It's possible to enjoy your favorite activity comfortably in any season, with the right equipment! Autumn and winter are seasons of contrasts; temperatures drop and days get shorter. Mornings are very cold, and afternoons are sometimes milder... Significant temperature variations require versatile clothing. Therefore, we have selected clothing models equipped with the latest technologies in waterproofing, breathability, insulation, and elasticity . You'll be comfortable no matter what the thermometer says!
Breathability above all
The first idea when shopping for clothes for cool temperatures is to think that the thicker the garment, the warmer you'll be. A jersey that isn't very thick therefore gives you, conversely, the impression that it shouldn't be very warm! However, to stay warm and dry, layering thin layers is the solution! The number one enemy of your comfort is your perspiration. Aerobic activities like cycling cause your body to generate a lot of heat and sweat. The primary quality of sportswear is therefore to be breathable to wick away moisture.
To achieve better air circulation and to stay dry , you should, in all seasons, wear two layers of clothing for the upper body (a base layer and a jersey or jacket). The first layer of clothing is often neglected but essential: the base layer aims to quickly wick away sweat from your body so you don't shiver on the first descent. It should therefore be worn very close to the body and be made of synthetic material because it has more advantages compared to cotton; it dries faster and does not accumulate moisture.
It's for the second layer that you will need to choose the garment according to the temperature . In early autumn, a brushed long-sleeved jersey like the Sportful Pista will be perfectly suitable. When the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius, you can count on the Castelli Transition jacket and its Gore Windstopper fabric on the front and sleeves to prevent wind contact with your damp skin, which would make you shiver.
And for the rain and wind ? Our advice is this: if you usually ride in dry conditions, don't buy completely waterproof clothing because it will cost you about $300 to benefit from Gore-Tex-type technology. However, an ultra-light or water-resistant windbreaker that folds into your back pocket is essential for your wardrobe. This type of garment weighs only a few grams and will be very useful in case of strong wind or sudden rain. Practical!
Above all, don't neglect your extremities!
To ensure you are comfortable during your rides, neoprene shoe covers like the Castelli Diluvio will be perfect. This model has the advantage of being very easy to put on and is essential for autumn and spring.
The Castelli Lightness 2 gloves are thin and stretchy enough not to hinder your gear changes and offer the necessary protection in cool weather . Finally, a head covering, beanie, or headband under your helmet will be a piece you definitely won't want to forget!
Winter Cycling
With the advent of fat bikes, there's no reason not to go out and play! As in autumn, temperatures vary a lot during winter. Base layers remain essential but will be a little thicker, like the Garneau Supra . The Craft Storm thermal jacket is ideal for winter. It is insulated, synthetic, windproof on the front but elastic and more breathable on the sides to allow good perspiration wicking. Be aware that it is perfectly normal , and sometimes recommended, to feel a little cold at the beginning of your ride. The feeling of coolness will disappear with the first effort.
If you are sensitive to cold or if the temperature drops, don't hesitate to add a shell (Hard Shell) over your jacket . The Craft Imper Shell model will create additional thermal protection , and with its 5000 mm water resistance , this shell offers the perfect compromise between waterproofing and breathability. An essential for Fatbiking , it can also be used for other activities such as ice skating, cross-country skiing, or sledding with children!
As you can see, no matter the season , wear a base layer and, depending on the temperature, add layers ! As for pants, the Castelli Meno 2 will be ideal for temperatures between 15 and 0 degrees Celsius, but below that, you could wear the Craft Ideal pants, which are windproof and have an integrated chamois. Add the Craft Storm shorts over them, which, in addition to style, will provide the extra warmth you need for your thighs. For Fatbiking , there's an interesting option to keep your hands warm: handlebar mitts . In addition to protecting your hands from wind and cold, they allow you to wear thinner gloves and maintain better control of the handlebars .
Forget shoes and shoe covers when Fatbiking
What you need are insulated and water-resistant boots . They are rigid enough for efficient pedaling and will keep your feet warm. For us, the choice is simple: Specialized Defroster boots are lighter than most models dedicated to Fatbiking and are compatible with SPD clipless pedals. They can accompany you in spring, autumn, and on milder winter days. With the popularization of Fatbiking, there are now dedicated and specialized brands such as Blivet (a Quebec brand). Blivet offers an ideal pair of boots (the Quilo ), which are light and well-insulated. They are also compatible with SPD clipless pedals. Finally, if you're looking for the warmest option , it's undoubtedly the 45NRTH boots with their aerogel sole , which will be your best allies this winter!
Unlike summer, the helmet will be completely closed, like Blivet's Koll , which prevents air from rushing under the helmet . Additionally, its interchangeable visor will allow you to ride comfortably in all weather conditions.
Did you know?
In your daily life, you can also use your cycling jacket to play outside with the kids, go ice skating, or grocery shopping! Optimize your purchase ! Unlike down, which loses all its thermal properties when wet (rain and/or sweat), the synthetic fabric of technical clothing retains much of its properties even when wet and offers better moisture wicking!
Warm on the Trails
The Fox brand presents a collection of clothing with original designs that offers protection and comfort for autumn . For the upper body, wear the Ranger jersey to wick away perspiration , and the Craft Ideal jacket, which is wind and water resistant . Undoubtedly, our favorite of the season is the 2-in-1 Defend pants, a marvel of look and innovation. They feature a thermal base layer that will keep you warm while their shell will keep you perfectly dry. Finally, the integrated pad will allow you to ride for a long time in maximum comfort. These hybrid pants will be ideal in autumn but can also accompany you on your Fatbike rides with style! Also in the Defend range, the Firepant is a model adapted for autumn and spring. It does not have an integrated pad, but its cut is perfect for not hindering pedaling. The brushed fleece lining will provide the warmth you're looking for! Reinforcements at the knees and seat will offer abrasion resistance. In short, a "must-have" for mountain bikers.
No matter the season, at Bicycles Quilicot you will find outfits to practice your favorite activities comfortably all year round . For more details, shop online or visit us at one of our 5 stores.