The biggest problem I have had with the double layer thing ... shorts with something (capris, basketball shorts, tights, whatever) over them ... is that I sweat more in the double layer area. And when I sweat more in that area, I develop rashes and all sorts of extra discomfort on long rides. Even my very comfortable saddle starts to feel uncomfortable.

I can do the double layer (or even triple or quadruple) layer thing on very cold days, or for short rides, but not on warmish days and not on long rides.

I like leg warmers because they don't create that problem.


The next problem I have with the double layer thing is the tightness over the knees. I developed patello-femoral syndrome from wearing multiple layers tight over my knees on a bitterly cold century, and since then my knees have been sensitive to having things over them. Fortunately I have some articulated knee tights, but the leg warmers work well for that too because I can push them down so that they are baggy over the knees.


So yes, you can wear whatever you want over your shorts. There are lots of choices, but the leg warmers are a good, versatile choice.


Oh, and for me, it has to be a really nasty day before I'll wear wind or rain pants ... those are so uncomfortable. I sweat, they are tight over the knees, I can't get comfortable on the saddle ... all the features I don't like rolled into one piece of clothing.