Commuting

Commuter Clothing Guide: Cycling from Winter to Spring

Top clothing tips for comfortable cycling through the seasonal transition

Hooray for those longer days that seem to be drawing out the evenings, and with the clocks-changing at the end of the month, we’re nothing but excited to cycle in the daylight, and in fairer weather.

To ensure a comfortable and pleasant ride, it’s important to match your clothing to the weather. This way you’re neither too hot, cold or wet on your daily commute, or town cycle. However, this is a lot easier said than done when the British weather can change faster than you can wink an eye.

To see you out of the winter humdrum, and into fresh spring offerings, we’ve popped together some essential kit tips to make your seasonal transition seamless.

Ear Warmers

It’s getting too warm for full on thermal cycling caps, so rather than covering your whole head, ear warmers are a perfect way to combat the morning chill.

More headbands and neck-warmers here

Not only will they keep you toasty, ear warmers act as a sweatband, helping reduce forehead spots caused by sweat and friction with your helmet, as you can wash it post ride. They are relatively cheap, but a highly effective way of keeping cool on top, without the ear-ache after.

Glasses

The British weather has been known to give us all four seasons in one day, so it’s sometimes difficult to know what glasses, and what lenses to opt for. Do you wear dark lenses, hoping that the sun will shine, or light glasses to shield your eyes from wind and dirt?

Here are some more cycling glasses

If in doubt, we recommend you opt for light or clear lenses. Even when the sun isn’t shining it’s always best to protect your sight from flying debris. Many cycling glasses on the market now come with clear, light and dark lenses, you’re spoilt for choice. Chuck in the transition lenses option, and you’re laughing.

Base Layers

Even in the relative warmth of the British summer, we can’t stress the importance of base layers. They help transfer moisture away from the body and keep the wind at bay, stopping you from getting a nasty chill.

More base layer options here

The great thing about base-layers is that you can buy some which look like regular t-shirts and tops. This way you can either stay in them on/off the bike, or you can easily swap out and into your work attire. At this time of year, choose a short-sleeved base layer as opposed to the long-sleeved options, as these may be a tad too warm for spring.

Gilets and Waterproof Jackets

A vital layer that can make or break the comfort of your ride, is the outer layer. Gilets and waterproof jackets are perfect for this time of year. A gilet is a versatile sleeveless top that fits snug over you to keep the wind-chill off your front, or opt for a full jacket to fend off spring showers.

Best selling waterproof jackets for commuters

Most gilets and jackets are easily packable, made of lightweight material and are often both windproof and waterproof. They are ideal for stashing away in the side-pocket of your backpack or panniers.

Arm Warmers

These are the ultimate weapon for changeable weather. More often then not, setting off on a chilly morning has your body feeling a little slow to warm up, but when it does, you’re good to pedal like the wind. To help get off to a great start, pop on some arm warmers until your warm enough to roll them down, and take them off.

A selection of our favourite arm and leg warmers

There are a variety of fabrics out there which boast varying useful properties: thermal, windproof, compression and even just cosy knitted wool for warmth and fashion. Be sure to have a look at what would compliment your riding best. You can also get some funky leg warmers for when it’s time to bust out the spring dresses!

Gloves

It’s probably time to ditch the lobster mitts, but with the wind still able to pack a punch, don’t rush straight for fingerless gloves just yet.

It’s often wise to layer gloves at this time of the year. Have a thin full-fingered glove under a windproof top layer. This means as you’re warming up, you will have the warmth of two layers, but when you’re above the chilly morning start, you can remove a layer and regulate your temperature with ease.

Commute around the town in comfort and style as you ride out the seasonal transition period this year.