Clothing Essentials advice/help

[Stevec047]

So I have been riding know since October I have the basics such as a couple of pairs of padded shorts, a pair of padded tights, short sleeve jersey, snood, winter gloves (which with the current climate have been made almost redundant other than when it has been raining) and I also have a nylon ripstop jacket which I wear over the jersey (it's windproof and waterproof but not specifically designed for cycling)

My question is as follows I can't stand wearing base layers as due to my size and broad shoulders I find them very restrictive and when I go up to an xxl they are two baggy in the lower arms and base I also find my current jacket makes me very hot so was wondering what the best compromise would be? I don't want to spend loads of money say upto £50 max but would like something long sleeved that I can still wear the jersey under, wind proof and showerproof whilst allowing for some warmth.

Please help a newbie thanks. Oh and sorry for the long post just thought it better you know the issue and what I have to make an informed response.

 

[Crandoggler]

Unless you want to spend a lot on goretex, I'd imagine that the layering system you're already employing will be the best plan.

I'm a large bloke and prefer all my under layers to be skin tight. My string vest thing is from decathlon, it cost about £3. It's very tight, but not restrictive. Next up I wear a long sleeve jersey. These usually have a kind of fleecey lining and if things get wet, I put a jacket on over the top. I've worn this setup in 4-10 degrees and the jacket is definitely a boil in the bag setup like you're experiencing. I usually undo it on hills to vent and zip it back up on the straights and downhills.

 

[Dayvo]

I use one of these (in white) for warmth and comfort, when a tight-fitting merino base layer might be too warm.

 

[13 rider]

Check out if Aldi have again winter soft shells left . Bought one last winter very toastie semi waterproof .Its that warm I only worn it once this winter .
Basically layers even a summer Tee shirt as a base layer . I try not to wear a rain jacket unless you spend a bit there all a bit boil in the bag .Me its base layer Jersey and packable rain Mac in pocket in case it rains below 3 degrees base layer formentioned winter jacket .

Gillet is another way of adding a layer with too much bulk .I got one out of Halfords clearance bin for a £5 just enough to take the wind off you

 

[Apollonius]

I am a similar build to you by the sound of it and find similar "boil-in-the-bag" problems. The best thing I have found -and it is so versatile i use it all year round - is the Altura Vapour jacket. I am 44 chest and need the XXL. I paid £120 for mine (and worth every penny) but I am sure I saw them half-price in Wiggle's sale recently. They even roll up small enough to go in a jersey pocket on warmer days. A bit more than you want to spend, but answers all the questions. I wore mine out yesterday in about 12 degrees with just a jersey and bibs underneath.

 

[cyberknight]

In the past i have used a ss jersey underneath a LS jersey as a base layer .

 

[mjr]

If the issue is too hot, remove a layer and put it in a saddlebag in case it gets colder again?

 

[vickster]

I use a loose fit LS Nike running top as a base layer. Cost about £20. Or if it's cooler a Rohan Merino

 

[mjr]

Oh and as for essentials or basics, I think the only thing I wear from your list is the winter gloves! There's more than one way to do it!

 

[Stevec047]

Thanks for all your comments. I think I will take a look at a couple of base layer options and a new all weather soft shell jacket at least that way I am covered for all the British weather can chuck at me alongside the basic waterproof jacket I have.

 

[steveindenmark]

The Aldi Winter soft Shell and a Polar Buff are always on my list for keeping warm in Winter.

 

[cyberknight]

Im using the SS version of these atm
https://www.decathlon.co.uk/300-longsleeve-cycling-baselayer-black-id_8217439.html

 

[potsy]

If the weather is dry I would wear a gilet instead of the jacket, preferably one with mesh panels for breathability.
If it's wet then you are going to either get soaked from the rain, or soaked from sweat whilst wearing your rain jacket.

 

[Apollonius]

I have given up with soft-shells as they are simply not breathable enough. OK, I am a sweaty type, but I got so wet - especially the arms - wearing soft-shell.

 

[DRM]

Have a look at Tenn outdoors, they do quality gear very reasonably priced, with quick delivery too.