Warmer gear needed (jacket & tights)

[Reynard]

After this evening's 12 mile ride in a very brisk east anglian breeze, I've come to the conclusion that my current kit really isn't warm enough now that the weather has taken a turn for the distinctly autumnal. I'm wearing bog standard running long sleeve base layer and leggings under a waterproof cycling jacket and shorts and returned home feeling somewhat chilled.

I've had a brief gander and the Decathlon 500 series jacket & tights seem to fit the bill (and the budget), but does anyone have any experience / thoughts about this or similar alternatives?

 

[ianrauk]

The best jacket I have ever owned in the warmth and waterproof stakes is the NIghtvision Evo. Nothing has come close for the price.

 

[NorthernDave]

The 500's are good, the 700 Membranes are even better as they're wind proof and although not advertised as waterproof they do a good job of keeping the rain out if you're caught in a shower, or on wet roads.
Personally, I've found anything in the 500 range or above at Decathlon is decent stuff at the price.

Planet X also have some good stuff and a range of constantly changing offers which can give some real bargains, but the sizing can be a bit odd.

 

[fossyant]

The Decathlon stuff is fine. You might also want to look at the Aldi softshell jackets - these have windproof fronts and are good for the money. My Altura Varium top is great as that adds in shower resistance.

 

[Reynard]

Mmmm, my current shorts and jacket are Aldi, and they aren't bad for the price. I'll be passing by a Decathlon next week anyway, so will drop in to have a gander - and hopefully find warm stuff that fits. It's a pain buying fitness clothing when you're a short and curvy lady - ladies' lycra seems to be made for elongated stick insects...
Have only just begun to thaw out...

 

[MichaelW2]

Have you tried wearing a fleece jersey as a midlayer? Once you have the base and shell sorted almost anything works as midlayer insulation. Is your shell breathable enough? Gloves and a neck tube add a lot of temp control for little bulk or weight.

 

[Plumster]

I have one of these
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/FDX-Mens-...hash=item2808e114d1:m:m1XgHe8OsGCNjh4FAjUCb9g
toastie!

 

[vickster]

Layers. Can wear running tights over your shorts, Roubaix ones for cold weather, or altura winter cruisers

Plus one on the altura nightvision jacket

If you need a further layer for your trunk, these are really good, if you happen to be a size 8

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ALTURA-WOMENS-SYNERGY-GILET-BLACK-8-SRP-39-99-/222285576684

The seller has other great deals on altura in some sizes

 

[dim]

I use the construction jackets from Sports Direct:

http://www.sportsdirect.com/dunlop-hi-vis-bomber-jacket-mens-634001?colcode=63400112

costs £19 .... is very warm, waterproof, hi-viz, and has loads of pockets

the waterproof matching pants are also cheap

 

[vickster]

I believe the OP is a lady and around 4'11. Do you really think that's the best option? As it's a seriously ugly garment ok for rail workers perhaps

 

[dim]

I believe the OP is a lady and around 4'11. Do you really think that's the best option?

yep .... they come in all sizes

 

[vickster]

Edited its fugly as hell!

 

[T4tomo]

Edited its fugly as hell!

And probably not very breathable hence as sweaty as it is fugly.

As above layers are key. My skiing base layers get used a lot for winter cycling, warm and wicking. Roubaix tights over bib shorts, gives a couple of layers to keep the gentleman vegetable area warm (may or may not be such an issue for women). When I gets really cold I have a foska soft shell/ winter jacket which whilst not fully waterproof is as good as anything as it's wind proof and keeps you warm.

Shoes covers to keep the toes warm and decent gloves and a cap or buff etc under the lid

 

[Elybazza61]

Might be worth looking at Wiggles DHB range;better half has one of the long sleeve jerseys and some merino socks and she says they are really cosy,they fit and look good too.

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/womens-1/cycle/clothing/?ea=4294789716

 

[CanucksTraveller]

I've got the B'Twin / Decathlon 700 warm jacket and lined Roubaix tights, I don't think either are quite waterproof but they do shrug off showers and they're certainly windproof and warm. The whole lot cost me £65, and they look good and fit well.

https://www.decathlon.co.uk/700-warm-cycling-jacket-black-blue-id_8369415.html