Knowing how to dress before going out to shoot in winter is an art. There are those who leave home wrapped up as if the route were to the North Pole. Others, braver, go out with the same jersey they wear in the summer, a windbreaker or some arm warmers to cover their arms and little else. If you also doubt what clothing to wear when riding a bicycle, this article interests you.

BEST ADVICE: DRESS IN LAYERS

Dressing in layers is the best way to deal with the cold and sudden changes in temperature. This strategy will not only keep your body warm, but it will allow you to regulate your body temperature at all times. For this, it is very important to wear clothing that not only keeps you warm, but also insulates and is also breathable. Sweat is one of the most unpleasant problems that we can encounter during our winter outings, since we can get cold if too much moisture concentrates near the skin. If our clothing is breathable, it will allow sweat to evaporate to the outside.

BASE LAYER

To dress in layers, our recommendation is that, as a base layer, you always use a thermal t-shirt. This can be short sleeve or long sleeve. Make sure the fabric is warm, but breathable and absorbent. This layer will repel sweat, keeping your skin dry. This way you will avoid getting cold when stopping or exposing yourself to gusts of wind.

MIDDLE LAYER

This layer is meant to retain your body heat. This way you will avoid losing temperature. If you're wearing a long-sleeved thermal top as a base layer, you can pair it with your regular jersey. If you prefer to wear a short-sleeved thermal, you can always combine it with a winter jersey, if you have one. Or with some sleeves. The ideal is to always use light and, again, breathable materials. This way we avoid overheating during times of more intense activity. In any case, it will depend on your activity and, above all, your tolerance to cold.

OUTER LAYER

It should protect you from the cold, but above all from the wind and outside humidity. A windproof jacket or a light raincoat are good options to face these conditions. Also make sure they have reflective elements. This will improve your visibility in low light conditions.

In any case, there are no absolute rules for your winter cycling clothing. Firstly, because not all places have the same cold and humid conditions. Secondly, because not all of us tolerate low temperatures in the same way, nor do we practice the same modalities. That is to say, an intense MTB route, with large slopes, is not the same as a long road trip, pedaling at high speeds. However, in any of these options, dressing in layers is always a recommended idea to stay warm and dry. Of course, always remember that the layers you use are breathable so that they are able to evaporate moisture from the inside.

AND FOR THE BOTTOM PART?

Well, the same thing happens. Not all of us go outings under the same conditions nor do we have the same resistance to the cold. That said, if we live in an area with low temperatures and we usually go out several days a week, a good long winter jersey may be in order. If we live in a warmer area, where we are going to encounter few very cold days, it is probably worth using quality leg warmers. In addition, if necessary, we can complement them with knee warmers, being a more economical option. Of course, take the material into account because if you use, for example, cotton, the sweat will not evaporate. 

Another option is to wear long tights under the shorts, in the same way that long-sleeved thermals are worn under the jersey. The main advantage is that we will not have to buy long bib shorts. However, one drawback to putting another layer under the shorts is that chafing may appear due to the seams. 

Whatever you choose, always look for it to have a high degree of elasticity, so that it adjusts well to our movements without causing friction or uncomfortable bends. But, above all, look for them to be thermal and breathable, so that they retain heat and eliminate sweat. 

OTHER CLOTHING TIPS TO PROTECT YOU FROM THE COLD

If you have cold feet, hands and ears, it will be difficult for you to warm up during the entire route, with the problems that this can cause. Therefore, our advice is:

• Always choose winter-specific socks. These are usually thicker and some are even waterproof. Its function, in this case, is twofold: to keep us warm and dry.
• There are also specific MTB boots for the cold, but if you don't think you are going to use them too much due to the climate in your area, you can go with a boot cover and the footwear you usually use for cycling. 
• Use the indicated gloves. If you go out on short routes or in areas that are not excessively cold, basic thin gloves may be more than enough, although it is important that the material is breathable. If you do longer routes or if the thermometer in your area is between 4-5 degrees, it is advisable to use thicker gloves and, of course, specific ones for cycling, since we must guarantee good control with the levers, to be able to brake. insurance. 
• Neck gaiters, balaclavas, helmets, etc. The function will always be the same, to protect you from the cold, water and wind. Remember that the fabric is always breathable. 

As we all know, cold, rain and wind are not very friendly to cyclists, but by following these tips and adapting them to your specific needs, you will be able to enjoy your routes comfortably and safely. And remember, it's always preferable to feel a little cool at first to avoid overheating once we're moving.

And since you have your body protected from the cold, also remember to protect your bike , especially from untimely punctures. With Tannus , this is possible. Visit our products !