Though each individual has a different tolerance level for temperature, how you dress for your ride on those cooler days can be the difference of an enjoyable ride to the most miserable ride you’ve been on. Layering is the best way to insure you are prepared for any condition thrown at you during the ride. Layering is exactly that, layers of clothes each serving a purpose and that can be easily added or removed during your ride.

Base Layer

This is the piece closest to your skin and does the most of the work removing moisture from your skin to the outer surface for quicker drying. Moisture management is a key factor in controlling your body’s temperature. Several brands provide a temperature range for each base layer offered in their line which can include a thermal level allowing you to get out on even the coldest days.

Long sleeve Jersey and Tights

The next layer continuing to pull moisture from the inner surface to the outer surface. Jerseys and tights are available in a variety of weights to cover different temperature ranges. A key factor in choosing the weight is whether or not you will have a final layer on top of your jersey. A heavier weight jacket for those cold mornings may need removed once the warm sun rises. If this is the case, a lightweight long sleeve jersey will be just fine. For steady cold weather days, sometimes a nice heavy weight jersey and a base layer can be enough for the entire day. Rule of thumb, it’s better to have too much on that you can take off than not enough.

Jackets

A jacket is your final layer protecting you from the elements. Again, these continue to move moisture to the outer surface. Jackets can be insolated, wind proofed, water resistant, waterproof, and/or reflective. Jackets usually incorporate more than one function in each garment. Our most popular jacket incorporates zip-off sleeves allowing you to convert your jacket to a vest – getting multiple outerwear items for the price of one.

Arm/Knee/Leg Warmers

Heading out first thing in the morning can be quite cool, so this is an essential piece of any cyclist’s wardrobe. A warmer converts your basic items such as a Lycra short to a knicker or tight. The knee or leg warmer will go on underneath your Lycra short and stop about mid-thigh. The arm warmer will go up through mid-bicep and convert your jersey to a longsleeve. As the day warms up, you can remove these items without taking off your shoes or gloves and tuck them away in your pocket or seat bag.