Road cycling in autumn and winter: How clothing protects you from the wind and rain

Why the wind in your face cools you down so much when cycling

Even when there is no wind, cycling creates a headwind. This carries away the warm layer of air around your body and clothing more quickly. At an air temperature of 5 °C, the wind chill temperature at 25 km/h is, theoretically, only around 0.5 °C. At 45 km/h, it is around minus 1 °C. This is particularly noticeable on long descents, in open countryside and when riding into a headwind.

For weather-resistant jerseys, this means that windproof panels should be positioned primarily on the chest, shoulders and the front of the arms. The back, on the other hand, can be designed to be more breathable so that sweat can escape during high-intensity exercise. A completely windproof base layer, on the other hand, can trap moisture during intense training. The outer layer is usually the more sensible place for wind protection.

Which shift is responsible for which task?

A long-sleeved, lightly insulated cycling jersey is ideal for cool, dry days and high-intensity riding. If the temperature drops further or you’re facing longer, gentler stretches, a vest or jacket will provide extra insulation. It is not the number of layers that matters, but their function: the base layer wicks away moisture, the jersey provides insulation, and the outer layer keeps out wind and spray.

A winter jacket must also be suitable for use in a road cycling position. An extended back protects against draughts and wet weather, whilst pre-shaped sleeves prevent creases on the handlebars.

Water-repellent or waterproof?

Water-repellent does not mean waterproof. In changeable autumn weather, a water-repellent jersey or softshell is often sufficient if it’s just drizzling briefly or the road is wet. In the event of continuous rain, a waterproof outer layer is required. If your clothing gets soaked, the system loses its insulating properties, whilst the wind chill further exacerbates the loss of body heat.

It is therefore particularly important to protect your hands, feet and the front of your thighs. These areas are heavily exposed to the wind and generate very little heat themselves. Autumn accessories for road and gravel bikes, such as overshoes, gloves and a compact vest, significantly extend the temperature range in which a jersey can be worn.

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