Want to ride comfortably in almost any weather?
2024 is on track to be another record-breaking year for American cyclists, with over 112 million projected to ride this year. But…
Most cyclists layer incorrectly for outdoor rides.
They dress too warm or too cool for the conditions and either shiver or overheat on their rides. This is a result of poor layering strategies, but it doesn’t have to be this way.
Layering correctly takes a little practice, but it’s not hard. Here’s what you need to know…
In this article, we cover:
- The Ultimate Base Layer Guide
- How To Create A Custom Mid-Layer Setup
- Temperature-Based Layering Recipes
- Insider Tips For Weather Changes
The Ultimate Base Layer Guide
Before you can layer properly, you have to start with the right base layer.
The importance: Your base layer makes or breaks your entire system.
If your base layer is not wicking sweat and keeping you dry, nothing else can fix it. Most people make the mistake of dressing directly against their skin, but this will almost always end in disaster.
For example, many riders wear cotton t-shirts as a base layer. Cotton is bad. Don’t do it. The data shows that the majority of people participating in recreational cycling choose merino as their fabric of choice. 47.35% of participants used merino-based apparel for the lower body. When planning out your own system, you’ll want to mimic that approach.
As always, make sure your base layer is snug against your skin. A quality sporting goods store in Murray can guide you to the best fit in your base layer, keeping you dry and comfortable.
Your base layer is your skin. Choose a quality option and you’ll be good to go.
How To Create A Custom Mid-Layer Setup
Layering doesn’t stop at the base layer. Your mid-layer is critical for temperature regulation and comfort.
Think of this layer as your insulation. The goal here is to trap warm air and keep it close to your body.
Too many cyclists make the mistake of adding more layers than needed. They think that quantity = quality, but this rarely works.
The best approach is to choose a mid-layer specifically designed for the conditions you’re riding in.
For moderate temperatures, a short-sleeve jersey will be enough. In cooler weather, you’ll need to step things up with a thermal cycling jacket or fleece.
Pro-tip: Look for mid-layers with front zips. These make temperature regulation a breeze, allowing you to vent heat quickly on climbs and retain warmth on descents.
When choosing a mid-layer, look for:
- Moisture-wicking properties to pull sweat away from the base layer
- Breathability to prevent overheating on intense efforts
- Insulation to trap warm air when necessary
- Flexibility to move with your cycling position
The best mid-layers should feel like an extension of your body, completely unnoticed when you’re riding.
Weather-Specific Layering Recipes
Different weather conditions require different layering combinations. Here are some proven strategies that actually work…
Mild Weather (60-70°F)
- Base Layer: Short-sleeve synthetic or merino wool
- Mid Layer: Lightweight cycling jersey
- Outer Layer: Light windbreaker (optional)
This combination is great for spring and fall weather when you don’t want to overheat.
Cool Weather (45-60°F)
- Base Layer: Long-sleeve merino wool or synthetic
- Mid Layer: Thermal cycling jacket or jersey
- Outer Layer: Wind-resistant vest or jacket
- Don’t forget: Arm warmers for easy temperature adjustment
Arm warmers are one of the best temperature-regulating accessories you can have.
Cold Weather (Below 45°F)
- Base Layer: Heavy-weight merino wool or thermal synthetic
- Mid Layer: Insulated cycling jacket
- Outer Layer: Waterproof/windproof shell
- Essential accessories: Thermal gloves, shoe covers, balaclava
The colder it gets, the more each layer matters. One weak link and you’re in for a very long, cold ride.
Wet Conditions
Rain requires special considerations. Your outer shell becomes the most important layer of your system.
- Waterproof jacket with good ventilation
- Water-resistant mid-layer
- Quick-dry base layer
- Bonus: Fenders to keep road spray off your layers
Rainy days are a breeze when you have the right gear.
Insider Tips For Weather Changes
One secret that most cycling layering articles will not tell you…
The weather often changes during the course of a ride. You might start at 55°F, but if the afternoon gets to 75°F, you’ll be over-heating fast.
Smart layering strategies take this into account.
The removable layer principle:
Build your kit with removable layers that can be stuffed into jersey pockets or a frame bag. Arm warmers, vests, and lightweight jackets are ideal.
Monitoring body temperature:
Pay close attention to how you feel during the first 10 minutes of a ride. If you’re comfortable to start, you’ll almost certainly overheat as you warm up. Aim to start slightly on the cool side for best results.
Focus on the extremities:
Your hands, feet, and head are the quickest parts of your body to cool down. These are often forgotten, but they’re just as important to dress appropriately.
- Hands: Carry heavy gloves and start with lighter ones.
- Feet: Wool socks and shoe covers for added warmth
- Head: Cycling cap under helmet, balaclava for extreme cold
Ventilation is key:
Look for clothing with pit zips, back vents, or mesh panels. These features allow you to dump heat quickly without removing whole layers.
Advanced Layering Strategies
Want to up your layering game?
The modular method: Build your kit around interchangeable pieces that can be mixed & matched in different combinations. This maximises the number of conditions you can ride in with the least amount of gear.
Activity-specific modifications: Tailor your layering system to the intensity of your ride. A high-intensity interval session requires different layering than a leisurely tour.
Common Layering Mistakes To Avoid
Here are the big errors that will make you miserable in a hurry…
Overdressing: Most riders start too warm and then overheat later in the ride. You should feel slightly cool for the first few minutes.
Cotton anywhere: Even a small amount of cotton in your base layer will wreck your moisture management system.
Ignoring wind: A 10 mph headwind will make 60°F feel like 45°F. Always factor wind chill into your layering decisions.
Building Your Complete Layering System
Ready to start building your own layering system?
Start with quality and build from there. You don’t need to buy everything at once – develop your system based on real-world experience.
Investment priorities (in order):
- Base layers
- Weather protection
- Mid-layers
Test layering combinations on shorter rides before committing to a full day with them. Experience is the best teacher.
Final Thoughts
Getting layering techniques dialled in is the difference between enjoying your ride and barely making it to the car.
It’s not hard to layer correctly, but it takes a little practice. With proper layering techniques, you can ride in almost any weather with maximum comfort.
Remember:
- Start with a quality, moisture-managing base layer
- Choose breathable, easily-removed mid-layers for temperature control
- Protect from the wind/weather with the right outer shell
- Don’t neglect your extremities – hands, feet, and head need covering too
Your ideal layering system is personal. Test different combinations and you’ll find your own “sweet spot.” Keep experimenting on every ride and you’ll master layering in no time.
