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Fall can be a fickle time to dress for bike rides. Chilly morning temps can give way to balmy warm sun by midday. Long climbs heat up quickly but long descents can make you feel a little frozen.
As the saying goes: there’s no bad weather, only bad gear. And when it comes to shoulder season riding, a little attention to layers goes a long way. Here are a few of our favorite cool weather apparel additions right through until the snow flies.
Shoe Covers and Toe Caps
While winter riding shoes are the most effective way to keep feet and ankles warm in sub-zero temps, booties and toe caps generally get the job done above 45 degrees. Booties are typically made of neoprene material that blocks wind, cold and moisture–essential for when cool temps drop the wind chill.
Our favorites
Arm Warmers & Leg Warmers
When it’s too chilly for a short sleeve jersey but warm temps are forecast later in a ride, arm warmers are the perfect compromise. Typically made with soft thermal lining and warms skin but also blocks wind, arm warmers can keep you comfortable through as much as 20 degree swings on long climbs and descents. Even better: they easily roll up and pack into a jersey pocket.
Knee warmers and leg warmers work similarly. They protect the knee joints and shins from cooling windchills but are easy to pull off as the temperature rises. Combine arm warmers, leg warmers and toe things in one ride and you will be amazed at how warm you can be while still wearing a summer weight short sleeve jersey and bib.
Our favorites
Vest
Vests block wind to keep your core warm but are more packable and less committing than a full jacket. A vest can turn an early morning chill into something more manageable. They also easily stow in a jersey pocket for ultimate versatility.
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Gloves
Let’s not forget your hands, which are often the first body part to break the wind. Adding a lightly insulated glove to your wardrobe can go a long way toward keeping your hands comfy, and able to use the shifters and brakes.
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Cooling temps don’t need to mean fewer rides. With a little attention to layering, you can ride comfortably all fall long.