Cycling clothing for cold weather: how to assemble a set

Look at the conditions of the entire trip

Before going out, check the temperature at the start and return, wind, probability of precipitation, and duration of stops. Separately assess open areas and descents. The kit that is comfortable on the climb may be too light after it.

Make the first rides in new clothing on a short familiar loop, with the option to shorten the route. Record the weather, layers, and sensations: this will create your own selection scheme. Use the temperature range promised by the store only as a preliminary guide.

Divide tasks between layers

Подробности отдельных вещей: выбор базового слоя, Rain protection and перчатки и бахилы.

Base layer

Wear a layer under your jersey that suits your activity and does not crease. It is important that the whole system can wick moisture: one good material under an impermeable shell will not solve the problem.

Warming layer

A thermal jersey, a fleece or a separate insulation help to keep warm. Choose the thickness taking into account the intensity: excess insulation also interferes with a comfortable ride.

Wind protection

A vest or jacket covers the torso on open roads and descents. Check where the protective panels are located and which areas are left for ventilation.

Rain protection

A windproof item is not necessarily designed for prolonged rain. Check the purpose of the fabric, seams, zipper, and ventilation options according to the description of the specific model.

It is convenient to remove the removable layer before an intense section and put it on before a long descent. Check in advance if it fits in the pocket and if you can zip it up with gloves.

What to see from Chinese brands

In seasonal selection of MTBshnik Dini There are GRC, Lameda, YKYWBIKE, SPEXCEL / SPPC, and Darevie. The author draws attention to insulation, fabrics, and insert options. Use these brands as a starting point for your search; specifications need to be checked against the selected product.

• GRC. Look at the range for cool weather and find out which layer is supposed to be under the jacket.
• Lameda. Compare regular jerseys with insulated ones: the brand name does not indicate the season.
• YKYWBIKE. For long cycling pants, check the insulation, length and the chosen diaper option at the same time.
• SPEXCEL / SPPC. Check the model name and material description, especially if the seller has several similar cards.
• Darevie. In the official card Syncc Thermal Bib Tights A protective front panel, a fleece back and a foam diaper are indicated. This is an example of why characteristics need to be read by model, not by brand.

We do not transfer statements about fabrics from one product to the entire brand. A more extensive list is available in an article about the Chinese bicycle form.

Why familiar material does not make two things the same

One textile factory can have different fabrics: with different densities, elasticity, treatments and purposes. Even matching the commercial name of the material does not mean the same construction of the finished clothing.

Specify not only the fabric supplier, but also its intended use: front panel, back, sleeves, or the entire garment. For insulated items, the outer shell and ventilation are important. For cycling pants, the cut, straps, and padding also matter. Compare the combination of features, not just one large label in the product card.

Hands, feet and head are part of the same set

Make sure there's enough room in your shoes for the chosen socks: a too tight combination is uncomfortable. Choose overshoes to match the type of shoes and riding conditions. Gloves should allow for confident braking and shifting, and a thin cap or buff should fit under the helmet without affecting its fit.

Try the full kit in a cycling position. The cuffs should not leave any gaps, the legs should not pull under the knee, and the pockets should not disappear under the jacket. Take a dry extra layer if the route includes long stops.

Fitting and first trip checklist

1. Put on all the planned layers, shoes, gloves and helmet.
2. Get on the bike: assess the length of the back and sleeves, the freedom of the shoulders and the pressure of the straps.
3. Check the zippers, access to food and phone, space for the removed vest.
4. On a short lap, compare the sensations on a calm section, ascent and descent.
5. If it gets too hot, reduce insulation in advance or open ventilation; after stopping, do not continue in a wet, cold kit.

Read about preparing your bike and choosing a winter route in a separate guide. Source of the seasonal list of brands — Mtbshnik Dinya; kit check scheme — FATRACING editorial checklist.