Our Guide to Winter Cycling Gear
So you’ve decided you want to cycle in the colder months? Well, in order to avoid catching a cold, you’re going to need the right winter cycling gear.
We find that the trick is to layer up. Opting for multiple light layers can come in handy when you work up a sweat and need to cool down quickly. Adding extra layers can also be helpful if you happen to get wet and need a quick change to keep warm and dry.
We’ve rounded up a list of our absolute essential clothes and cycling equipment for braving the winter elements like a pro. We’ve looked at items from a range of cycling clothing brands and narrowed everything down to our top two favourites. Whether you’re looking to wrap up on a budget or you want to invest in some longer lasting items, there is something for everyone in our guide to British cycling in the winter.
Cycling base layers
Let’s start at the beginning: the base layer. This is arguably the most important piece of clothing you will need as it’s your foundation. A base layer can help with regulating your body temperature as they work to absorb your sweat, helping you to keep warm in the cold weather. Choosing a lightweight material that feels almost like a second skin is best for optimal range of movement.
Our top picks:
Aeron Winter Long Sleeve Base Layer, DHB.
A premium base layer without the hefty price tag at £35. Made from a hydrophobic polypropylene, this soft garment is designed for breathability - perfect for those long distance journeys. This base is also anti-odour to avoid any awkward moments.
Perform Bamboo Base Layer, BAM.
This BAM base layer is made from a blend of sustainable bamboo and organic cotton so you already know it’s a super soft option. If you have sensitive skin, this base layer is hypoallergenic so it’s a great option. BAM also offers a range of colours and patterns across their base layer garments so you can get as colourful or as basic as you like!
Cycling jackets
Next up is your jacket. When it comes to winter cycling clothes and jackets you should look for insulating properties. You’ll also want to aim for something water resistant as a general rule. Your jacket is usually the final layer so make sure to choose wisely as this is your last chance to add any warmth for those chilly journeys.
Our top picks:
Altura Womens Nevis III Waterproof Jacket in Yellow
As the days become shorter during winter and it becomes darker, you want to aim for maximum visibility on your ride. This jacket by Altura at £48.95 has an all-over reflective finish, helping to illuminate your body to oncoming traffic. Safety aside, this jacket is fully waterproof with Strategically located retroreflective trims for increased visibility.
R5 GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ Insulated Jacket, Gore Wear.
This super lightweight jacket provides superior protection from the wind and cold. It’s made from quick-drying materials making it perfect for rainy rides. This jacket is definitely an investment but for the quality, it’s well worth the splurge.
Cycling Caps
Make sure to keep your head and ears covered up with a winter cycling hat. This is essential for cold weather riding when the wind is at its worst. We would go for something waterproof and most importantly - secure. Don’t forget to factor in your cycle helmet, you’ll need something relatively thin to fit comfortably underneath.
Our top picks:
This hat is your go-to for wetter conditions. With a breathable panel at the back of the neck, you’ll avoid a dreaded sweat running down your face mid-cycle fiasco. It also comes with 360° reflective binding for an added safety boost in the darker months.
If you’re looking for full wind coverage, this Castelli skull cap is our winner. Made from a high quality GORE-TEX INFINIUM fabric, this one will withstand the elements. The handy visor is also useful for fending off pesky raindrops keeping your vision clear as you ride. At £42, this cap is on the pricier side but we think it’s worthy of the price.
Cycling face cover
Great for keeping your face warm and also for keeping safe if you need to pop into the shops! A face cover for winter cycling is essential for stopping the bitter cold from burning your throat. This piece of equipment is perfect for moisture management to keep your face dry through your ride.
Our top picks:
This cycling face cover doubles up as a hat with all-round protection from head to neck. It’s made with a merino wool blend so you can be sure to stay warm even if it becomes wet. This option comes in three sizes so you can find your perfect snug fit.
M GORE® WINDSTOPPER® Face Warmer, Gore Wear.
For a more subtle option, this face cover offers breathability while protecting you from the cold. This also comes with the added benefit of a nose opening with holes around the mouth, a great option for those who don’t like feeling caged in.
Eye Gear
You may think that regular sunglasses will cut it when going out for a ride, but Cycling Eye wear is so much more than just sun protection. Your eyes are vulnerable while cycling to many elements including dirt and insects.
So cycling eyewear protects the eye with ergonomic wraparound design, anti fogging technology and the right level of UV protection for the season.
Our top picks:
Oakley Jawbreaker Prism Road sunglasses, Oakley, £92
The Oakley Jawbreaker Prism Road Sunglasses are the ultimate in design and cutting edge technology with:
- Fast, secure lens replacement with Switchlock™ interchangeable lens technology
- Lightweight O Matter™ frame material with ellipse metal icon accents
- Unobtainium® earsocks and nose pads for increased comfort and performance
Sungod Vulcans TF - design your own glasses, SunGod
Fully customisable top spec 8KO lenses, constructed by 2mm nylon, 8KO are the lightest and optically superior to the industry standard polycarbonate.
They come in a range of colourways to suit your style. Starting at £125.
Cycling water bottles
You may not have even considered needing a specific water bottle for winter cycling but drinking frozen water in icy conditions is no fun. You should consider the shape of the bottle as the most important factor since you will have to fit it in the bottle cage. If you’re using a backpack, you’ll want to choose a lightweight bottle to avoid any excess strain while you cycle.
Our top picks:
RaceOne R1 I.GLOO Thermal Bottle 550ml
550cc of fresh energy and hydration composed by a double-wall system with reflective gap. The new thermal bottle I.GLOO was studied in the minimal details in the Raceone's labs, in order to grant a high insulation efficiency, ergonomics and hygiene.
Podium® Chill Insulated Bottle, Camelbak
We love the Camelbak double-walled bottle for keeping your water temperature regulated. This bottle has an easy squeeze function so you can get the hydration you need quickly.
Now you’ve got the cycling gear, it’s time to upgrade your bike. Browse our bike collection now and discover our range of adventure and hybrid options.
