Every spring I start going outside and I forget, “what do I wear today?” So after years and years of trying to remember, I recorded these layers over the past year and made some tweaks. It is so easy to overdress and be miserable. These are geared towards racing, so if training long, maybe consider going one range colder. That way, at lower intensity you can stay warm. As always, experiment with what works best and customize. Layers below work best when using Verge clothing. They make great stuff using modern patterns. There are two exceptions noted below for very specific garments. But buy Verge whenever you can!!
Above 65: dry or wet: short sleeves and shorts, base layer. Maybe a vest and arm warmers in the pocket if rain gets cold on descents
55-65: Dry: shorts, SS jersey, base layer and arm warmers, vest in the pocket maybe if you are feeling chilly.
55-65: Wet: same as above but add light leg warmers if chilly.
47-55: Dry: jersey, shorts, base layer, arm and leg warmers, vest, maybe oversocks/shoe covers
47-55: wet: leg warmers, shorts, long sleeve jersey with long sleeve base layer underneath. Vest or jacket
40-47: Dry: leg warmers, shorts, long sleeve jersey with long sleeve base layer underneath. Vest or jacket, booties/shoe covers, maybe buff/gaiter
40-47: wet: arm and leg warmers, long sleeve base layer, LS jersey, jacket, long gloves, thick booties, buff/gaiter
Sub 40 or Rasputitsa: Gabba Jersey LS baselayer, shorts with base layer underneath*, leg warmers, booties, long gloves, buff/gaiter
*Many years ago, I bought a few pairs of baselayer shorts that were sewn inside out so the seams weren’t against the skin. They were made by Andiamo, and they provide just a little more insulation without bulk.
Never put on a fleece as an outer layer, as it provides no insulation unless in still air. Still air = no forward motion! This is actually part of old Polartec marketing. “Provides best insulation relative to bulk in still air” or something like that. In most cases, it would just absorb moisture and make you colder.
Make things modular if on the bubble. Allow for stuff to be removed if it gets too warm. That’s why leg warmers vs tights are key. Vests that can tuck into a pocket if required. Look at the weather, especially if you are out for 4 hours starting at dawn. Temps can change, and the new weather tools can really help identify how things may change. This is where armwarmers and vests are key. Manage pockets thinking of this.
Most of all, enjoy. Conquering the weather makes you feel alive.
Most of all, enjoy. Conquering the weather makes you feel alive.
