What to wear when cycling in winter?

Cycling in winter can be an exhilarating experience, but the cold weather demands careful planning when it comes to clothing. The right gear can make all the difference, ensuring you stay warm, dry, and comfortable, but clothes mean everything: you must feel right to be performant too, without forgetting your own style! At AURUM, we’ll break down the essential elements of winter cycling clothing and accessories to help you gear up for those chilly rides, whetherwether you are looking for winter clothing for men or women.

Layers: the key to staying warm and dry

When thinking about what to wear when cycling in winter, layering is the best answer, and the most effective way to regulate your body temperature and protect against the elements. Each layer plays a specific role, from moisture management to insulation and weather protection. Let’s explore the three main layers!

Base layer

The base layer is critical for regulating your body temperature and wicking away sweat to keep you dry. Avoid cotton: it retains moisture and can make you feel colder. Instead, opt for merino wool or synthetic winter cycling clothing designed for breathability and moisture management. These materials provide insulation without compromising comfort, ensuring you stay warm even during intense rides.

Intermediate layer

The intermediate layer’s primary function is to provide thermal insulation. Thermal cycling jerseys or lightweight fleece jackets are excellent choices. These garments trap body heat while allowing sweatmoisture to escape. Ensure this layer offers a snug fit to retain warmth without restricting your movement on the bike.

Outer layer

The outer layer protects against wind and rain, making it an essential part of your winter cycling kit. Look for waterproof and windproof jackets with breathable materials to prevent overheating, as well as for cycling gloves and a good neck gaiter. Reflective details are a bonus, especially if you are looking for road cycling clothing, since they enhance your visibility during overcast or low-light conditions. Choose a jacket that fits well but allows room for your other layers underneath.

Essential winter cycling accessories

Beyond the primary layers, accessories play a crucial role in keeping you comfortable and protected during winter rides. Let’s dive into the must-have items.

Gloves

Thermal cycling gloves are indispensable for cycling in this season, as they protect your hands from the biting cold. Waterproof cycling gloves are ideal for rainy conditions, while touchscreen-compatible gloves allow you to use your digital devices without removing them. Do not forget that they must help you maintain grip and control on the handlebars.

Shoe covers

Cold feet can quickly ruin a ride. Shoe covers made from neoprene or other waterproof materials help to keep your feet warm and dry. They’re designed to fit snugly over your cycling shoes, providing an extra layer of insulation and protection against wind and rain. Moreover, they will ensure a long service life of your cycling shoes.

Caps and bandanas

A thermal cap or wool beanie worn under your helmet can provide much-needed warmth. For milder days, a lightweight bandana can help keep your head warm while wicking away sweat. Ensure your headgear fits comfortably under your helmet without causing discomfort.

Neck scarves or neckerchiefs

A comfortable, breathable neck scarf or neckerchief is essential for shielding your neck and face from cold winds. Choose materials like merino wool or synthetic fibers that offer warmth without sacrificing breathability. Versatile options like tubular scarves can be adjusted to cover your neck, mouth, or ears as needed.

Choose the right trousers

Selecting the right trousers is crucial for winter cycling comfort. Thermal long tights with fleece linings or windproof properties are excellent for keeping your legs warm. Bib tights with suspenders provide extra insulation and a secure fit, preventing drafts from entering at the waist. Look for options specifically designed for winter cycling to ensure maximum comfort and performance.

Socks

As said before, keeping your feet warm is essential for an enjoyable ride. Winter-specific cycling socks made from merino wool or synthetic fibers are designed to trap heat while wicking away moisture. These socks offer superior insulation and comfort, helping you stay warm on the coldest rides, even if snow happens to appear!

Other issues to be taken into account

Here you have some extra advice from our team. At AURUM, we always go further when recommending best practices in cyclism:

1. Reflective details: Winter days are often cloudy, and early sunsets can make visibility a challenge. Reflective elements on your clothing and accessories improve your visibility to other road users.

2. Sun protection: Don’t forget sunscreen! Even in winter, UV rays can be harmful, especially when reflected off snow or wet surfaces. Take it with you, since repeating its application during the ride is essential.

3. Extra layers: Pack lightweight layers that you can easily add or remove depending on the weather. This flexibility ensures you’re prepared for temperature fluctuations during your ride.

This is how Savina Paul dresses for a winter road trip

Savina Paul, an avid cyclist and outdoor enthusiast, shared her winter road cycling clothing for women in a recent Instagram video. For her base layer, she chose a merino wool top that wicks away sweat and keeps her core warm. Over this, she wore a thermal cycling jersey for added insulation. Her outer layer was a breathable yet waterproof jacket with reflective accents, perfect for low-light conditions.

For her legs, Savina opted for thermal bib tights with windproof properties, ensuring her legs stay warm and comfortable throughout the ride. She paired these with merino wool socks and neoprene shoe covers to keep her feet protected from the cold and wet.

Savina’s accessories included thermal cycling gloves for hand warmth, a wool cap under her helmet, and a versatile neck scarf that she adjusted to cover her neck and face when needed. Each piece was carefully chosen to balance warmth, flexibility, and breathability, making her a perfect example of how to dress for a winter cycling adventure. And she was equipped with AURUM too! The perfect example on how to do things right.