Now February is upon us and although the weather has been fairly mild so far this year, its hard to know whats around the corner, so here’s some ideas to keep you warm no matter what weather we get in the next few weeks.
Base Layers
An essential part of your winter wardrobe should be a good quality base layer. Not only will it keep you warmer but also when you do get warm from climbing it will make sure your sweat is wicked away from your body so you won’t feel the cold as much on the descent.
Bib Tights
When your new to cycling you often wonder why anyone would want to wear bib tights? When hanging in the shop they don’t have the most appealing look. A couple of years later though after you’ve really got into your riding, you would probably wonder how you could manage without them!
Bib tights are comfortable to ride in, don’t slip down like tights can and keep you warm just where you need it, not just your legs but also your lower back. Tights just can’t compete really.
Jackets
Waterproof Jackets
Sometimes with waterproof jackets you end up more wet on the inside than on the outside. No matter how breathable they are. But into winter they really come into their own. That extra weatherproof layer can make the difference between enjoying a ride and having an epic. The warmest waterproof jackets are mesh lined but I personally prefer a lighter waterproof which will pack up small enough to go in a back pocket, but will still keep the weather out.
Long Sleeve Winter Jerseys and Windproof Jackets
To me a decent winter jersey is what keeps me warm on all but the coldest and wettest days. They are much more breathable than a waterproof when it’s not too cold and wet. Freedom of movement is unbeatable compared to wearing something more restrictive like a windproof shell. They usually have nice accessible pockets where you can stash snacks and your wallet/mobile phone etc. You can go for either a windproof fronted jacket on a non windproof winter weight jersey. Another option to add some more versatility is to wear a non windproof jersey, then slip a windproof gillet over the top when needed.
Gloves
Some people are lucky enough to have warm extremities nearly all of the time. It’s definitely my experience that when I was younger I could manage with much thinner gloves than I can now. So if you’re not one of those lucky people then you need a decent pair of gloves. It’s also worth bearing in mind that if your are still getting cold hands and feet then it may be because your core is getting cold. So make sure you keep your body warm. I sometimes where a second winter jersey when it’s really cold!
We keep a wide range of gloves in stock, but my personal favourites are the range we keep from Sealskinz, which are quite supple to wear. They cater for men and women from windproof gloves up to very warm fully waterproof gloves at the top end.
Waterproof Socks
Yes you can buy waterproof socks! And what an amazing invention they are too. They are made of three layers. The middle layer is a waterproof breathable membrane. Consequently it is worth buying shoes with enough room in them to fit a waterproof sock. Tight shoes can also be a cause of cold feet, as your circulation is restricted if your shoes are too tight.
Waterproof socks are available in various different sizes and weights and they start from around £24.99 a pair.
Overshoes
Even if you have winter specific shoes (which I do and believe me they are worth every penny if you ride all through winter) I’d still recommend where overshoes over the top. Not only do they protect your expensive shoes from getting covered in mud and road grime but also they really help to keep your feet warm and keep the wind out.
So if you need any more advice on what to wear to keep warm and keeping adding those miles up through the winter, just pop in and we’ll be happy to help.