Stuff
We recommend bibs in any season, but their design is
even more crucial in cold weather. Because they extend
over your belly and hips, bibs eliminate the gap between
the top of your tights and the bottom of your jacket that
allows cold air to work its way in. The Fiandre NoRain is
made of thermal fabric that traps heat better than regular
Lycra and has a cozy brushed lining to keep your legs
warm. It’s also windproof and waterproof. Ladies, if you’re
a drop-tail convert, look elsewhere; the Fiandre lacks this
pit stop–friendly feature.Don’t be fooled by how thin this jacket is—it’s much warmer
than it looks. Rated for 10°F to 40°F, this insulated jacket is
wind- and water-resistant. Testers needed only a sleeveless base
layer underneath in temps right around 40°F, and in moderate
rain, it kept us dry for at least 30 minutes. Paired with a base
layer and long-sleeve jersey, the Velocis is ideal for cold days
with showers in the forecast.BONTRAGER VELOCIS SUBZERO
SOFTSHELL CYCLING JACKET $ 220
(MEN), $ 200 (WOMEN)
BEST FOR: DAYS BELOW 40°F WITH A HEADWIND
AND A CHANCE OF RAINSPORTFUL FIANDRE NORAIN
BIB TIGHT $ 160
BEST FOR: WINDY, RAINY DAYS BETWEEN 35°F AND 45°FTHE CLOTHING
YOU NEED
TO RIDE
EVERY SINGLE
WINTER DAY
No matter which part of the country you call
home, the months of December, January, and
February typically signify winter. While the south-
ernmost states experience winter temps that
average anywhere from 45 to 60 degrees, the ones
way up north can see an average of only 10 to 25
degrees. The point is, no matter where you live,
you need apparel that can handle rapidly chang-
ing conditions and protect you from rain, snow,
wind, and anything else winter throws at you. To
help you find the best stuff, we’ve tested a ton of
cold-weather gear in almost every condition imag-
inable. Here are a few of the best options, plus a
guide to help you gauge your gear choices, so you
can ride comfortably all winter long.Trevor^ Raab92 BICYCLING.COM • ISSUE 1 | 2020