off layers as you warm up than to be cold without additional clothing to put on.
The key to successfully dealing with the cold is to dress in layers and keep skin dry. The body loses heat quickly when it’s wet from rain or sweat, and this increases the danger of hypothermia. A properly dressed cyclist can tolerate extremes in air temperature, but a variation of only about 7F degrees in the body’s core temperature. So the most important physiological adjustment to cold is the maintenance of body temperature.
The body’s reaction to heat loss is to reduce peripheral blood flow and constrict surface blood vessels. This is why keeping hands and feet warm on a cold ride can be so difficult.
For many years before the advent of synthetic materials, wool was the fabric of choice for cold-weather cycling. Wool is a unique natural fiber that has the ability to retain body heat and wick moisture from the skin. It insulates even in the rain. Wool has the reputation of being itchy, difficult to care for, and apt to shrink and lose its shape. Recent advancements have solved these problems in wool garments made to be worn by active people. They are machine washable, shrink resistant, and comfortable against the skin.
But there are other choices, too. Synthetic fibers may have the same properties as wool but cost less and last longer. These include polypropylene and polyesters that go by such names as Thermax. Cannondale
has even introduced apparel made from carbon fiber.
Cycling jersey UK needs to block water and wind without trapping so much body heat that a cyclist becomes wet with perspiration. Materials such as Gore-Tex and eVent accomplish this with varying degrees of success. A good cycling jacket will also have openings and vents that allow enough fresh air to flow through to limit heat buildup. Adjusting airflow with the front zipper is the trick to helping any jacket work better.
Underneath, the layering of clothing is the key to keeping the core warm, comfortable, and dry. Layering also gives you the flexibility to add or remove clothing based on weather conditions and your level of exertion.
The rule of thumb for most experienced winter riders is to dress so that it feels chilly during the first few minutes. Starting off cool and warming up is lots better than starting off warm and getting hot. Moderate exercise even in subfreezing temperatures produces 7-10 times as much heat as the body at rest.
Clothes that retain heat and moisture can make for a very uncomfortable ride. When temperatures are in the 50-60F range, arm and leg warmers and a light wicking shirt (“base layer”) under a jersey will work well for most riders. You should always keep your knees covered when temperatures are below 65F degrees. The knee joint has poor circulation so it is one of the first areas susceptible to cold.
When the mercury slips into the 40-50F range you will need to add a skullcap or balaclava, long-finger gloves, toe covers, and a long-sleeve jersey or breathable windbreaker.
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