How do I layer for all kinds of weather conditions?

Get canny with the clothing this winter

- Words: Andy Turner Photos: Andy Jones

Temperatures can fluctuate in the cooler months from the mid-teens to downright bitter. And then there’s the rain. So just what sort of clothing should we be looking to wear for these temperamental conditions?

The key basics As the temperatures drop we can add some lightweight pieces to the foundational jersey and bibshorts. Arm and legwarmers are useful given they can be stripped off and shoved in a pocket if you start cool and the ride heats up. A mesh base layer can also help maintain temperature when it gets cooler but also warmer.

Given that autumn typically comes with a healthy dose of rain, a packable waterproof or showerproof jacket is a sensible choice. We lose body heat via evaporation of water off the skin, usually sweat, but in the rain this accelerates the process, especially when travelling at speed. A long-sleeve showerproof can reduce this cooling, but breathability can be an issue. This is where a gilet can help, keeping your core warm but allowing more breathability.