Looking for cycling gear as an early biking enthusiast, you may find plenty of styles, both quirky, fashionable, and functional at the same time. But, once you progress in the sport and enter pro-level, both training and gear selection will require elevation. Ask any professional cyclist who has competed in harsh climates (yes, people race in extreme weathers!), and they’ll all tell you that the only thing standing between you and hypothermia or sunstroke is protective cycling gear. So, we gathered top suggestions from experienced cyclists and compiled them into temperature-wise tips to make it simpler for you to buy cycling clothing online.
Below Freezing to 40° F
While the basic jersey, cycling shorts, or leggings with comfortable shoes remain the same for all weathers, it’s the layers and the material of the clothing that makes all the difference. However, when the weather is biting cold, falling below freezing, and you’re getting ready for practice laps, start layering up with the thickest windproof thermal base layers first. Next, you should protect the extremities that go cold first, i.e., your feet, hands, and head. Thus, find thick, rubbery shoe covers, lobster gloves, or bar mitts over the gloves when it’s below zero. Finally, in order to prevent headaches from the cold winds, a balaclava face mask-like face covering with biking sunglasses should keep your skin and head protected. All in all, thermal layers under windproof leg warmers or tights with a thermal, waterproof vest and a thick, long-sleeve cycling jersey are the way to go.
41° F to 70° F
As the weather transitions from extreme cold to sudden precipitation, humidity can soon catch and impact your training. A weekend rider would fully understand the dilemma of being caught in such a fix when the morning of the ride was biting cold, but the unexpected pour hit when there’s still a good 2 hours of climbing intervals ahead. Experts recommend never underestimating the unpredictable nature of weather changes and always starting with ample layers in winters. When there’s a heavy chance of downpour, it’ll be wise to switch the long-sleeved cycling jersey for a rain jacket instead. PS, a pro tip: Use Vaseline on feet and legs to add a layer of protection from water and cold in addition to rain covers for your shoes and tights.
Higher than 70° F
Come summers, it’s safe to switch the thermals for lighter layers, but don’t make the mistake of riding out with just a short-sleeved jersey and shorts set. Especially in the early Spring, the weather can vary greatly from early morning to daytime and turn chilly come nightfall. So, take the safer route of a long-sleeved vest or arm warmers with your jersey, so you can simply take it off if it gets too hot. Apart from this, long-fingered gloves are still recommended to keep the grip on the handle tight and snug even when you’re sweating. As the weather gets hotter, you can surely suit your comfort with a short-sleeved jersey and shorts with fingerless gloves. But, never ignore UV protection on any day. Heatstroke may be an extreme hit, but the skin damage from sun exposure is gradual.
Hence, when buying cycling clothes online, the key is to have options to add and remove layers as the weather changes. The focus should always remain on protective gear to aid unrestrictive cycling. Shop for stylish and functional pieces, and have a fun ride ahead!