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The Outsider: Avoid cool weather woes with spring cycling clothes |
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Written by Greyson Howard/Tahoe World
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Tuesday, 17 April 2007 |
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It’s not just about the bike when getting out on the roads and trails this time of year — it’s also about the clothes.
Cycling in the spring is all about changing conditions. During an average ride you can be baking in the sun grinding up that big climb, flying down the mountain blasted by cold wind, in clear weather or in all-the-sudden snow or rain. And without towing a wardrobe full of apparel, a few key layers that can fit in a jersey pocket can make or break an epic ride.
 The wind layer
Because cycling is a high-output sport, riders rarely need heavy-duty insulation. Wind is the enemy of the sweaty cyclist trying to stay warm, so wind blocking synthetic jackets and vests can be the most versatile piece in your pocket or pack.
Some garments don’t make you choose, with removable sleeves that turn jackets into vests, they cover an even broader range of conditions.
Many nylon shells are treated with DWR (Durable Water Repellent), so they’ll shed a light rain or snow as well, without being as much of a greenhouse as a full-on rain shell.
Wind shells are great to put on for that fast and windy descent, and take off or unzip on that slow push back up the hill.
Bonus tip: Make sure fit isn’t too loose or your flapping jacket will sound like a helicopter chasing you down.
 Arm warmers
Put on arm warmers with your short-sleeve jersey and presto-change-o you’ve got a long sleeve jersey.
These stretchy arm skins can be made of spandex, be fleece-lined, or even knit from wool to provide different levels of warmth.
Because your arms are doing less work than your legs when you are out riding, arm warmers give you that little bit of extra warmth.
Plus, if you bale while trying to look cool doing a track-stand at the stop light, they may save you some hard to explain road rash.
Make sure fit is tight enough to keep them from constantly sliding down your arms, but not so tight your hands turn purple.
 Knee and leg warmers
Most people think about their upper-bodies first, but keeping your knees warm in cool weather is key for healthy joints.
When the weather is too warm for full-length tights, or you need to adapt to changing temperatures, knee and leg warmers are the way to go.
Leg warmers extend from mid-thigh (overlapping your shorts) to the ankle, while knee warmers only go half-way down the calf.
Knee warmers take up less room when packed, and are warm enough for most situations.
Made out of the same materials as arm warmers, knee and leg skins should be cut with an articulated knee joint to follow your legs as they bend.
Fit should be the same as arm warmers: Not to loose, not to tight.
Bonus tip: Don’t where them outside your shorts, unless you’ve got a serious style statement to make.
Photos by Emma Garrard/Tahoe World
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 17 April 2007 )
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