How to Layer for Winter Cycling in Extremely Cold weather
The most important thing to consider when winter cycling in cold-weather is to dress in layers. Focus on fabrics with moisture-transfer functionality which enables sweat to dissipate to the outside, leaving your skin dry, in a process known as moisture-wicking. Avoid cotton which has very limited moisture-wicking capacity
The first rule of cold-weather riding is to dress in multiple thin layers, which is key to keeping your core body temperature in the right range. Air trapped between layers is what creates the insulation effect.
Use fabrics with good moisture-transfer capability so that sweat can dissipate to the outside and leave your skin relatively dry. That means no cotton, which has poor wicking capacity. And skip standard wool, which insulates well but stays wet.
The three recommended layers:
On the coldest of winter days, three layers are recommended for cycling. These are.
1.Base Layer
This is the first layer that goes on your bare skin. It should be moisture-wicking so you don’t feel damp as dampness hinders thermoregulation and will lead to you feeling cold. Polyester, Merino wool, or a synthetic wool blend are great insulation fabrics. Here are two excellent, cycling base layer products for you to peruse or purchase.
Retailing at about £18 at most outlets this Thermal Winter Cycle Jersey Base Layer from FDX has excellent ratings from over 350 reviews on Amazon can help to keep you warm in the dead of winter. Key features include: 80% Super Roubaix Material, 20% Polyester plus moisture-Wicking fabric transports sweat away from the skin you dry. Click to view or buy FDX Roubaix Cycling Base
Retailing at about £43 at most outlets this Thermal Winter Cycle Jersey Base Layer from Extreme Essentials has excellent ratings from over 90 reviews on Amazon and can help to keep you warm in the dead of winter. Key features include: Longer back than any other baselayer to prevent ‘ride-up’ and cold spots. 50% Polyester, 50% Wool (Merino. Click to view or buy Extreme Essentials Long-Sleeve Cycling Base layer
2.Mid-Layer/Insulating Layer
This is the insulating layer that goes on top of your base layer. This layer is typically referred to as a cycling jersey.
Retailing at about £50 at most outlets this Thermal Winter Cycle Jersey from Sundried can help to keep you warm in the dead of winter. Key features include: Crafted from multi-way stretch and thermal fabrics, this product is warm, breathable, and soft to the touch. Silicon grip at the base stops material bunching up during intense rides, providing extra protection from the elements. Click to view or buy Sundried Thermal Cycling Jersey Now.
Retailing at about £60 at most retail outlets this GORE WEAR Men’s Thermo Cycling Jersey will make a perfect addition to your winter cycling wardrobe. Key features include. Comes in 4 colours: Black, neon, red and orange. Active Fit for comfortable freedom of movement, Cycling-specific cut. 100% Polyester. GORE Selected Fabrics: Fast moisture-wicking and extreme breathability. Click to view or buy GORE WEAR Men’s Thermo Cycling Jersey Now.
3. Outer Layers (windproof/waterproof for cycling)
The outer layer for cycling which is sometimes called the barrier layer or outer shell keeps out windchill and rain. This needs to be breathable or when working hard on a bike you will get very sweaty and uncomfortable.
Retailing at about £135 at most retail outlets this Gore Wear Outer Layer Cycling Jacket will make a perfect addition to your winter cycling wardrobe. Key features include: Versatile 2-in-1 men’s jacket, Ideal for all weather conditions. Active Fit for comfortable freedom of movement, Cycling-specific cut. GORE-TEX INFINIUM with WINDSTOPPER Technology: Windproof, highly water-resistant and extremely breathable. Removable sleeves. Click to view or buy Gore Wear Phantom Jacket Now.
Retailing at about £42 at most retail outlets this Souke Outer Layer Cycling Jacket will make a perfect addition to your winter cycling wardrobe. Key features include: Windproof & Warmth. Cycling Jacket with 3 layers of composite materials. Outer breathable material provides superior wind protection and water repellent. Reflective stripes on both front and back side of the winter cycling jacket keep you safe in low visibility. Click to view or buy Souke Outer Wear Cycling Jacket Now.
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