When To Wear What

The type of clothing you wear will largely be determined by which season it is. During the warmer months, a jersey and shorts will normally suffice. Some riders prefer to use a sleeveless jersey in very hot conditions, although the effects of the sun on normally unexposed skin should be noted. UV arm protectors are available for people who are concerned about this aspect of riding. They are lightweight and block harmful rays without being too warm. David Millar wore them at last year’s Tour de France. Despite the higher temperatures, lighter undershirts should still be worn to aid in cooling (see related section).

During autumn and early spring riders should consider items that can be added to jersey and shorts and removed if necessary. Arm and knee warmers, lightweight vests and oversocks are normally the order of the day for each ride. All of these can be carried easily should they need to be removed. Often photos from Classic races in the northern autumn and spring depict professional riders with arm warmers around their wrists as they began the race with them on and were forced to pull them down as the action – and their bodies – heated up.

During winter it’s time for calf-length Roubaix shorts, wind-stopping jackets and vests and heavier shoe covers to protect the feet. Depending on the conditions, a heavier or lighter weight of base layer can be worn, and if it’s raining, a protective shell can be added to prevent clothes becoming overly wet and subsequently cold. A skull cap can be worn under a helmet to protect ears and scalp from the cold, as much of our body heat is lost through the head.