lmcq784,

First, might be helpful to give an idea of the temperatures you are likely to encounter and whether its cold-dry or wet-dry. Here in Vancouver (PNW), it basically rains and rains for the winter. Gets to freezing or slightly above freezing with some wind chill. Based on my rides this week so far, I wear a pair of thin lycra leggings and generic polyester shorts, thick socks and sneakers for shoes. When it gets colder, I have a pair of thicker, winter lycra leggings waiting for deployment. I also have a pair of generic rain pants from a rain suit I originally bought for golf. However I am unlikely to use it as I don't ride when it pouring rain.

For the top, I wear a long sleeve cotton t-shirt with a waterproof yet breathable cycling windbreaker. The jacket is more important than the pants. The jacket will also retain your body heat once you have warmed up on the ride.

A cycling-specific outer layer has:

- longer sleeves to prevent the sleeves from riding up your forearms when you bend at the elbows. The longer sleeves also allow a better seal with the hand gloves you are likely to be wearing so the cold wind doesn't pierce those joints.

- a snug fit if sized right so it doesn't catch as much wind

- a zippered collar design that keeps your neck warm

- a longer tail so the jacket drapes over your butt for protection against the elements

- nylon or some sort of high tech breathable yet water proof fabric

- some have pockets at the back or credit card pockets along the arms to carry small items for convenience

- bright colors with reflective stripes\paint silkscreened onto the jacket

They are well worth the initial investment. I bought mine discounted at my LBS for around $80. The key here is layering. A warm torso and feet goes a long ways to enjoying your commute. I find my ears getting cold a far greater discomfort so I think the next item on my list is a pair of ear muffs.