Avoid unnecessary faffing by getting your clothing approach sorted!
Gore Lady Xenon Windproof Jacket
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It's that time of year again when the inevitable happens; it turns cold, it rains a lot, and is dark most of the time. Keeping motivation levels high when the roads are frosting over or rain is pounding on the windows is difficult, and unless you're fortunate enough to own a second home in the Caribbean or packing the bike away for the winter, taking a few steps to prepare for the winter are vital.
Luckily, conditions don't usually get that extreme in most of the UK, but still, you can never underestimate how seriously cold it can get. Getting cold is not pleasant so it's crucial to be ready for the change in temperatures when you're riding. The weather can easily change in the time you're out - the day may start fine and clear but if it turns while you're in the middle of nowhere, adequate clothing is a good step to preventing, in the worst case scenario, hypothermia.
Something easily forgotten but which can make a huge difference, the wind-chill factor needs to be taken into account. It may only be 5 degrees outside, but travel at 20mph and you're looking at a temperature in the region of -15 degrees. Yikes!
To help you prepare for the winter, we've rounded up some of our favourite cold weather gear, with advice on layering and other essential items to keep the cold at bay.
Waterproof/windproof jackets
This is perhaps the most essential item in your arsenal, a lightweight shell that can pack-up small is ideal for most conditions. Gore Alpine Paclite Lady Jacket is one such lightweight shell that is wind and waterproof and breathable too. It packs easily into a jersey pocket and offers incredible water-proofing, and copes with a range of conditions. We also like Specialized's Women's Wind jacket, which is extremely lightweight and packable, and offers good value for money. It's windproof and breathable and has a close fitting but stretchy fabric.
We've been impressed with Fox clothing before, and the Women's Convert Jacket didn't disappoint. Its USP is the versatile design feature, the arms zip off leaving you with a gilet - perfect for many occasions.
It may not rain all that much, but when it's not raining you can guarantee it'll be windy. On days like these a wind shell is an ideal accompaniment, some are slightly waterproof if you do get caught in a shower. DHB's Rogate Jersey is a lightweight jersey-cum-jacket with great styling and a fantastic price tag, it has windproof panels on the front to keep you warm and the fabric is stretchy and comfortable if you needed a midlayer on a really cold day.
Revolution Quest Women's baselayer
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Layers
Layering can be a fine art; you can never be entirely sure how much you need to wear, what with the frequently changeable conditions only adding to the problem. Mystic Meg's crystal ball would certainly come in handy here. But get your layering sorted and you shouldn't have any issues again. Experience counts a lot, so getting out on your bike and trying different clothing combinations until you find the right balance is our top tip.
The beauty of layering is it allows you to adjust what you're wearing should you get too cold or warm mid-ride. Start with a baselayer, a long-sleeve being preferable in the winter, and add thick layers depending on the temperature. We're partial to the Merino wool variety; the natural wool is hard to beat for comfort next to the skin, and if it gets wet you'll still stay warm. It's also odour resistant which is nice. On the other hand, man-made fabrics boast of high wicking and temperature control, and usually come with a more attractive price tag. Revolution's Quest Baselayer is a bargain at £20 or for a high priced Merino option we like Surly's Wool jersey but it is pricey at £99, there are cheaper Merino versions available though.
Tights/bibs
Three quarter bibs or knee-warmers are ok until it gets really cold. Until it does we prefer to use bibs and knee-warmers as they're versatile. Protective's Glide 3/4 tights are a good choice when it's not too cold but you still need to protect your kness. For full length bib tights Northwave Ladie's Dream Bibs are a work of beauty, no more awkward bib straps across the bust and not bad price at £69.99 either.
Tights or leggings are essentials too, we've seen windproof panels on the front becoming popular. Some have a padded insert and others are purely leggings to allow you the choice of shorts underneath. You can check out our Winter tights Buyer's Guide for more advice.
Northwave Skull Cap
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Gloves
Full-finger gloves are a must when it's cold, but the level of protection you want directly affects the level of control. A more thickly constructed glove can compromise grip on the bars and controls, so try them on before you buy to make sure you're happy with the grip.
SealSkinz are experienced in making waterproof products, the Winter Race gloves fail to disappoint. 100% waterproof plus a nice leather palm for better grip.
Cap/head warmer
With modern helmets being so well ventilated, a head-warmer can be a necessary addition to your attire, if you want to keep your ears from falling off. try some Ear Warmers and a Skull Cap, you can't go wrong for the price and comfort levels. We;ve been testing the Northwave Skull Cap with it's windproof panel and reflective logos, it fits nicely under a helmet too!
Overshoes
Getting cold fingers is no fun, but getting wet and cold toes is even worse, so Overshoes are mandatory when puddles are abound. Our favourites are Pro-vision's Aqua-Repels. They're totally waterproof and windproof thanks to the thick neoprene material, and two sizes cover most shoes. A large reflective strip on the back is a nice nod towards safety through the dark winter months.
Be organised
Get ready the night before: Save time in the morning before a ride by getting your bike ready and have all your clothing laid out, so you just roll out of bed and be ready really quickly.
Emergency contact: Riding in the winter is more dangerous. Dark, wet and slippery roads don't lend themselves to being at all safe, so ensure you let somebody know your proposed route. And take a mobile phone, and make sure it's charge up!
Food and drink: Energy levels drop more quickly in cold weather, so fuel up before you leave and take food with you, or money so you can refuel at a shop. And even though it's cold, still drink plenty of water, little and often.
Enjoy yourself: Don't forget that all the miles you put in through the winter will pay back next Spring. Think early season form.
Summary
We're the first to admit that riding in the winter is tough. We'd much rather pack our bikes, bags and sunscreen and jet off to sunnier climes. That's not going to happen so, so as sure as it will probably rain tomorrow, the right clothing can make the difference to you getting through the winter. You don't need much to get started, but spend wisely and you'll be able to enjoy (as much as you can when it's cold and wet) putting the miles in through the winter. A couple of baselayers and midlayers, a quality waterproof and some tights are the basics you need, with full finger gloves, headwarmers and overshoes also worthy purchases. Remember the importance of layering, there's no right or wrong, but you'll find the right combination after a couple of rides. But remember, enjoy your riding, and think of next Spring as inspiration to keep you riding.
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