Winter cycling brings its own set of challenges—from biting cold and wind chill to wet and unpredictable conditions. Without the right gear, rides can quickly become uncomfortable and unproductive. However, with the proper winter cycling kit, you can stay warm, dry, and enjoy your time on the bike while maintaining peak performance. Here’s how to gear up to tackle the elements this winter.
Layering is the cornerstone of staying comfortable during winter rides. It allows you to regulate your body temperature, wick away moisture, and adapt to changing conditions:
Layering for warmth and comfort
- Base layers: Start with a thermal, moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin and prevent that dreaded cold, damp feeling. A snug-fitting long-sleeve base layer works best for full coverage.
- Mid-layers: A thermal jersey or fleece-lined layer provides insulation without overheating. Breathable materials are key to trapping heat while allowing airflow.
- Outer layers: A windproof and water-resistant jacket protects against harsh weather. Look for lightweight, breathable options with ventilation to prevent overheating, even when you’re working hard.
Essential winter cycling gear
Jackets
A good winter cycling jacket is your first line of defence against the cold and wet. High-quality options combine windproof and water-resistant materials with breathable fabrics to keep you protected and comfortable. Reflective details add an extra layer of safety during those shorter winter days.
Example: The Castelli Go Jacket is a great all-rounder, offering stretch, windproofing, and water resistance in a lightweight design. Whether you’re layering it over a thermal base or wearing it as a standalone piece in milder conditions, its versatility ensures you’re ready for anything.
A high-quality winter cycling jacket is your first line of defence against the cold. Look for:
✔️ Windproof and water-resistant materials to block icy winds and rain
✔️ Breathable fabrics to prevent overheating
✔️ High-visibility details for safety in low-light conditions
Jerseys and mid-layers
Thermal jerseys and mid-layers are essential for insulation while remaining breathable to prevent overheating. Look for fabrics like fleece-lined Roubaix that trap warmth and wick moisture effectively. Features like a full-length zip allow you to fine-tune your temperature, and rear pockets provide handy storage for snacks or tools.
Layering a thermal jersey beneath a windproof jacket creates a winning combination, keeping you toasty without restricting movement.
Key features include:
✔️ Thermal Roubaix or fleece-lined fabric for warmth
✔️ A full-length zip for temperature control
✔️ Rear pockets for easy storage of essentials
Bib tights and legwear
Keeping your legs warm and protected is crucial for maintaining performance and comfort in winter. Bib tights provide full coverage, ensuring your core and legs are insulated. Features like fleece lining and windproof panels add extra protection against the cold.
Investing in high-quality bib tights is well worth it since they’ll stay on for the duration of your ride. Comfort-focused details like a padded chamois ensure that long training sessions remain enjoyable.
Choose:
✔️ Thermal, fleece-lined tights for added warmth
✔️ Windproof panels to protect against windchill
✔️ A comfortable chamois pad for long rides
Gloves
Cold hands can ruin a ride faster than anything else, making insulated gloves a must. Look for options with a thermal lining to retain warmth, windproof materials to block icy air, and water-resistant finishes for wet conditions. Grippy palms and touchscreen compatibility are practical additions, ensuring you can easily shift gears or check directions without removing your gloves.
Example: The Castelli Estremo Winter Gloves are built for extreme conditions, combining thick insulation with a fleece-lined palm for maximum warmth and control. With windproof fabric and secure Velcro closures, these gloves are ideal for temperatures as low as -5°C.
Winter cycling gloves should offer:
✔️ Insulation to protect against wind and cold
✔️ Water resistance for wet conditions
✔️ Touchscreen compatibility for ease of use with devices
Footwear and overshoes
Feet are particularly vulnerable in cold, wet conditions, so prioritising proper protection is key. Thermal socks made of wool or synthetic blends help retain heat, while waterproof overshoes provide a barrier against rain and wind. Look for overshoes with a snug fit, reinforced soles for grip, and reflective detailing for added visibility.
Example: The Fizik Winter Overshoe offers excellent protection, with a fully waterproof and windproof upper, reinforced soles, and reflective accents. Its snug design ensures no gaps between your bib tights and shoes, keeping you warm and dry all ride long.
Feet are particularly vulnerable to cold weather, so the right footwear is key. Consider:
✔️ Thermal socks made of wool or synthetic materials to keep feet warm
✔️ Waterproof overshoes to block wind and rain
✔️ Insulated cycling shoes for added warmth
Additional winter cycling tips
- Visibility: With shorter days and low-light conditions, ensure you’re visible by wearing reflective clothing and using front and rear lights.
- Hydration: Cold weather can suppress your thirst, but staying hydrated is crucial. Insulated bottles can prevent liquids from freezing.
- Bike maintenance: Winter roads can be hard on your bike. Clean your chain regularly, lubricate moving parts, and check your tyres for optimal grip and condition.
By choosing the right winter cycling gear and following these tips, you’ll stay warm, dry, and comfortable, making your rides more enjoyable even in challenging conditions. Explore Cadence Performance’s range of winter-ready cycling apparel to find the perfect kit for your needs. Happy riding! 🚴♂️❄️
Why choose Cadence?
At Cadence Performance, we do more than just fix bikes—we make cycling better. From expert mechanics and precision fittings to flexible memberships and world-class coaching, we’re here to keep you riding, smiling, and reaching new heights.
Pop into one of our locations or explore our services at CadencePerformance.com. Let’s ride together—your next great adventure is just a pedal away.
To learn more about cycle-to-work schemes or explore our membership perks, check out our blogs here and here.
Cadence Performance is on your local high street
- Cadence|Giant Crystal Palace, 2a Anerley Hill, London SE19 2AA
- Cadence|Giant Paddock Wood, 62-62a Maidstone Rd, Paddock Wood, TN12 6AF
- Cadence|Giant Shoreham, Little High St, Shoreham-by-Sea BN43 5JF
- Cadence|Giant St Paul’s, 200 Aldersgate St, London EC1A 4HD
- Cadence|Giant St Albans, N Orbital Rd, St Albans AL2 1DL
- Cadence|Giant Twickenham, 111 Heath Rd, Strawberry Hill, Twickenham TW1 4AF
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