What to Wear for Cycling in Various Weather Conditions

Whether you’re a professional cyclist or just enjoy bike riding in the city for leisure, it’s important to consider what to wear for cycling. Depending on the weather, your day of biking can be a relaxed, warm ride or an incredibly cold, wet experience. It’s always best to be prepared for whatever nature may throw your way, professional cyclist or not. Even if you’re cycling in a busy city like New York City, dressing the part isn’t so much about fashion as it is about practicality. We’ve compiled the top recommendations of the best clothes to wear biking, whether you’re a serious hobbyist or just looking for a leisurely jaunt through the city. 

If you’re looking to dip your toe into the world of cycling, renting a bike in the city can be a great option. Why not try out a rental bike before taking the plunge and investing in your own bike? Fancy Apple offers a range of electric bike and scooter rental options, including long term rentals that can range from a few days to monthly. By using Fancy Apple, you can get a taste of cycling and learn how to dress appropriately for biking in heavy-dutytemperature ranges. Renting a bike or scooter is also a great way to get around the city without having to depend on public transport. 

Cycling Weather Clothing Guide

Ready to start biking, but don’t know how to prepare? We’ve got your covered (literally) for what to wear when you got biking in different temperature ranges. From below zero temperatures to warm summer days, cycling conditions in a busy city like New York can vary from week to week. It’s important to be prepared for any possible weather condition, rain or shine. 

Biking in 70°F Weather (21°C)

If you are taking a bike ride in temperature ranges 70 degrees and above, we recommend gearing up in a simple short-sleeve jersey and short combo. It’s easier to get dressed for riding when the temperature is warmer because less clothing is required. It’s also important to wear sunscreen for UV protection, since the sun is stronger. One important tip that many professional cyclists recommend is to never ride shirtless, no matter how hot it is. It’s always important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, and a short-sleeve jersey can provide that extra layer of protection. 

Cycling in 60°F Weather (15.5°C)

If you go for a bike ride when it’s around 60 degrees outside, many professional cyclists recommend still wearing a thin undershirt along with shorts and a long-sleeve jersey. Wearing an undershirt as an extra layer can help control your body temperature, which can be effected if you are sweating a lot. Some people might even be comfortable wearing a short-sleeve jersey, depending on their comfort level. If you go biking in this temperature range, it’s important to keep layering in mind. 

Biking in 50°F Weather (10°C)

Cycling in 50 degree weather is right on the cusp of colder temperatures. Every person is different, so it may take a few tries to figure out the what to wear cycling in this in-between temperature range. Depending on what’s best for you and your internal temperature, we recommend cycling tights, a long-sleeve jersey, and a long-sleeve undershirt. If that runs too hot, try a short-sleeve wicking undershirt instead. 

Cycling in 45°F Weather (7°C)

If you go cycling when it’s 45 degrees outside, it’s time to start layering a bit more, but don’t go overboard. Adding an extra layer like an undershirt along with a jacket is a good idea for this temperature, because you can shed layers as you warm up. Make sure to bulk up a bit with full fingered gloves and maybe even wool socks. 

Cycling in 40°F Weather (4.4°C)

Forty degrees isn’t freezing, but it’s not a temperate summer day. So, what are the best clothes to wear biking when it’s in the 40s? You want clothing and shoes that are warm, but not too heavy duty. Long-sleeved shirts are best, along with some mediumweight tights or leg warmers. Use a lined cycling jacket, but maybe avoid anything fleece lined as that would get too hot while biking. Wool socks and mediumweight gloves are best for most people to protect their hands and feet from the elements. 

It’s important to note that as it gets colder, there is a higher chance of biking or scootering in the rain. Using an electric bike or scooter in the rain is generally safe, but it’s always important to check the standard IP ratings of any electric scooter or bike you use. Rental companies such as Fancy Apple provide easy-to-use electric scooters that are rain resistant and easy to use. Even if you are just scootering down a city street, consider wearing long-sleaved shirts and mediumweight layers to stay warm and dry. 

Cycling in 35°F Weather (1.7°C)

When you start cycling in frigid temperatures, you need to start thinking in layers. Sure, you may be sweating when you’re cycling hard out there, but you need to protect your extremities from the cold temperatures to avoid injury or a medical emergency. Think heavyweight tights, shoe covers, and cycling shoes made for the winter. Many people don’t think about insulating their feet when cycling, but it is a must. Also, remember that rain can make biking in 35 degree weather feel even colder. Layer up with water resistant gloves, jackets, and shirts. 

Biking in 30°F Weather (-1°C)

If you’re intense enough to go cycling in below freezing temperatures, make sure you’re dressed in the right gear. Biking in 30 degree weather isn’t for the faint of heart. Layering appropriately can literally be the difference between life and death. Heavyweight tights are a must, along with other heavyweight layers including a jacket. We recommend wearing a lined skullcap to keep heat from escaping your head. Merino wool socks are a must, and don’t forget the charcoal toe warmers as an extra precaution.

Cycling in 20-25°F and Below (-3.9 to -6.7°C)

When you got out and cycle in temperatures below 25°F, it’s important to prepare what to wear cycling. Every body is different, so it may take a few tries to figure out what layers and combinations of clothing and cycling shoes work best for you. We recommend trying a combination of winter bib tights, a heavy wicking turtleneck for an undershirt, mittens or lobster claw gloves, and winter cycling shoes. On top of that, try to mix and match other items such as merino wool socks, fleece lined jackets, and maybe even a balaclava. Also, make sure most of your gear is water resistant to avoid melting snow and moisture affecting your ride time.  

Quick Look: Cycling Weather Clothing Guide 

The Importance of Knowing What to Wear Cycling

Planning your cycling clothing by temperature is very important. Knowing what to wear can make or break a casual biking trip or an intensive cycling marathon. If you plan to go out biking on the trails or rent bikes to ride through Central Park, planning your outfit around the weather could make or break your biking experience. If you plan to rent a bicycle with Fancy Apple, keep in mind these key takeaways:

• Plan on wearing layers, no matter the forecasted temperature. 
• UV protection is your friend if the temperature ranges from 60 degrees to over 75 degrees. 
• If it’s cold outside, be sure to bring water resistant gear and extra layers, even if you’re just going for a quick ride across town. 
• Have fun and explore a new skill! Cycling can be fun for people of all ages, and trying out a new hobby by renting an electric bike can open a whole new world!

If you prepare accordingly, biking in the city can be a worthwhile and rewarding experience. Be sure to plan your electric bike or scooter rental experience today to see just how fun cycling can be for the whole family.