Hi there guys and gals!

I would really appreciate your help in teaching me the basics of autumn/winter dressing.

I commute to work and am hoping to continue doing so as much as possible.

Problem: I have no idea whatsoever as to what one should wear to stay comfortable but not sweaty. For example: if I buy a merino base layer and just wear that with a shell, will I be ok or still too hot?

Please could you advise??

Thank you!
Sue.

Layering is definitely the key - but our weather varies so much - its impossible to answer this question.

If I went fast I would generate much more heat than pootling along - so I can't tell you what you need to wear.

Good stuff to have is :

Longs
Shorts
Leg Warmers
Arm Warmers
LS base tee
SS base tee
LS jersey
SS jersey
Buff/Hedy for neck/face/under helmet
gloves
Windproof jacket
Light rainjacket
Gilet

Covers all possibilities I guess.

Do you shower at work ?

Hi Sue,
It really depends on how far you're cycling. If you're going for over 30 mins say, getting something with wicking as a base layer is the key to staying dry. I'm not the flashest looking cyclist out there, but I tend to find that while it's not yet too cold (or wet) a long-sleeved thermal is all you need over the top to stay warm without overheating...

as a rule of thumb, put your gear on and stand outside. You should be just a little cool. Once you get going your body will warm up anway.

I'd say you had it about right Sue, base layer and shell covers most the weather throws at you.
Then the more you do you will probably work your way through Cougie's list

For commuting in winter I use a base layer with a garish, cheap, but very visible Altura jacket on top. Safety over style at times.

Agree with the rest of pack layers is the key. If your commuting regular you will know when it's time to add another layer or infact as winter recinds loose a layer.

Another thing to add is use a lower gear over the winter months and practice spinning it keeps you at a more even temperature and helps with base fitness

right now, a base and shell will be adequate. if you haven't got much of a cycling wardrobe, just gradually purchase items as and when you need them, for example as it gets colder you might want to get some tights and a hat.

our sister site has done a few articles you might find relevant. base layers, and plenty more gear tests here

we're actually in the process of writing a 'Preparing for the winter' article, so watch out for that

The most I ever wear when I'm commuting (in London) is a short sleeve jersey, arm warmers, a gilet, 3/4 length bib shorts and little neoprene booties that cover the toes of my shoes (Adidas make them).

I've never suffered from being too cold (once I get going), but I can't remember the temperature dropping much below zero in London over the last 3 or 4 years. If I was somewhere colder I'd probably wear another layer.

As soon as the weather starts getting cooler, before anything else I reach for my hat - a thin merino wool beanie to be exact. It's lightweight and comfortable even when wet and I find a hat the least hassle to put on/take off.

Plus it's not a cycling specific piece of kit, so you're not restricted to just black or neon yellow :)

Hey everyone,

Thanks a million for your advice!! it's soo helpful!!

OK, I think I've decided....I am going to get a merino l/s base layer, the Ice Queen fleece from Ground Effect and the She Shell from Ground Effect too. That way I can use the base layer and shell on wet autumn days, the base layer and fleece and dry autumn days and all three during winter (I'm South African so I can't see that I'll complain about being too warm :-) and hopefully the base layer will deal with any excess sweat)

I do have the Altura jacket at the moment but I know from last winter and this morning (boy, how soft am I???!!) my neck gets really cold so therefore the she shell as a replacement - it has a detachable hood that can fit under your helmet.

What ya think???

Thanks again for your help!!!!!!