layer you want to wear a jacket,
preferably one designed specifically for cycling. As with the mid layer, you'll want
to choose jacket that doesn't expose your
wrists or back when cycling. Additionally, avoid jackets
which are stretched too tightly across your shoulders (because they will restrict
your movement and soon become uncomfortable), or which sag forward when in the cycling
position (because the wind will get in underneath in this case).
Other considerations when choosing a jacket are pockets (for your wallet, keys and so forth)
and safety. In terms of safety, a lighter color will help you
be seen, but if your jacket
has reflective features (or you're prepared to add your own reflective strips), then
even better. Avoid out for jackets with hoods (most cycling jackets don't have them anyway),
as they restrict your vision, especially when turning your head.
The final issue to consider is to make sure that your layers are compatible with each other.
Remember that your outer layers need to be big enough to accommodate both your body and the
inner layers - and you can make this easier by avoid bulky items for the inner layers.
Additionally, you'll want to avoid wearing a mid layer fleece that sticks out from under
your outer jacket (most commonly at the sleeves
or back) as this will tend to suck in both cold air and moisture.
Here are some cycling vests:
See Also:
Disclosure: Products details and descriptions provided by Amazon.com. Our company may receive a payment if you purchase products from them after following a link from this website.
Louis Garneau Clear Apparel
 | Lowest New Price: $17.50* In Stock* *(As of 21:34 Pacific 4 Dec 2023 More Info)
Click Here | Description: Louis Garneau, Clean Imper Bike Jacket, Clear, Large- Manufacturer: Louis Garneau
- Brand: Louis Garneau
- Model: 1030107
- UPC: 775504051116
- EAN: 0775504051116
- PartNumber: 1030107-0-L
Details:- Product Category: Apparel
Physical Description:- Size: 1.75 inches by 14.5 inches by 20.0 inches
- Weight: 0.4 Pounds
- Color: Clear
Features:- The Clean Imper jacket is transparent to expose team apparel and race bib numbers while providing total wind and rain protection.
- Visible: Reflective trim enhances visibility in foggy/rainy road conditions.
- Simple: The front hook and loop fastener opening makes it easy to remove when riding.
- Breathable: Mesh underarm and side panels evacuate moisture.
- Sealed: The fused seams and elastic wrist help keep wind and rain out.
Click here for more information |
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First Mfg Co Black Automotive
 | Lowest New Price: $50.00* In Stock* *(As of 21:34 Pacific 4 Dec 2023 More Info)
Click Here | Description: First Mfg Co - Gun Runner - Men's Motorcycle Biker Riding Black Leather Vest - 2X Large - Conceal Carry Pockets- Manufacturer: First Manufacturing
- Brand: First Mfg Co
- Model: FMM611BSF-XXL
- UPCs: 753524140898, 643850159018
- EANs: 0753524140898, 0643850159018
- PartNumber: FMM611BSF-XXL
Details:- Product Category: Automotive
Physical Description:- Size: 0.4 Inches by 26.3 Inches by 22.4 Inches
- Weight: 2.15 pounds
- Color: Black
Features:- Functionality:Â Two slash pockets, Two conceal carry pockets with tapered holsters, Interior cellphone pocket on left hand side, Single back panel, Mesh lining
- Style Features: Western style vest with V-neck, buffalo nickel snap at the front
- Versatility: Made with Cowhide leather, supple and flexible, Molds to the rider's body over time providing a comfortable fit
- Single panel back ideal for patches, embroidery or airbrushed art work
Click here for more information |
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Adrenaline Promotions Red Sports
 | Lowest New Price: $89.99* In Stock* *(As of 21:34 Pacific 4 Dec 2023 More Info)
Click Here | Description: Adrenaline Promotions Stanford Cycling Jersey,X-Large, Red- Manufacturer: Adrenaline Promotions
- Brand: Adrenaline Promotions
- Model: Stanford
- UPC: 810599014766
- EANs: 0810599014766, 7447719596579
- PartNumber: Stanford-XL-Jersey
Details:Physical Description:- Size: 0.0 inches by 0.0 inches by 0.0 Inches
- Color: Red
Features:- Dri-FIT Moisture Control Polyester Fabric with Sublimated Graphics
- Hidden ¾ Length Zipper,Raglan Sleeves and Three Rear Pockets
- Wash in cold water with a powder detergent. Allow the garment to air dry. Drying the garment in a drying machine will reduce the effectiveness of the Dri-Fit technology. Do not bleach. Wash inside out with like colors.Do not dry clean.
- Cycling Jersey
Click here for more information |
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Adrenaline Promotions Illinois Fighting Illini Sports
 | Lowest New Price: $89.95* In Stock* *(As of 21:34 Pacific 4 Dec 2023 More Info)
Click Here | Description: NCAA Illinois Cycling Jersey,Large,Orange/Purple/White- Manufacturer: Adrenaline Promotions
- Brand: Adrenaline Promotions
- Model: Illinois
- UPCs: 737069654034, 810599012359
- EANs: 0810599012359, 0737069654034
- PartNumber: Illinois-L-Jersey
Details:Physical Description:- Size: 0.0 inches by 0.0 inches by 0.0 inches
- Color: Illinois Fighting Illini
Features:- Dri-FIT Moisture Control Polyester Fabric with Sublimated Graphics
- Hidden ¾ Length Zipper,Raglan Sleeves and Three Rear Pockets
- Wash in cold water with a powder detergent. Allow the garment to air dry. Drying the garment in a drying machine will reduce the effectiveness of the Dri-Fit technology. Do not bleach. Wash inside out with like colors.Do not dry clean.
- Cycling Jersey
Click here for more information |
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Adrenaline Promotions Ohio State Buckeyes Sports
 | Lowest New Price: $89.98* In stock Usually ships within 2 to 3 days.* *(As of 21:34 Pacific 4 Dec 2023 More Info)
Click Here | Description: NCAA Ohio State Cycling Jersey,X-Large(red/grey- Manufacturer: Adrenaline Promotions
- Brand: Adrenaline Promotions
- Model: Ohio State
- UPC: 810599014049
- EANs: 7447733912980, 0810599014049
- PartNumber: OhioState-XL-Jersey
Details:Physical Description:- Size: 0.0 inches by 0.0 inches by 0.0 inches
- Weight: 0.46 Pounds
- Color: Ohio State Buckeyes
Features:- Dri-FIT Moisture Control Polyester Fabric with Sublimated Graphics
- Hidden ¾ Length Zipper,Raglan Sleeves and Three Rear Pockets
- Wash in cold water with a powder detergent. Allow the garment to air dry. Drying the garment in a drying machine will reduce the effectiveness of the Dri-Fit technology. Do not bleach. Wash inside out with like colors.Do not dry clean.
- Cycling Jersey
Click here for more information |
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Adrenaline Promotions California Golden Bears Sports
 | Lowest New Price: $89.99* In Stock* *(As of 21:34 Pacific 4 Dec 2023 More Info)
Click Here | Description: NCAA California Cycling Jersey,Large, Blue / Yellow- Manufacturer: Adrenaline Promotions
- Brand: Adrenaline Promotions
- Model: California
- UPCs: 737069653389, 810599010683
- EANs: 0737069653389, 0810599010683
- PartNumber: California-L-Jersey
Details:Physical Description:- Size: 0.0 Inches by 0.0 Inches by 0.0 Inches
- Color: California Golden Bears
Features:- Dri-FIT Moisture Control Polyester Fabric with Sublimated Graphics
- Hidden ¾ Length Zipper,Raglan Sleeves and Three Rear Pockets
- Wash in cold water with a powder detergent. Allow the garment to air dry. Drying the garment in a drying machine will reduce the effectiveness of the Dri-Fit technology. Do not bleach. Wash inside out with like colors.Do not dry clean.
- Cycling Jersey
Click here for more information |
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Adrenaline Promotions Blue Sports
 | Lowest New Price: $89.99* In Stock* *(As of 21:34 Pacific 4 Dec 2023 More Info)
Click Here | Description: Adrenaline Promotions Penn State Cycling Jersey,X-Large, Blue- Manufacturer: Adrenaline Promotions
- Brand: Adrenaline Promotions
- Model: Penn State
- UPC: 810599014346
- EANs: 0810599014346, 7447709562584
- PartNumber: PennState-XL-Jersey
Details:Physical Description:- Size: 0.0 inches by 0.0 inches by 0.0 Inches
- Color: Blue
Features:- Dri-FIT Moisture Control Polyester Fabric with Sublimated Graphics
- Hidden ¾ Length Zipper,Raglan Sleeves and Three Rear Pockets
- Wash in cold water with a powder detergent. Allow the garment to air dry. Drying the garment in a drying machine will reduce the effectiveness of the Dri-Fit technology. Do not bleach. Wash inside out with like colors.Do not dry clean.
- Cycling Jersey
Click here for more information |
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Adrenaline Promotions Virginia Tech Hokies Sports
 | Lowest New Price: $87.99* In Stock* *(As of 21:34 Pacific 4 Dec 2023 More Info)
Click Here | Description: NCAA V-Tech Cycling Jersey (Large,Red/White/Orange)- Manufacturer: Adrenaline Promotions
- Brand: Adrenaline Promotions
- Model: V-Tech
- UPC: 810599015473
- EANs: 7447708790766, 0810599015473
- PartNumber: V-Tech-L-Jersey
Details:Physical Description:- Size: 0.0 inches by 0.0 inches by 0.0 inches
- Color: Virginia Tech Hokies
Features:- Dri-FIT Moisture Control Polyester Fabric with Sublimated Graphics
- Hidden ¾ Length Zipper,Raglan Sleeves and Three Rear Pockets
- Wash in cold water with a powder detergent. Allow the garment to air dry. Drying the garment in a drying machine will reduce the effectiveness of the Dri-Fit technology. Do not bleach. Wash inside out with like colors.Do not dry clean.
- Cycling Jersey
Click here for more information |
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Adrenaline Promotions Colorado Buffaloes Sports
 | Lowest New Price: $89.99* In Stock* *(As of 21:34 Pacific 4 Dec 2023 More Info)
Click Here | Description: NCAA Colorado Cycling Jersey,X-Large- Manufacturer: Adrenaline Promotions
- Brand: Adrenaline Promotions
- Model: Colorado
- UPCs: 810599011703, 737069653549
- EANs: 0810599011703, 0737069653549
- PartNumber: Colorado-XL-Jersey
Details:Physical Description:- Size: 0.0 inches by 0.0 inches by 0.0 Inches
- Color: Colorado Buffaloes
Features:- Dri-FIT Moisture Control Polyester Fabric with Sublimated Graphics
- Hidden ¾ Length Zipper,Raglan Sleeves and Three Rear Pockets
- Wash in cold water with a powder detergent. Allow the garment to air dry. Drying the garment in a drying machine will reduce the effectiveness of the Dri-Fit technology. Do not bleach. Wash inside out with like colors.Do not dry clean.
- Cycling Jersey
Click here for more information |
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Adrenaline Promotions Iowa State Cyclones Sports
 | Lowest New Price: $89.99* In Stock* *(As of 21:34 Pacific 4 Dec 2023 More Info)
Click Here | Description: Adrenaline Promotions Iowa State Cycling Jersey,Red, XX-Large- Manufacturer: Adrenaline Promotions
- Brand: Adrenaline Promotions
- Model: Iowa State
- UPCs: 810599012557, 737069654225
- EANs: 0810599012557, 0737069654225
- PartNumber: IowaState-XXL-Jersey
Details:Physical Description:- Size: 0.0 inches by 0.0 inches by 0.0 inches
- Color: Iowa State Cyclones
Features:- Dri-FIT Moisture Control Polyester Fabric with Sublimated Graphics
- Hidden ¾ Length Zipper,Raglan Sleeves and Three Rear Pockets
- Wash in cold water with a powder detergent. Allow the garment to air dry. Drying the garment in a drying machine will reduce the effectiveness of the Dri-Fit technology. Do not bleach. Wash inside out with like colors.Do not dry clean.
- Cycling Jersey
Click here for more information |
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