Temperatures are dropping, days are getting shorter… but the cold is no reason to stop riding!
Whether you're heading out for a gravel ride, a road training session, or your daily bike commute, all you need is the right clothing.
The secret? Stay warm without overheating. Because when you're cycling, getting too hot and sweating can quickly become uncomfortable as soon as you slow down.
Here are our tips for enjoying your rides all winter long.
1. THE THREE-LAYER RULE
Rather than one thick garment, opt for several layers that you can adapt to the weather and the intensity of your effort.
First layer: wick away sweat
A breathable, close-fitting technical base layer helps wick away moisture. Merino wool is also a good option.
Avoid cotton: it traps sweat and can leave you feeling cold once damp.
Second layer: retain heat
A long-sleeved jersey or a lightweight thermal jacket helps maintain a comfortable temperature.
Its thickness depends on the weather, but also on your pace: the harder you pedal, the more heat your body produces.
Third layer: protect against wind and rain
A windproof or waterproof and breathable jacket protects you from the elements.
In dry weather, a simple windbreaker may be enough. If it's raining, opt for waterproof protection with good ventilation.
2. PROTECT YOUR EXTREMITIES
In winter, your hands, feet, and ears are often the most affected by the cold.
A few accessories make a real difference:
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Winter gloves to keep your hands warm without losing precision on the brakes.
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Technical socks to limit moisture.
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Shoe covers to protect your feet from the wind and water spray.
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A thin helmet liner or headband to protect your ears.
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A neck warmer that's easy to adjust during your ride.
Be careful not to tighten your shoes too much with thick socks: poor circulation can increase the sensation of cold.
3. HOW TO DRESS YOUR LEGS?
For sporty rides, a long thermal cycling bib is often ideal. It retains heat while offering excellent freedom of movement.
For urban commutes, bike-specific trousers, possibly paired with a thermal base layer, may be more practical.
In case of rain, waterproof over-trousers can also be useful.
4. DON'T DRESS TOO WARM!
This is one of the most common mistakes in winter.
When you start pedaling, your body warms up quickly. If you're already perfectly warm before you set off, you risk sweating excessively after a few minutes.
Our advice: for a sporty ride, feeling slightly cool at the start is often normal. You should warm up gradually as you pedal.
The goal is not to sweat as little as possible, but to prevent moisture from getting trapped in your clothing.
5. ADAPT YOUR OUTFIT TO THE TEMPERATURE
Here are some guidelines for a moderate-intensity bike ride:
| Temperature | Recommended outfit |
|---|---|
| 10 to 15 °C | Long-sleeved jersey, lightweight windbreaker, thin gloves |
| 5 to 10 °C | Technical base layer, thermal jacket or windbreaker, long cycling bib, gloves |
| 0 to 5 °C | Warm base layer, windproof jacket, thermal cycling bib, winter gloves, shoe covers |
| Below 0 °C | Enhanced thermal protection, extremities well covered, and watch out for black ice |
These guidelines remain approximate: wind, humidity, the duration of the ride, and your sensitivity to the cold all change your needs significantly.
6. THINK ABOUT EASY-TO-REMOVE CLOTHING
In winter, the weather and your body temperature can change quickly.
A windproof vest, arm warmers, or a compact jacket are particularly practical for adapting your outfit during the ride.
During a break, also remember to put back on a warm layer: the body cools down quickly when you stop pedaling.
7. WHAT ABOUT VISIBILITY?
In winter, days are short and visibility can be low even in the middle of the day.
Opt for clothing with reflective elements and make sure your lights are working properly.
Being well dressed also means staying visible on the road!
KEEP RIDING ALL WINTER LONG WITH ROUTES&ROADS
Cycling doesn't stop when the cold arrives. With the right clothing, winter rides can be just as enjoyable as spring rides.
Need advice on choosing a jacket, gloves, thermal cycling bib, or accessories for your upcoming rides?
Come visit us at Routes&Roads: we'll help you find an outfit suited to your riding and the weather.
📍 Routes&Roads — 14 Place de Rungis, 75013 Paris
The cold is no excuse to stop pedaling. All you need is to dress properly! ❄️🚴
