WINTER CLOTHING
Remember the Norwegian maxim: there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes? If you’re to keep your riding going through the winter it’s important to keep it in mind and to get kitted out with gear that’s going to keep you warm, dry and comfortable.
Layering is the key to finding the right temperature for your body to perform at, so rather than sticking a super-thick winter jacket straight over the base layer start with a base layer, a road jersey, arm-warmers if you’ve opted for a shortsleeved jersey and a thinner windproof and waterproof jacket on top. Multiple garments also means more pockets, and it’s an advantage if the items you most want to protect against the elements, such as a phone, can be secreted in a pocket that’s not on the outer layer.
It’s good practice to wear a base layer through summer and winter, both for its sweat-wicking properties and for the insulation it provides, not to mention the protection if you fall off. Mesh base layers are better suited to warm weather; for winter a base layer can be made of anything from merino to the latest technical fabrics. Flatlocked seams or seamless designs are good for winter when the number of layers over the base increases and so does the level of potential skin irritation. A higher neck is useful for keeping out draughts.
It’s rare that a cycle clothing brand produces its own fabric — most buy them from the big textile factories. Names such as Roubaix, Windtex, Coolmax and even Lycra, originally made by Dupont in the USA, are universal. For winter a ‘Roubaix style’ fleecy-backed fabric that traps warm air against the skin or the base layer works well. Tights, leg and arm-warmers and long-sleeved thermal jerseys are generally made from this type of fabric.
Boardman’s clothing is designed with the same attention to detail as its bike range, and offers a great choice of jackets: the Pack Jacket can be stashed for unexpected downpours while the Waterproof Jacket with its taped seams and the Reflective Rain Jacket, which will ensure you’re visible in foul weather, are perfect outer layers for long, wet rides. Paired with the Thermal Jersey underneath there’s no excuse for not getting out there. The Removable Sleeve Jacket is a versatile garment that converts into a gilet for those days when the weather can’t make up its mind. More info at www.boardmanbikes.com.