How do you stay warm?
#1
SuperGimp
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How do you stay warm?
I've honestly never really had to think about it before but I have a little issue now. I got up and hit the road at 6:30 this morning and it was about 50 out, so I wore my cycling windbreaker, which apparently doesn't breathe at all. That's fine if the weather stays cool, keeps my arms and torso warm. Toes still get cold but its only 50, no big deal.
So later on the ride it starts to heat up and at some point I have to remove the jacket, but it's too bulky to pack into a jersey pocket, so I wadded it up and just tied it around my waist.
Obviously arm warmers would have worked well for the first hour, and then rolled into a ball and stuffed into a pocket, but what's a good solution to keep my torso warm for just part of the ride?
I get very confused with talk of base layers - some appear to be for warmth and some appear to be for heat control on a hot day and I can't easily tell from reading about the products which is which (unless it's made of fleece or something) Is there anything that's dual purpose?
Anybody have the Cliff notes?
So later on the ride it starts to heat up and at some point I have to remove the jacket, but it's too bulky to pack into a jersey pocket, so I wadded it up and just tied it around my waist.
Obviously arm warmers would have worked well for the first hour, and then rolled into a ball and stuffed into a pocket, but what's a good solution to keep my torso warm for just part of the ride?
I get very confused with talk of base layers - some appear to be for warmth and some appear to be for heat control on a hot day and I can't easily tell from reading about the products which is which (unless it's made of fleece or something) Is there anything that's dual purpose?
Anybody have the Cliff notes?
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What works for me is Underarmour. I can link you to what I use if you need it. I use it for my upper body. I have the underarmour "pants" but only use them when it is really cold out. I also use wind breaker pants too which have been great.
For my feet, try neoprene socks. They are amazing. They do not let your feet sweat but they stay warm.
For my feet, try neoprene socks. They are amazing. They do not let your feet sweat but they stay warm.
#3
SuperGimp
Thread Starter
Link please!
Are those neoprene socks things you put OVER your cycling shoes? Like booties? I've seen those. I might have to get a pair for next year.
Are those neoprene socks things you put OVER your cycling shoes? Like booties? I've seen those. I might have to get a pair for next year.
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I have a windbreaker that converts to a vest. I find the vest helpful this time of year. Wool is probably the most dual purpose of material for heat and cooling. It is mostly about moisture control in staying warm or cool.
Eric
Eric
Last edited by ericthered; 03-10-12 at 03:08 PM.
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no, they are socks that we wear and then put your shoes on.
https://www.gatorgear.biz/basicsocks.html
https://www.underarmour.com/shop/us/en/pid1220574-001
https://www.gatorgear.biz/basicsocks.html
https://www.underarmour.com/shop/us/en/pid1220574-001
#6
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Typically, base layers are to keep you warm but they also should keep you dry through a wicking action. REI's site talks about different fabrics for base layers and how they are best used:
https://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/underwear.html
I have a problem with using a layer under a jersey because if you warm up it is hard to ditch the layer. I guess that is why people get arm warmers. So far, when it is cold I wear a wool top with a partial zip and a light jacket. I have a rain jacket that isn't vented much and a wind jacket that is well vented.
Today it is cold down here and my cousin and I are going for a short, maybe 6 mile ride. I am going to wear jeans and long underwear because I am a wimp.
https://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/underwear.html
I have a problem with using a layer under a jersey because if you warm up it is hard to ditch the layer. I guess that is why people get arm warmers. So far, when it is cold I wear a wool top with a partial zip and a light jacket. I have a rain jacket that isn't vented much and a wind jacket that is well vented.
Today it is cold down here and my cousin and I are going for a short, maybe 6 mile ride. I am going to wear jeans and long underwear because I am a wimp.
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I've honestly never really had to think about it before but I have a little issue now. I got up and hit the road at 6:30 this morning and it was about 50 out, so I wore my cycling windbreaker, which apparently doesn't breathe at all. That's fine if the weather stays cool, keeps my arms and torso warm. Toes still get cold but its only 50, no big deal.
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I Only have about 50 miles on my bike so far, so I don't have a ton of experience with the increased wind load, but have years of long distance hiking experience where I have been in temps from mid 20's up to 90 all in the same week.
When I am active I find I don't need a great deal of clothing if I layer correctly. My MOST versatile piece is a very light highly breathable windbreaker. With one or two layers below this I am comfortable from 20's to the mid 60's.
Done three different rides so far and here is what I found. One day in the 40's required bike shorts, and wind pants over them with a long sleeve jersey and wind breaker. The other two days have been in the 50's and I found that either just a long sleeve jersey and shorts, or a short sleeve jersey with arm Warmers was fine.
I was cold for the first few miles, but quickly warmed up.
I did at least have my windbreaker stuffed into my jersey pockets on the last two rides but never needed to put it on.
Cliff notes version, don't wear cotton in any layer and spend the money to get a super light BREATHABLE wind jacket.
When I am active I find I don't need a great deal of clothing if I layer correctly. My MOST versatile piece is a very light highly breathable windbreaker. With one or two layers below this I am comfortable from 20's to the mid 60's.
Done three different rides so far and here is what I found. One day in the 40's required bike shorts, and wind pants over them with a long sleeve jersey and wind breaker. The other two days have been in the 50's and I found that either just a long sleeve jersey and shorts, or a short sleeve jersey with arm Warmers was fine.
I was cold for the first few miles, but quickly warmed up.
I did at least have my windbreaker stuffed into my jersey pockets on the last two rides but never needed to put it on.
Cliff notes version, don't wear cotton in any layer and spend the money to get a super light BREATHABLE wind jacket.
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What works for me is Underarmour. I can link you to what I use if you need it. I use it for my upper body. I have the underarmour "pants" but only use them when it is really cold out. I also use wind breaker pants too which have been great.
For my feet, try neoprene socks. They are amazing. They do not let your feet sweat but they stay warm.
For my feet, try neoprene socks. They are amazing. They do not let your feet sweat but they stay warm.
I have some long tights with a chamois built in, and they get a workout all winter. Neoprene shoe covers, full-finger gloves, and we are ready to rock down to about 50*. Below that, I sometimes wear a balaclava mask under my helmet.
#10
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I wear a pair of golf gloves, just enough to cut out the wind. About 2 pairs of socks. 2 to 3 shirts (short sleeve), a pair of arm warmers, and a wind breaker jacket. That does me good for down to 37 degrees... I like the cold. Oh and a pair of sun glasses, just to keep the cold air off my eyes.
#11
Senior Member
For cool to cold riding, I use some or all of the following clothing:
- Craft ProZero Windstopper short-sleeved base layer
- Pearl Izumi Thermal Arm Warmers
- Pearl Izumi Thermal Knee Warmers
- Pearl Izumi Cyclone gloves
- Gore Phantom Windstopper jacket
- Gore Contest Windstopper tights without chamois
- Louis Garneau Toe Covers
Craft's short-sleeved Windstopper t-shirt is really a phenomenal piece of clothing! The wind-proof front panel goes a long way toward keeping you warm. The t-shirt combined with arm and knee warmers and wind-proof Cyclone gloves is often all I need for early- or late-season rides. When it really gets cold, I use the Phantom jacket and Contest tights. The Phantom jacket converts to a vest, which adds to the versatility. Tights don't have chamois, so I wear them over my regular cycling shorts. Toe covers and a slightly thicker sock keep my feet warm, as long as it isn't raining heavily.
- Craft ProZero Windstopper short-sleeved base layer
- Pearl Izumi Thermal Arm Warmers
- Pearl Izumi Thermal Knee Warmers
- Pearl Izumi Cyclone gloves
- Gore Phantom Windstopper jacket
- Gore Contest Windstopper tights without chamois
- Louis Garneau Toe Covers
Craft's short-sleeved Windstopper t-shirt is really a phenomenal piece of clothing! The wind-proof front panel goes a long way toward keeping you warm. The t-shirt combined with arm and knee warmers and wind-proof Cyclone gloves is often all I need for early- or late-season rides. When it really gets cold, I use the Phantom jacket and Contest tights. The Phantom jacket converts to a vest, which adds to the versatility. Tights don't have chamois, so I wear them over my regular cycling shorts. Toe covers and a slightly thicker sock keep my feet warm, as long as it isn't raining heavily.
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Typically, base layers are to keep you warm but they also should keep you dry through a wicking action. REI's site talks about different fabrics for base layers and how they are best used:
https://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/underwear.html
I have a problem with using a layer under a jersey because if you warm up it is hard to ditch the layer. I guess that is why people get arm warmers. So far, when it is cold I wear a wool top with a partial zip and a light jacket. I have a rain jacket that isn't vented much and a wind jacket that is well vented.
Today it is cold down here and my cousin and I are going for a short, maybe 6 mile ride. I am going to wear jeans and long underwear because I am a wimp.
https://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/underwear.html
I have a problem with using a layer under a jersey because if you warm up it is hard to ditch the layer. I guess that is why people get arm warmers. So far, when it is cold I wear a wool top with a partial zip and a light jacket. I have a rain jacket that isn't vented much and a wind jacket that is well vented.
Today it is cold down here and my cousin and I are going for a short, maybe 6 mile ride. I am going to wear jeans and long underwear because I am a wimp.
Gold is right. I would add that it protects your chest from wind and the arm warmers do not.
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I Only have about 50 miles on my bike so far, so I don't have a ton of experience with the increased wind load, but have years of long distance hiking experience where I have been in temps from mid 20's up to 90 all in the same week.
When I am active I find I don't need a great deal of clothing if I layer correctly. My MOST versatile piece is a very light highly breathable windbreaker. With one or two layers below this I am comfortable from 20's to the mid 60's.
Done three different rides so far and here is what I found. One day in the 40's required bike shorts, and wind pants over them with a long sleeve jersey and wind breaker. The other two days have been in the 50's and I found that either just a long sleeve jersey and shorts, or a short sleeve jersey with arm Warmers was fine.
I was cold for the first few miles, but quickly warmed up.
I did at least have my windbreaker stuffed into my jersey pockets on the last two rides but never needed to put it on.
Cliff notes version, don't wear cotton in any layer and spend the money to get a super light BREATHABLE wind jacket.
When I am active I find I don't need a great deal of clothing if I layer correctly. My MOST versatile piece is a very light highly breathable windbreaker. With one or two layers below this I am comfortable from 20's to the mid 60's.
Done three different rides so far and here is what I found. One day in the 40's required bike shorts, and wind pants over them with a long sleeve jersey and wind breaker. The other two days have been in the 50's and I found that either just a long sleeve jersey and shorts, or a short sleeve jersey with arm Warmers was fine.
I was cold for the first few miles, but quickly warmed up.
I did at least have my windbreaker stuffed into my jersey pockets on the last two rides but never needed to put it on.
Cliff notes version, don't wear cotton in any layer and spend the money to get a super light BREATHABLE wind jacket.
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I'm in the Under Armour camp, too. Cold Gear, under my jersey. Works great.
I have some long tights with a chamois built in, and they get a workout all winter. Neoprene shoe covers, full-finger gloves, and we are ready to rock down to about 50*. Below that, I sometimes wear a balaclava mask under my helmet.
I have some long tights with a chamois built in, and they get a workout all winter. Neoprene shoe covers, full-finger gloves, and we are ready to rock down to about 50*. Below that, I sometimes wear a balaclava mask under my helmet.
#16
SuperGimp
Thread Starter
Thanks for the tips and links so far...
I'm particularly looking for something that will function in cool to hot weather OR can be removed easily and stowed in a pocket. It sounds like there are some better options out there now, like jackets with removable sleeves or maybe that wind stopper T-shirt.
How's that windstopper t-shirt in warmer weather? Annoying or unnoticeable? That + arm warmers would be slick.
I'm particularly looking for something that will function in cool to hot weather OR can be removed easily and stowed in a pocket. It sounds like there are some better options out there now, like jackets with removable sleeves or maybe that wind stopper T-shirt.
How's that windstopper t-shirt in warmer weather? Annoying or unnoticeable? That + arm warmers would be slick.
#18
SuperGimp
Thread Starter
Not sure how going faster deals with wind.
What do you go faster than?
What do you go faster than?
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I just went on a 3-hour ride at about 48 degrees with a light wind. I wore a light beanie under my helmet, department store knock-offs of UnderArmor long sleeve shirt and long pants baselayer, a quarter-zip winter-weight long-sleeve tech fabric jersey, bicycle shorts, jeans (yeah, I know), merino wool socks, and light hiking boots. I honestly would have been fine in regular shoes but the conditions are pretty sloppy around here so I wore the boots more because they are waterproof. I was comfortably cool heading into the wind and warm but not sweaty with the wind at my back. When I changed clothes, my waistband and pits were damp but the rest was dry, so I figure I had it about right.
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Thanks for the tips and links so far...
I'm particularly looking for something that will function in cool to hot weather OR can be removed easily and stowed in a pocket. It sounds like there are some better options out there now, like jackets with removable sleeves or maybe that wind stopper T-shirt.
How's that windstopper t-shirt in warmer weather? Annoying or unnoticeable? That + arm warmers would be slick.
I'm particularly looking for something that will function in cool to hot weather OR can be removed easily and stowed in a pocket. It sounds like there are some better options out there now, like jackets with removable sleeves or maybe that wind stopper T-shirt.
How's that windstopper t-shirt in warmer weather? Annoying or unnoticeable? That + arm warmers would be slick.
LS crew neck standard (not cold weather) compression top, then a regular ss or vest jersey and a light windproof cycling jacket. When it warms up I remove the jacket (folds up into pocket) and it's always comfortable. The compression top and jersey wick away the moisture and for me at least, this combination is fine. Now strangely enough the compression top protects from the chill and yet when the air temperature warms up it doesn't feel uncomfortable.
As you well know there are lots of variables such as wind, how much effort is being expended and so on, so ultimately it will involve some trial and error on your behalf to find what works best for you.
#21
Senior Member
My windproof vest is one of my favorites and very versitile. It keeps my core warm and is also easy to vent. It is also easy to store. I also have a sleeveless shirt that I like. I put over a long sleeve jersey or shirt. I can take both the vest and shirt off if need be. I think the shirt is a Champion C-9. I picked it up at Target for 10 or 12 bucks. I rather have my arms cool, than overheat.
I have an expandable saddle bag. I put it on my bike when I am on along ride or when the weather is in between...50s. I also put it on and think I'll be shedding or adding clothes.
I also do the beenie under my helmet. I think that make a big difference in keeping me warm. It is easy to take off and store.
Underarmour works well. I like Nike dry-fit too.
I have an expandable saddle bag. I put it on my bike when I am on along ride or when the weather is in between...50s. I also put it on and think I'll be shedding or adding clothes.
I also do the beenie under my helmet. I think that make a big difference in keeping me warm. It is easy to take off and store.
Underarmour works well. I like Nike dry-fit too.
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For your ride, I would wear:
* l/s mesh light baselayer
* s/s cycling jersey
* softshell light jacket (breathable, could even be a l/s jersey)
* cycling shorts
* light unpadded running tights (no fleece)
* medium-weight wool cycling socks
* my keen bike sandals
* long-fingered gloves
* lycra beanie cap (comes down over ears)
* safety glasses or sunglasses
* drawstring bag to carry jacket or tights when they come off
The windbreakers I save for when it's windy or there is chance of rain.
breathability is very important to keep you dry and comfortable
* l/s mesh light baselayer
* s/s cycling jersey
* softshell light jacket (breathable, could even be a l/s jersey)
* cycling shorts
* light unpadded running tights (no fleece)
* medium-weight wool cycling socks
* my keen bike sandals
* long-fingered gloves
* lycra beanie cap (comes down over ears)
* safety glasses or sunglasses
* drawstring bag to carry jacket or tights when they come off
The windbreakers I save for when it's windy or there is chance of rain.
breathability is very important to keep you dry and comfortable
#23
Senior Member
I do not have either arm or leg warmers. Subsequently my progression goes something like this:
Warm and Sunny = SS jersey and bib shorts
Cool to cold but expected to warm up during the ride = lightweight LS polypro base layer under SS jersey and Bib shorts.
Cold but expected to warm up or light rain = as above with the addition of a wind breaker (mesh backed) vest (packable)
Cold and not warming = LS jersey, mesh backed vest or jacket (packable), tights over bib shorts
Steady rain = light LS jersey or LS base layer under SS jersey, breathable jacket w/o mesh but vented along bottom of shoulders (not packable), tights over bibs
It rains here quite a bit so I have a pretty good selection of jackets and vests, both packable and non, to choose from. I really, really wish I had shoe covers. My feet get wet and cold. Anyone want to recomend some for size 51's? And I've just ordered but haven't recieved yet, some 3/4 length bibs to help keep my knees warm on cool weather days. Which, seem to become an issue before I need the full length tights.
The LS polypro baselayer under SS jersey is one of my more frequent go to combo's for larger temperature swings, as it provides more core than arm warmth and then removes that extra core warmth when the arms come off. However, it does require that you're not particularly modest or adverse to stopping in order to remove it. I don't see as much value in arm warmers. However, I've never tried them and Mrs. Fred really likes hers. She combines them with a packable vest for transitional rides.
Warm and Sunny = SS jersey and bib shorts
Cool to cold but expected to warm up during the ride = lightweight LS polypro base layer under SS jersey and Bib shorts.
Cold but expected to warm up or light rain = as above with the addition of a wind breaker (mesh backed) vest (packable)
Cold and not warming = LS jersey, mesh backed vest or jacket (packable), tights over bib shorts
Steady rain = light LS jersey or LS base layer under SS jersey, breathable jacket w/o mesh but vented along bottom of shoulders (not packable), tights over bibs
It rains here quite a bit so I have a pretty good selection of jackets and vests, both packable and non, to choose from. I really, really wish I had shoe covers. My feet get wet and cold. Anyone want to recomend some for size 51's? And I've just ordered but haven't recieved yet, some 3/4 length bibs to help keep my knees warm on cool weather days. Which, seem to become an issue before I need the full length tights.
The LS polypro baselayer under SS jersey is one of my more frequent go to combo's for larger temperature swings, as it provides more core than arm warmth and then removes that extra core warmth when the arms come off. However, it does require that you're not particularly modest or adverse to stopping in order to remove it. I don't see as much value in arm warmers. However, I've never tried them and Mrs. Fred really likes hers. She combines them with a packable vest for transitional rides.
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#24
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With regard to your baselayer question. I go for polypro or capilene type polyesters over lycra style garments. They (polyester) do a decent job of both providing some warmth and helping transmit moisture away from my skin. I hate the clammy sandwhich bag feel of wearing a waterproof jacket over bare arms. So, I frequently call into action a silk weight LS baselayer before the temperature alone would require it.
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Birth Certificate, Passport, Marriage License Driver's License and Residency Permit all say I'm a Fred. I guess there's no denying it.
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