Wet Weather Clothing Buying Guide
Our Picks of Waterproof Jackets
We have selected the very best jackets designed to keep you dry whatever the weather. These ranges contain specific elements to keep you riding with market-leading performance.
1. First up is the award-winning Gore Gore-Tex range which features Shakedry technology, a new pinnacle in fabric development. With a permanent beading surface, the water cannot infiltrate beyond the surface.
2. Next is the new Altura Nightvision range, with built in reflective accents to ensure you stay both waterproof and visible.
3. Our final offering comes in-house from FWE where you can expect the same great value with reflective details, bright and exciting colours. View the ranges in detail below:
Jackets
Getting caught in a downpour can leave you shivering in minutes on all but the very hottest of summer days, so a jacket is an essential piece of kit for every year-round UK cyclist. Windproof cycling jackets and waterproof cycling jackets are designed to give you protection from the elements, while the modern fabrics help you avoid that sticky boil-in-the-bag feeling.
Jerseys and Softshells
Long-sleeved jerseys are great for when the weather turns chilly (or to protect your forearms from single-track snags or road rash). Short-sleeved jerseys really come into their own when the heat is on, while soft outer shells mean you don’t have to stop when the wind starts.
Soft Shell Jackets are an excellent mid-weight option for cooler Spring and Autumn days in the saddle, or on showery days. More windproof and water resistant than a fleece or jersey, but more breathable, softer and more flexible than a full waterproof, soft shells are the best choice on uncertain days.
Men's or women's, short sleeve or long sleeve, there is plenty of choice. We carry soft shell jackets from all the top brands including Castelli, Endura and Gore Bike Wear.
Caps and Hats
Slipping on a hat is a good way of keeping the elements in check. During colder conditions, your main aim is to keep warm – putting on an under-helmet hat, which is designed to fit comfortably under you lid, will keep both your ears and scalp warm & dry.
Gloves
Whether you’re hitting the trails or the urban jungle, cycling gloves and mitts are a must. Not only do gloves insulate you against the elements, they’ll also protect your hands should you come a cropper. Cycling gloves often use the same technology seen in motorbike and skiing gloves, with varying layers depending on how much protection you require.
Our cycling winter gloves will keep your digits toasty, while windproof gloves help guard against the unpredictable British weather.
Legwear
Protect your legs from the elements by kitting yourself out with a pair of tights or trousers from bestselling brands such as Endura and Gore Bike Wear. Keep yourself warm and dry while still allowing your skin to breathe – great for when the chilly weather rolls in – with a range of different fabrics from lightweight to extra-warm.
Overshoes
Keep your toes toasty and dry when it’s freezing outside with a pair of overshoes. The more expensive waterproof overshoes are made with neoprene so they’re hard wearing and durable enough to keep going for as long as you want. Others are more like socks and are designed to be wind and shower-proof.
Socks
They’re not the most glamorous garment, but socks are an essential part of every serious rider’s wardrobe as they can make a big difference to your ride comfort. Designed with a closer fit to stop your shoes from rubbing, cycling socks are made with special fabrics that help keep sweat away from the skin, leaving feet feeling dry. For the commuter, our winter cycling socks made out of fabrics like merino wool, will really ramp up the comfort levels, no matter what the weather. Shop here for bestsellers such as Defeet, SealSkinz and Castelli.