Autumn & Winter Cycling Clothing Guide
With the right winter cycling gear, you can enjoy a pedal in the cold weather no matter how low the mercury drops. As temperatures fall and wind chill becomes a real factor, it’s essential to adapt your cycle clothing. Investing in a quality jacket, bib tights, and warmers will help shield you from bad weather and biting winds, ensuring you stay motivated throughout the colder months. Whether you’re braving a quick commute or heading out for long winter rides, choosing the right kit means you can keep cycling, whatever the weather throws your way.
Autumn and Winter Cycling Clothes
Winter cycling clothing is designed to help the cyclist stay comfortable in all weathers, making it possible to ride confidently no matter the forecast. There’s a huge amount of winter cycling clothing from brands such as ASSOS and Universal Colours designed specifically to tackle wet and windy conditions, allowing you to continue training outdoors from autumn through to spring.
How to decide what winter cycling clothing you need
For some riders, comfort and warmth are the most important factors, simply to get them through the coldest days of commuting and training. For those facing particularly cold rides, insulation and protection become even more important to stay warm and comfortable.
For cyclists that have specific goals in mind, or want to continue racing, weight and even aerodynamics may be as much of a consideration when looking for winter cycling gear as they are when choosing summer garments. Additionally, temperature drops can influence the choice of winter cycling gear, making it essential to select clothing that can adapt to changing conditions.
How do I choose what layers to wear?
The first rule of riding in cold weather is to layer up on top. Several layers of thin, technical fabrics and base layers are far more efficient at holding in heat than one thick garment, and you can peel something off if the temperature rises.
There are three main items to think about: a base layer, worn tight against the skin, draws moisture away, a mid-layer—such as a long-sleeved jersey—traps warm air, and finally an outer winter cycling jacket works as your main defence against the wind, rain or both. Base layers made from technical fabrics are especially effective for moisture management.
What is a Cycling Base Layer?
Constructed from synthetic fibres, Merino or a mixture of the two, a long sleeve base layer is perfect piece of kit for a pedal as it is designed to be worn tight against the skin and will wick moisture while adding insulation. An important feature of base layer fabric is the ability to insulate even once damp, and your decision on how warm this layer is should be based on both riding conditions and other kit choices.
Choosing a winter cycling jersey
When the reality hits that there’s no chance you’ll be taking your arm warmers off mid-ride, it’s time to switch to a long sleeve jersey. A good quality garment will keep the chill off without causing you to overheat, so fabrics that are both insulated and breathable are key. A stretchy fit ensures comfort and freedom of movement, allowing you to ride efficiently.
How you decide to layer, and how deep into winter you are going to ride will heavily influence your choice of winter cycling jersey, and there are a whole host of options out there, from lightweight and breathable long-sleeved versions of a summer jersey for the autumn months, through to heavily insulated pieces for the coldest winter days.
Long Sleeve Winter Cycling Tops
Most long sleeve jerseys from popular brands such as ASSOS and Castelli are constructed from synthetic fabrics, and the warmer options are likely to use a brushed Roubaix-type fleece which allows your skin to breathe. Merino wool is another popular option. It’s soft, warm, moisture wicking and antibacterial. Windproofing is also important, especially at the front where you’re most exposed. Look for jerseys with windstopper materials on the front panels to block the wind and reduce heat loss. Rear pockets are a practical feature, providing convenient storage for essentials during winter rides.
Should I have a Gilet in my Winter Cycling Drawer?
Cycling gilets are one of the most versatile pieces of winter cycling gear. These range from lightweight and packable to heavily insulated. A lightweight gilet is ideal for unpredictable days in autumn and spring—you can stuff one into a jersey pocket ready for a windy descent or sudden downpour. The lack of sleeves means airflow is never compromised while an excellent barrier is created over your core.
How Should I Choose a Winter Cycling Jacket?
Winter cycling jackets come in many different iterations, from light windproofs and waterproofs that can be carried in a jersey pocket, to heavier pieces designed to be worn all ride long. Soft shell jackets are a versatile option, offering wind resistance, breathability, and more warmth without excessive bulk.
For unpredictable days, having a waterproof cycling jacket that packs down small is a must. Water resistant fabrics are also important for winter cycling jackets, helping to keep you dry while maintaining breathability and warmth. Winter cycling jackets often feature taped seams, which enhance waterproof protection by preventing water from seeping through the stitching. Read in more detail about choosing a waterproof jacket in our guide.
What are Cycling Bib Tights?
A bib short paired with leg warmers will only carry you so far into the colder seasons. Compared to other tights, winter bib tights offer better insulation and protection, with materials designed for more flexibility, warmth, and to keep your muscles warm and your joints well protected.
In the transitional seasons, look for fabrics that create a barrier against light rain while retaining heat. When the freezing temperatures arrive, more protection is required. For cold, wet days, look for a bib tight that positions fabrics strategically. A heavier fleece with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment is a good choice for exposed areas, alongside a lighter fleece behind the knees for freedom of movement.
Head and Neck Wear
Keeping your head and neck protected is crucial. For extra protection, add a beanie or skull cap under your helmet, and consider a neck warmer or buff to shield your neck and lower face from winds. On the coldest days, a balaclava or face mask can provide full coverage, preventing frozen fingers and toes by keeping your core temperature up. Choose accessories that are easy to adjust and layer, so you can adapt to changing conditions throughout your ride.
Don't Forget Your Extremities: Keeping Hands and Feet Warm
Once your core is properly layered, your body can focus on keeping your extremities warm. However, biting winds and limited circulation can still leave your hands and feet painfully cold. It's especially important to keep your toes warm to prevent discomfort and maintain performance during cold rides. Here are essential tips and gear choices to protect them from the elements.
Protecting Your Feet from the Cold
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Winter Cycling Socks: Start with a good pair of winter socks. Merino wool is a fantastic option as it keeps your feet warm even when damp, wicks moisture, and has antibacterial properties. Ensure your socks aren't so thick that they make your shoes too tight, as this can restrict blood flow.
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Overshoes: A good pair of overshoes is a worthwhile investment. They slide over your regular cycling shoes to block wind, rain, and road spray. Options range from fleece-lined neoprene for the coldest days to waterproof silicone for milder, wetter conditions.
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Tape Your Vents: A simple hack for extra warmth is to cover the ventilation holes on the soles of your summer shoes with a piece of duct tape. This blocks cold air from seeping in from underneath.
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Winter-Specific Cycling Shoes: If your budget allows, dedicated winter cycling shoes are the ultimate solution. They typically feature a thermal lining, a waterproof membrane, and a higher ankle cuff to seal out the weather, eliminating the need for overshoes.
Protecting Your Hands from the Cold
When choosing winter cycling gloves, look for options that provide excellent grip, such as those with a grippy silicone palm, to ensure safe handling of the bike in cold conditions.
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Insulated Winter Gloves: A pair of winter gloves designed for the conditions is essential. Look for thermal options for cold, dry days, or neoprene for waterproofing. A longer cuff is crucial to create a seamless barrier between your gloves and your jacket sleeve.
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Deep Winter Gloves and Liners: For the coldest days, consider "deep winter" gloves, which offer maximum insulation. Alternatively, a thin pair of glove liners made from Merino wool or silk can be worn under your main gloves to add a significant extra layer of warmth.
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Pro Tip: Add a Little Breathing Space: For both gloves and shoes, being too tight is a common mistake. A slightly larger size allows a layer of warm air to be trapped and prevents circulation from being cut off, which would make your hands and feet colder.
High Visibility Cycling Clothing
Staying visible is key in low light conditions and bad weather makes it easier motorists to see you. Opt for winter cycling jackets and bib tights with reflective details, look for strips, logos, or panels that catch headlights and streetlights. High visibility cycling clothing in bright or fluorescent colours can further increase your presence on the road, helping you stand out even in fog, rain, or dusk. Don’t forget to add lights to your bike for extra visibility, especially if you’re riding in the early morning or evening. By wearing the right gear, you’ll be safer and more confident.
Whether for the daily commute or getting the winter miles in, choose your winter cycle clothing carefully and you’ll be able to ride comfortably no matter what the weather throws at you. Shop our full clothing range and tackle the colder months in style.
