The most important No1 rule when choosing cycling apparel for winter: Dress according to the layering principle! No better way to help conquer the changing conditions between possible sweat-inducing uphill grovels in the sun and frosty downhills on woodland trails, whilst also protecting yourself against ice, slush and snow.
Baselayer: Merino or synthetic fibres?
Underwear made from merino wool is very suitable for biking, as there is often a change from the high heat of a sweaty climb followed by a cool descent. Merino wool shows its great advantage over synthetic fibres in such conditions: The yarn stores the heat and does not cool down abruptly due to the effects of the outside temperature. The heat management of merino underwear is more than good enough to help you get through hard training sessions in the cooler seasons.
Depending on your personal preferences or areas of use, you will find tops and bottoms in different material thicknesses from such brands as Icebreaker, Mons Royale and Ortovox. This allows you to perfectly finetune the “base” on your skin to the additional layers worn on top as well as to the respective outside temperature and weather.
Alternative synthetic fibre
As an alternative to merino, synthetic fibres in functional underwear can be just as advantageous for winter bikers and athletes. Of course, the fibres cool down more quickly in the wind and are less efficient at storing heat. However, if you wear them as the first layer using the layering principle, the good drying properties and the rapid removal of moisture can reliably ensure a great feeling of your skin. Breathable long-sleeves are hence, particularly suited for biking.
Im Winter kleiden sich Radfahrer am besten nach dem Zwiebelprinzip.
Midlayer: The second layer insulates.
The second layer in the layering principle is primarily responsible for your thermal insulation. Densely woven fabrics and more material than summer jerseys provide better protection against the cold, especially when winter apparel is concerned.
In addition, the fabrics are often roughened on the inside so that they can store more heat. Of course, a corresponding proportion of elastane (spandex) is also used to keep jerseys and bike shorts elastic. In addition, your freedom of movement is improved by a specific cut and combination of materials.
Warm bike jerseys
By using windproof membranes and softshell materials in the right places, such as highlighted by the Gore-Tex Infinium Windstopper, even the coldest winter storms will no longer stand a chance.
Assos offers its jerseys for different temperature ranges, similar to some underwear brands. The range extends from simple, light to full winter jerseys. Other manufacturers such as Gore Wear or Maloja also offer special jerseys and jackets for the winter season.
Radtrikots für den Winter bestehen häufig aus einer Kombination von winddichtem Material an der Vorderseite und atmungsaktivem Material an der Rückseite.
Warm bike shorts & tights
The bike shorts are also ought to be designed for the cold: The Windchill Bibtights from Endura (also available for women) have a warm Thermoroubaix fabric that insulates the skin and joints and reliably protects your body from wind and icy temperatures. A DWR coating makes them resistant to splash water.
Some winter cycling shorts are also available without an insert – either to wear your beloved bike bib underneath or so you can use the cycling shorts for other sports such as trail running or cross-country skiing.
Outer Shell: Weatherproof third layer
The third and top layer of cycling apparel is usually a waterproof and windproof jacket for classic weather protection against rain, snow, storm and water-repellent trousers. Brands such as Vaude, Fox, Ion or Sweet Protection have some awesome pieces on offer.
Radfahren im Winter hat einen ganz besonderen Reiz.
Auch die Natur hüllt sich im Winter in besondere Kleidung.
Functional accessories & shoes for winter biking
Your winter bicycle apparel will be completed by accessories like:
Both Assos, Castelli and Vaude offer a wide range of functional accessories – from neck warmers to socks and gloves. The rules for the mix of materials are similar to those for the above-mentioned apparel: light fabric for moderate temperatures and firmer or lined parts for areas of more use. Materials which stop all drafts from entering are particularly suitable for winter. This applies to beanies, face masks, arm warmers, leg warmers, gloves and overshoes.
Depending on the season, bikers should never forget, that they want to be seen. Integrated reflectors on clothing and accessories and bright colours really help keep you safe in gloomy winter weather.
Conclusion: Bike apparel for winter
With the right mix of clothing, you can easily extend the biking season right through winter. Banging a session out in a winter wonderland really has its perks, and it can be a real experience to defy the weather and rediscover some well-known routes from the summer.