Thorn Cycles Forum
Community => Non-Thorn Related => Topic started by: ourclarioncall on April 13, 2021, 04:37:21 pm
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Not sure what category to put this in but maybe I will share a little and you will get the drift
I guess my main thoughts are dealing with sweat and potential saddle sores . Stuff like that . And also good gear for rain or bad weather . Well basically and clothing related info
What has your touring journey looked like as you’ve matured and got more miles under the belt ?
I overcame or am overcoming I’ve had by buying a new brooks saddle and also I changed my style of underwear. Sorry to get graphic ! But I learned these are common problems
I commuted to work about 15 miles there and had to deal with sweat build up on my back coz of a backpack and I think jeans or cycling trousers. My seat was a bit wide and it was causing or partly causing my underwear to ride up and rub, also that area was very sweaty . So I had to take fresh T-shirt , underwear and socks to work to change once I got there.
The brooks saddle helped a lot and I tried buying underwear that is much more minimal with little material to ride up the legs and rub.
I was getting really discouraged for a while as it was getting painful and irritable
I read up on seat height and adjustments and how this can effect things so experimented with that.
Around this time I bought a couple pairs of those cycling shorts with the pads. Can’t say I felt comfortable in them or enjoyed the 5 minute battle of trying to get them on my overweight body !
The thought of having to wash them after every ride was a bit daunting as I would have to buy multiple pairs and they not small quick and easy to wash like cotton underwear
I hear cotton is not a great material anyway for vigorous activity . I did research layering and planned to try some Marino wool base layers or even underwear . I got a pair a gore goretex cycling trousers which I live in and are fantastic. Also tried a few north face fleeces/soft shells and have settled on a north face goretex jacket I got used off of eBay.
In the past I would have said there is no way on Earth you would catch me in a pair of those man tight things . But I Now realise they really do serve a very practical purpose . I’ve yet to try any tho but willing to give them a go.
If I continue to wear cotton underwear I think I may probably have to continue dealing with sweat which I would rather not but maybe it’s unavoidable. I could lose weight , maybe that would help
I did once have a go of a friends bike that had one of those channels in the centre to get a bit of air flow and comfort and it felt great. I think brooks make a saddle with a hole in it which might be effective. Sweat and rubbing and chaffing and dealing with sores and cream does not seem like fun.
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Stuff like shoes would also be interesting. I’ve just been a pair of trainers type of guy , but recently tried a pair of berghaus goretex walking shoes which I liked . Although they were terrible on flat wet surfaces. Say I walked onto a bus and their was a bit of water on the floor off of folks feet then I could slip , or on a supermarket floor. Not ideal ! Not sure I would buy another pair. I think they would obviously excel on rigged ground /hiking and pretty good for general use, but I suspect there is a better option for cycling
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Footwear,
I have moved over the years from cycling shoes to cycling sandals which I find more comfortable.
Really bad weather might have me putting on a pair of sealskinz socks, but normally I go without socks - I don’t cycle in snow!
Worth a try.
Clothing,
A couple of brands which I have found work best for me, Ground Effect and Paramo, neither cheap but both long lasting and effective.
Have a look at their websites to see what is on offer.
Avoid cotton it just gets damp and stays that way against your skin.
Julian.
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Me, I switched from sandals to light trekking boots. With sandals, there was too much UV exposure on the bike. Sure, you can put sunscreen on your feet, but your feet quickly get grimy from the road, and then it feels gross to reapply sunscreen to those filthy feet.
Also, when walking through the wilderness at day’s end looking for a campsite, it is nice to have some protection from thorns, stinging nettle, or whatever else there might be.
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I forgot to say on the footwear topic , my toes or rather toenails have been hurting recently . I don’t know if it’s the newish trainers or something to do with the new mattress I got recently, but I’m like oh now, now is not the time to develop ingrown toenails before I start getting into touring !!
Footwear is one those things you don’t realise how important it is until you start having problems
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This discussion probably belongs in the Non-Thorn forum http://thorncyclesforum.co.uk/index.php?board=4.0 but you've raised an important subject. I pedalled over 5000 miles last year without going far from home partly for exercise and partly to figure out what works best for me. At the moment there's a close tie between this https://www.spacycles.co.uk/m18b0s204p2683/GILLES-BERTHOUD-Aravis-%28Titanium-rails%29 and this https://www.spacycles.co.uk/m18b0s204p4693/SPA-CYCLES-Nidd-Open-Titanium-Leather-Saddle (now available without the backing which made the Spa cycles saddles reluctant to deform) as the preferred saddle. The answer is probably something in between as the former is more comfortable when I'm in the more sporty position and the latter is preferred if I'm more upright. I'll continue to clock up miles with both but the Aravis may win on account of it having shallower rails which thus gives a bit more space for my Carradice Super-C rack bag.
I tried padded shorts once and they felt like wearing nappies (not that my memory goes back that far ::) so never again and am happier with"baggy" shorts or trousers (depending on the temperature). The Endura Humvee range are worth looking at but are bit heavy for hotter days for which I've got some lightweight Dare2b cycling shorts. Almost any shorts / trousers will do if they have flat seams although some are designed to avoid seams in the saddle contact area. These https://www.marksandspencer.com/3-pack-cool-and-fresh-trunks/p/clp60431378 are my best find for the bottom layer. They are fairly tight fitting around the legs so don't ride up while the material has an open weave and is fairly breathable and quick drying.
I've got a range of footwear to accommodate the seasons. Nothing is cycling-specific as I've always used flat pedals and my extremities freeze up very easily. Midwinter weather is combated by these https://www.clarksoutlet.co.uk/p/36100150 which are a size large so there's space for two pairs of socks while https://www.clarksoutlet.co.uk/p/36108350 are good for me up to around 10C. Both have nice grippy soles. Last autumn I picked up a pair of these https://www.clarksoutlet.co.uk/p/261345537 in grey for £20 on the off-chance that they would be good for cycling. They've only been used a couple of times but I've found them comfortable as the soles are fairly still. My feet got a bit warm 3/4 of the way round 43 miles so I took the socks off and they were still comfortable. However, if it's very hot then it will be either https://www.clarksoutlet.co.uk/p/35893030 or an older version of these https://www.clarksoutlet.co.uk/p/261416047 to provide more ventilation. I've not had a problem with sunburnt feet probably because the open sandals have been used enough that my feet have time to tan progressively.
Merino is good as it can be used for months without getting smelly. I've got one of these https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/merino-mens-long-sleeved-zip-neck-top-p13070.aspx/navy/ in bright red which can serve both as a base layer or as a layer in its own right or in combination with a flourescent yellow gilet. One needs the facility to strip off layers as the day progresses. Long zips on the front also help and all tops, in my opinion, should be brightly coloured to make it easier for inattentive drivers to see me.
It's a matter of buy and try on progressively longer rides, sensibly starting at the lower end of the price range so the rejects don't have a big fnancial impact (I've adopted a fairly similar philosophy with bicycles).
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This discussion probably belongs in the Non-Thorn forum...
Indeed. :) Moved.
Best,
Dan.
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Thanks Dan
JohnR
That’s a nice selection of stuff there. I checked all the links. I like the footwear, the shoes are very similar to the ones I had and killed and I think are laying in my garden somewhere https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/15906023/berghaus-men-s-ft18-gtx-walking-shoes-15906023/?istCompanyId=c2ec8a5d-93c1-4850-a97a-f4d89d7c99c8&istFeedId=2755fba0-7dfe-46a9-bfd0-09b37aed8b93&istItemId=wapippmww&istBid=t&gclid=Cj0KCQjwpdqDBhCSARIsAEUJ0hOiiMoQSMhIiCiPtP5nTdMSPPCpQ7gq2oNQXFf4sT-nhVoCt4LNKTUaAvQEEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds
They were a good all rounder, you could wear them anywhere and a bit more rugged than trainers but not too heavy. Comfy , flexible. Goretex . Socks still got sweaty in hotter weather . And I think when they got soaked in the rain and some water got in they took a bit of time to dry out. Think a lot of hikers in hot climates like regular running trainers as they are light comfy and good ventilation for sweat when running.
I would prefer to be able to wear the same clothes on and off the bike (fits my no fuss philosophy)
These have been brilliant, can’t recommend them enough https://www.gorewear.com/uk/en-uk/c3-gore-windstopper-pants-100038.html?dwvar_100038_color=9908&cgid=gw_sport_cycling_pants I wear them every day and go everywhere in them. Thin , lightweight
I’m looking at cycling shorts which are very similar https://www.gorewear.com/uk/en-uk/c5-gore-tex-paclite-trail-shorts-100574.html?dwvar_100574_color=9900&cgid=gw_sport_cycling_shorts but then I think hmm, what’s the point of goretex shorts, if it rains my legs will still get cold/wet and the water will run into my shoes/trainers and get cold wet feet. So not too sure. I guess it still might be worth it for the lightweight and breathability , but maybe there is better options.
I don’t think I could wear just cycling shirt with no underwear, I would have to go a 2 layer option . Some type of underwear and then shorts or trousers on top . As far as sweat goes maybe it can only be minimised and not eliminated completely. Not sure.
On the saddles you tired , did the one with the hole in the middle have any effect on sweat ? Does it keep you cooler ? Or is the hole more a design for comfort ?
It’s also interesting you say that your saddle preference differed on your riding position. That’s also something I will maybe have to experience later
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I have several pairs (in various conditions) of this shoe https://www.sportsdirect.com/karrimor-mount-low-mens-walking-shoes-183075#colcode=18307505 (https://www.sportsdirect.com/karrimor-mount-low-mens-walking-shoes-183075#colcode=18307505) which I find grip well to my pedals, are reasonably breathable and keep my feet mostly dry too. I've tried cyclingshoes with cleats both Shimano and Crankbrothers eggwhisk but never really found shoes that worked well with my clodhopper size 10.5-11 G fitting feet. My platform pedals have raised low studs which hold well with the grips on the shoe come rain or shine.
I've worn padded cycling shorts. There is a good argument for them on longer rides. But agree with the nappy analogy. I don't wear them on my daily 10 mile each way ride to work and back. My backside is used to the saddle that the padding is only nice to have for longer rides.
My daily ride wear is cotton Fruit of the Loom tracksuit bottoms and a cotton T shirt in the winter. Add a kidney belt for really cold days, and then a hi vis outdoor lightweight jacket. Rain resistant on days I don't expect a downpour as these breathe better, and 'breathable' waterproof jackets on rainy days which tend to make you sweat more if not raining to cool you down. Even in just T-shirt and jacket with 0 degrees and frost this morning, I was already warm after 2 km. I have some waterproof legs and shoe covers if lots of rain expected too. As the weather improves I'll ride in T-shirt with my Ikea hi-vis waistcoat and cut of tracky bottoms for shorts. In the warmer weather I seem to sweat less, or at least it evaporates before soaking my T-shirt.
I leave a selection of office clothes at the office so I don't need to carry too much most of the time. I hang my bike clothes to dry out of sight (in a basement room) and these are generally ready for the homebound trip later- which is more downhill so I'll be reasonably dry when I get home without needing to get changed the moment I step in the door. But I also keep a single dry set of clothes and shoes for the once or twice a year I get drenched and clothes are still damp by COB.
Generally I prefer natural fibers but nothing that will become too waterlogged on a ride. I've even ridden 9 miles between office locations in shirt and tie to save changing on arrival.
I did buy some running leggings and have a couple of closer fit bike jackets. Not warm enough quite yet for those, but they are more wind resistant than my baggy cotton track suit bottoms and make lighter work on cool but windier days.
My Brooks saddle is only now becoming molded to my backside after around 2000km. My Selle Royal gel seat before was comfy, but encouraged sweat. The leather on my Brooks seems to let the southern necessity breath a bit better. With Brooks it has not been an instant win, but a gradual conversion of opinion on comfort. I don't have the cutaway on this seat, but have had seats in the past with such a cutaway. Not convinced if the benefit is real on my bum though.
If you are riding for yourself- just wear clothes you are comfortable wearing. Wear 2 T-shirts (or a vest under) if you want one to absorb sweat and the other to hide the damp patches below. This is great if you are passing through but don't want to or cannot change clothes on the way. A chainglider or belt drive might keep your trouser legs clean(er) but avoid wider legs which can catch or snag on other objects too. I bought some cheap stretchy jeans in Matalan which are better for riding than my preferred Wranglers because they stretch while riding. But they are cheap so if they wear through from saddle rub- so what. 3 pairs for 25 quid was what I paid. A single pair of branded jeans will cost you more than that and be too thick to ride comfortably in.
There is always an argument for good sports clothes. Normally it is one you can have with your partner about 'how much was that!?!?!?!' . Just remember the next time you see an overweight teenager with his Nike shoes, his Manchester City shirt and his Adidas track suit legs that none of those items will make him fitter than doing the same in his school PE kit and Plimsoles of yesteryear. Just be active in clothes you are comfortable with when on your bike.
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Hmmmm, for me it has to be padded cycle shorts/tights and lycra tops. I throw lightweight Rohan bags in the pannier as a pair of non cycling trousers, and cotton T's or a long sleeved cotton shirt for Eating out :D
I have several pairs of cycling shorts with pad thickness suiting Audax distances to really thin pads for triathlon type. I also have a couple of pairs of cotton "pants" with a true chamois lining for under thin trousers. Washing them out isn't too much of a problem at the end of the day, and 2 pairs do not take up to much room in the pannier.
Shoe wise, I use a pair of Giro Rumble Touring SPD (https://www.wiggle.co.uk/giro-rumble-vr-off-road-shoe?sku=5360746997) shoes with SPD cleats. The cleats are recessed and don't interfere with normal walking on or off trails. I didn't think I was ever going to use clip in pedals but having used both SPD and Look Keo for the last 6 years, I won't go back to platform or toe clips. For my road bike I'm going to give up on the Look Keo (Garmin Vector) pedals and go back to SPD, and I'll use these MTB shoes from Planet-X (https://www.planetx.co.uk/i/q/SHPXFLCMTBS/planet-x-fully-loaded-carbon-mtb-shoe) ... great for cafe stops, and still rigid for a solid platform for long distances.
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Me, I switched from sandals to light trekking boots. With sandals, there was too much UV exposure on the bike. Sure, you can put sunscreen on your feet, but your feet quickly get grimy from the road, and then it feels gross to reapply sunscreen to those filthy feet.
Also, when walking through the wilderness at day’s end looking for a campsite, it is nice to have some protection from thorns, stinging nettle, or whatever else there might be.
Where are you at my friend ? Did you say you live outside of U.K. ? Yeah, I’m not a fan of sunscreen . Greasy , grimy , sweaty feet that get stung and scratches with thorns and nettles doesn’t sound like fun lol 😂 although I think the Romans used to sting themselves on purpose to boost their immune system ? Could be an urban myth 🤔
I could maybe do sandals and light socks if that would stop the sunburn
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Here's the antidote for soggy thighs and knees https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rainlegs-Black-Waterproof-Protector-Large/dp/B001SEQRCM . They go well with shorts and fairly easy to put on if you encounter significant summer rain. I don't mind soggy lower legs but don't like wet feet. If water gets into Goretex or similar lined shoes then, as noted already, they are slow to dry. That's one advantage of sandals when the weather is warm enough. I spent significant money in the search for what I consider to be good overshoes namely those which can be quickly put on mid-ride. This means they need to open completely at the back, which most don't. My quest ended with some Eager overshoes which were made by a couple of ladies in Wales who used to sell them on ebay. However, they seem to have retired and the only ones remaining are these https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Eager-Sports-Waterproof-cycling-overshoes-Made-in-Wales/183771921466 . Most overshoes need to be put on with the shoe removed - not easy if standing by the side of a road. They also tend to be very tight fitting and a challenge to pull over the footwear.
I've never managed to generate enough heat to be worried about how much ventilation a saddle provides and I find that baggy shorts provide fairly good ventilation for that part of the body. The benefit I've noticed of having a slot in the middle of a saddle is that the two sides have more flexibility to move independently as the legs move.
And we haven't touched on helmets yet. I want a visor which is big enough to keep the rain off my specs and low sunshine out of my eyes. Most helmets have small visors which are necessary for those who cycle with their heads well down and the choice of helmets with larger visors is more limited. I've also retro-fitted my helmets with some mesh on the front holes (some helmets come with this fitted) as it's discomforting to have a bee fly in one of the front holes and not figure out how to leave.
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It's way too big a subject to offer much advice, so this is general rather than specific - Play around with it and when you find what works for you, go buy the best quality of that type. This has worked for me, I've ended up with very little cycling gear, but it all suits me perfectly, none of it will be replaced till it wears out, which in some cases will be never. My favourite makes are - Showers Pass, Rohan, Howies and Vulpine, some of it looks eye wateringly expensive, but a £70 shirt that you wear 15 weeks a year for more than ten years is better value than one that keeps getting replaced.
I stopped using SPD's last year after an accident left it painful to twist out of them, after using them for the last twenty years on every ride I'm surprised how much I miss them - not at all. I'm still playing around with shoe and pedal combinations, but they're all OK and I can't see my going back to SPD's. I'm not saying what's right or wrong, but sometimes we do things because everyone else does and then discover there was no advantage...
Saddles, yes I know it's personal, I'm a convert to Brooks C17's, I'm gradually moving the whole fleet onto them, saddles I thought were OK seem a lot less comfortable after riding a C17.
Padded shorts - again it's personal, I do most of my riding in non padded underwear, but most of that will be on and off the bike, maybe all day, maybe 60-80 miles, but rarely an hour in the saddle without a break. When I have longer days with few breaks, I use padded bibs, Howies and Vulpine. I might be OK on some of these rides without padding, but by the time I'll discover that's a mistake it'll be too late. I also have some padded underwear with much thinner padding than shorts, they're OK but the riding I used to use them for is fine without on a C17.
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Here's the antidote for soggy thighs and knees https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rainlegs-Black-Waterproof-Protector-Large/dp/B001SEQRCM .
At that price they're certainly worth trying, I know several riders who swear by them, but they didn't suit me, the straps would rub and snag and the mesh at the front was right where the water from my race cut jacket runs off. Worth the experiment and were easy to sell on for not much loss. For the same principal of being waterproof where it needs it, while being more comfortable elsewhere, I find these trousers fantastic, as they should be at 5X the price
https://showerspass.co.uk/collections/mens-pants/products/skyline-pant
For dry feet, I've also used the Eagar overshoes which used to be available via the CTC shop, they are good and have the advantage of fitting over all shoes if you get the right size, I still have a pair somewhere, though they're in need of repair. If it's likely to be very wet, I now use waterproof socks, they've come on a long way since the early attempts by Sealskin, now there's plenty of choice and as long as your shoes have enough room, it's possible to have warm, dry, comfortable feet all day. The disadvantage compared with overshoes is of course you still have shoes that need drying out and can be filthy. It amuses me to see cyclists go to so much trouble to stay dry and not have guards/flaps fitted, IMO it's more effective than any clothing, or at the very least it gives the clothing a better chance of working well - Yes I know I'm preaching tot he converted here...
I'm quite lucky in that I make some money from using a bike for takeaway deliveries. I don't like to waste it, but a couple of hundred quid on the right clothing easily pays for itself by working when I might otherwise not. It's also a good test of gear, not just the hours, but there's more money to be made when the conditions are bad, so I'm often riding when I wouldn't do so for pleasure.
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If you’ve never tried soft shell stuff it’s worth a shot
I went and bought a few different used north face jackets/fleeces off eBay a couple years ago to try and was really impressed
The soft shell is really rugged and keeps its shape well so it always looks pretty good. It’s light, you can fold it down small and Chuck it in a bag. Many have water resistant coating . They have a nice chest pocket for your phone/wallet and other pockets inside for phones and routing of headphone cables if that’s your thing.
The only thing I wasn’t a fan of on SOME north face stuff was the higher cut , I like a bit of length at the back, especially if cycling . But, they are very comfy and obviously they are cut that way more for climbing oriented activity .
For cycling In hotter weather they are really worth a shot, and they work well in blocking your neck and arms from sunburn. Can leave them unzipped and wear a t shirt underneath. When it gets a bit chillier then just zip it up and synch it up to keep out the wind.
My journey with north face peaked when I bought a north face apex goretex jacket . I’ve never been happier , it’s just brilliant . Ideal for going anywhere as it’s smart but casual and works perfectly for cycling . Got a hood to keep rain off. It’s got pit zips to dump too much heat out. I picked it up off eBay from a seller in Poland. This is the same jacket I have . Doesn’t look very glamorous or interesting in these photos but I’m not sure I could find a better jacket for my needs. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/The-North-Face-Apex-Flex-GTX-Hooded-Rain-Jacket-Sz-Large-/154396331942?_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286
I was not a fan of north face fleece stuff . Well to be fair , fleeces In general . But, that’s mainly because of pet hair . And how they look a bit rough after a while . They are very comfy tho.
I just bought a few cotton hoody’s from next and U.K. reminded how cozy they are, especially as a layer under my north face jacket .
Another thing I liked was just a plain old baseball cap. Keep the sun off your head /neck. I like wearing them under the hood of my jacket. I look a bit drug dealer but they are great for keeping the rain /snow/sunshine off your face .
Im not really a fan of berghaus style jackets. I like the look and style but it’s just the crinkliness of the material after a while. Vanity I guess ! I used to have a 3/4 length jacket with internal fleece jacket that could be zipped in and out which was ok but nothing special. The shell on its own is not very comfortable against bare arms if you have a T-shirt underneath . Fussy or wot?! 😆
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I bought this softshell top last November https://www.wiggle.co.uk/fohn-zonda-softshell (a good hi-visibility colour) for £45 and it proved very good for the winter months with one or more layers underneath as appropriate while also keeping out heavy drizzle. I considered softshell trousers but haven't yet bought any.
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Adding to the canon:
I’ve found wearing a long-sleeve, turtle-neck, zipped merino wool top under my Paramo Quito jacket a suitable combination for many types of weather. The Quito has very long pit zips, which are great for temperature control/ventilation. The hood is huge but the draw strings allow you to pull it tight or loosen it off. I also like the Quito’s quietness when riding.
I get my Merino from Mountain Warehouse and Icebreaker but I’m concerned about the provenance of these suppliers and am currently awaiting a response from Icebreaker re where their products are made and by whom.
I’m sure the plus fours and tweeds enthusiasts will be along shortly.😀
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The
BTwin 500 Urban waterproof cycling overtrousers
Have shoe covers integrated into them . Handy
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I bought this softshell top last November https://www.wiggle.co.uk/fohn-zonda-softshell (a good hi-visibility colour) for £45 and it proved very good for the winter months with one or more layers underneath as appropriate while also keeping out heavy drizzle. I considered softshell trousers but haven't yet bought any.
The problem with softshell is it covers a whole load of different fabrics! I have a Vulpine/Hoy softshell jersey which is pretty water resistant but fairly stiff and a Rohan softshell which is a very soft material but defeated by anything more than a light drizzle (A fantastic walking jacket all the same)
I have some Peter Storm softshell trousers which are a different material again, they are great when it's really cold, but too warm most of the time, I haven't used them in heavy rain yet. I can't see me getting a lot of use from them, that's OK, they weren't expensive and those times when it is cold enough for them they feel a real luxury.
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For a few years now I’ve noticed soft shell stuff being popular amongst clothing sold for tradesmen and workmen . Helly Hanson , Tough stuff, loads of other brands I can’t remember.
I just found this as I searched for what I would like in a good cycling jacket
1. Hi viz
2. Goretex
3. Soft shell
This ticks all of these boxes . Not cheap, but as they say generally you get what you pay for
https://www.hhworkwear.com/en_gb_ww/icu-hi-vis-3-layer-shell-jacket-71172?gclid=Cj0KCQjw6-SDBhCMARIsAGbI7Uj4ivkEMitR8X1FVBbBC5q_qNPK8KdTEbVD6lXeqEYCXacCX_7i68IaAhuaEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds
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Interesting info on north faces newish futurlight tech. They reckon is better than goretex
https://etree.co/the-north-face-futurelight-better-than-gore-tex/
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For a few years now I’ve noticed soft shell stuff being popular amongst clothing sold for tradesmen and workmen . Helly Hanson , Tough stuff, loads of other brands I can’t remember.
I just found this as I searched for what I would like in a good cycling jacket
1. Hi viz
2. Goretex
3. Soft shell
This ticks all of these boxes . Not cheap, but as they say generally you get what you pay for
https://www.hhworkwear.com/en_gb_ww/icu-hi-vis-3-layer-shell-jacket-71172?gclid=Cj0KCQjw6-SDBhCMARIsAGbI7Uj4ivkEMitR8X1FVBbBC5q_qNPK8KdTEbVD6lXeqEYCXacCX_7i68IaAhuaEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds
I looked at jacket on the link. Perhaps I need to polish my glasses but other than hi-vis colour i didn’t see that it was soft shell or Gortex.
The term soft was used- which might imply soft shell but might also mean something else.
The material is Helly Tech professional not Gortex. It might be breathable but there are different requirements for breathability on a bike jacket than on a work jacket or a hiking jacket.
The cut of a cycling jacket is often better suited for cycling than other types of jacket, e.g no hood as this restricts vision and may not fit if helmet is worn. Slightly longer cut on back so you aren’t smiling to the car drivers unintentionally when leaning forward to your handlebars. And breathability plays a key role to transport sweat vapour out of jacket.
I have a Gortex Jack Wolfskin branded non cycling outdoor jacket that keeps me dry in all circumstances except cycling. The fold away hood means neck feels bulky riding with helmet. The ventilation zips on arms help air but I generate too much heat cycling for it to be effective except in the coldest situations.
My bike jackets are generally thinner and have more breathability needed for the extra heat and sweat generated when cycling. None are as waterproof as my Gortex outdoor jacket, which would keep me dry all day in non cycling conditions but ends up like a sauna on a long bike ride with my clothes wet from properties not designed for a sports situation like that.
There is no perfect jacket for all year round but a series of jackets for different situations on a bike.
I have 2 waterproof jackets which are great in rain and cold but get uncomfortable on longer rides if not cold and wet outside. I also have a number of shower proof jackets with higher breathability and comfort for riding in general but not much good if rain gets heavy or persistent. All my jackets are bright colours with reflective details for my safety.
With frosty mornings but low teen afternoon temperatures I often ride to work in my warmer waterproof bike jackets but return in a lighter weight shower proof jacket unless it is pouring with rain. But as bike jackets are generally thinner than outdoor jackets, neither take too much space in my bike bag. You will need to find what works for you biting don’t think there is an all year all round bike jacket that is perfect for every situation and you may end up like me with several jackets for various situations.
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There's a lotta sweat going on here! Why not go slower! Seriously. Why hammer? I know when you are younger you have so much to see and do,but hey! in the scheme of things,you've got more years left than a lot of us who are older. Why not set off that bit earlier,or set your goals a bit lower. It's not a race(altho I know it can get that way). Cool it! Have a look around. There's only one who can be the winner. The rest of us(as they say-well,some say)are losers. I know,its not fun being the loser,but its less stressful. Push yourself by all means(I guess its the way to improve)but dont go OTT.
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There's a lotta sweat going on here! Why not go slower! Seriously. Why hammer?
You don't need to be hammering it to sweat, how do you ride up hill with the same level of exertion as the flat? Do you adjust your clothing every time the temperature goes up a degree or two? We all sweat at different levels, there's plenty of research, but we all sweat, don't be thinking your experience is the same as everyone else's.
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There's a lotta sweat going on here! Why not go slower! Seriously. Why hammer?
You don't need to be hammering it to sweat, how do you ride up hill with the same level of exertion as the flat? Do you adjust your clothing every time the temperature goes up a degree or two? We all sweat at different levels, there's plenty of research, but we all sweat, don't be thinking your experience is the same as everyone else's.
I think he was offering his own personal experience.
Great to read about how other folks manage their tours.
Cheaper to learn from others err... mistakes/ experiences.
I've mashed out 125 miles plus in a day. And I've done considerably less on a tour.
But as my good friend Gerald once told me, "There's no chequered flag at the end of the day".
Best
Matt
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This ticks all of these boxes . Not cheap, but as they say generally you get what you pay for
Steve has covered it, but that wouldn't tick any boxes for me. Apart from the colour it's probably in the same category as the Softshell trousers i mentioned above, fantastic for a very limited range of conditions, but inappropriate most of the time.
If you want to spend that sort of money on a jacket, and there's no need to, this gets my vote
https://showerspass.co.uk/collections/mens-waterproof-jackets/products/refuge-jacket
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There's a lotta sweat going on here! Why not go slower! Seriously. Why hammer?
You don't need to be hammering it to sweat, how do you ride up hill with the same level of exertion as the flat? Do you adjust your clothing every time the temperature goes up a degree or two? We all sweat at different levels, there's plenty of research, but we all sweat, don't be thinking your experience is the same as everyone else's.
I think he was offering his own personal experience.
I thought they were offering advice?
Why not go slower! Seriously. Why hammer?
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The clothing I wear matches the expected environment.
Did the OP mention anything about that?
Sorry if I missed it.
My clothing for my Ethiopian tour from Addis Ababa to the source of the Blue Nile back in '18 ( 2018, I'm old but not that old?!? ), was very different to my 2017 tour of the Outer Hebrides.
Just as we pick the best bike for out tours, we pick the most appropriate clothing.
Where is the OP off to?
Some of my cycling pals post home warm clothes when they reach the tropics. And visa versa.
Or purchase as you go. One way to support the local economy although not always easy to buy top quality/ fav brands.
Such a good subject to open up.
Thanks to OP.
Best
Matt
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I offered my wisdom with a ;). I no longer preach. I knew a lot when I was younger,but have found out with increasing years I didnt know what I was talking about. I probably still dont. I sometimes pop in for a chat,maybe have a cuppa...then depart. I am pleased if others are pleased. Its good that not everyone is like me...or like everyone else: good to have varying cyclists countryside.
Lets hope covid goes away. Let us all hope we can get out this summer and the sun comes out.
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Hmmm, been reading some mixed reviews on the futurelight stuff (YouTube )
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Lots of good comments, good food for though . BIG topic
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Anyone tried merino wool base layer ?
A few years back I did a bit of research on layering systems , mainly for hiking .
I also do a bit of open air preaching (yup, I’m one of them religious guys ☺️) so I had to figure out how to retain heat well while basically just standing around for hours in mixed weather conditions. I concluded a goose down feather type layer (jacket or body warmer ) was probably going to be an essential part of the formula . But that’s certainly not going to work for cycling in Africa 🤣.
But back to merino wool. I had looked at quite a few different bits and pieces . Some very pricey . But I had my eye on a good quality long sleeve top, that I think could work no matter what I’m doing or where I am
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Tyreon
I too can be very creative with my comments in the written word and I often confuse people 😊
It’s hard to understand a person’s personality/ sense of humour /tone etc online sometimes
Now I’m starting to wonder .... just how sweaty am I ? On a scale of 1 to 10. Ah, that analytical brain kicking in again 😁
I’m about 16 tone in weight and think that may have a contribution , but also the clothing I’m wearing /the saddle /the weather , arrrgh , so mainly variables ! Guess I shall keep hunting for the needle in the haystack .
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Ah, sorry , just re-reading comments
In4 has already said he has tried merino wool
Anyone else ?
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As a few folk already touched on...
I think I may have to surrender my no fuss personality a little bit.
I’m considering a separate waterproof jacket instead of having to have a single year round waterproof jacket/shell
Also, with a move to a touring type bike there will be plenty storage for multiple types of clothing to be carried instead of a heavy sweaty backpack
The goretex shake dry stuff gets good reviews for being truly waterproof and also breathable .
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PH
Interesting point about the variableness (is that a word ? ) of soft shell clothing of stuff marketed as such .
I’ve only every had north face soft shell clothing
Maybe in the back of my mind I thought “soft shell” was a clearly definable material but maybe not , maybe it can’t be nailed down .
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Steve
Oh yeah, your right , it’s not actually goretex. I had searched up “hiviz soft shell goretex” and google pulled this jacket up.
My thought process is to buy a jacket that can cover worst case scenario northeast Scotland weather when I’m commuting to work , aswell as the bonus of having hiviz, but now I’m reconsidering after reading all the comments .
I like the look of the gore goretex jackets. The only thing is they don’t look tough enough for my worst case scenario weather . But good fit into a newly adopted philosophy.
I don’t wear a helmet , as I don’t spend much time on roads , but am considering getting one , and I guesss this would effect my clothing choice .
How does the rain interact with helmets ? I am just Imagining all the water going down my neck coz my cycling jacket has no hood , but is this the case ?
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Matt
It’s been in the back of mine after reading about your Ethiopia trip , as to what your wore when you were there and how you dealt with sun protection ?
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In4
Just been reading up people’s experiences/thoughts on paramo. What made you go for it? One U.K. guy said it’s the best on a cold rainy day as it keeps you a bit warmer than other brands like goretex etc. And I read it works differently.
On the merino wool top. You went with turtle neck with zip. I was looking at this option years ago and wondered if I would actually use the zip or not , or if I should just got for a non turtle neck one. What’s been your experience?
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Haha. That’s the way to do it
https://youtu.be/vIY1tMtULBA
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In4 has already said he has tried merino wool
Anyone else ?
I've been using the same merino top throughout the winter as a base layer with choice of additional layers / top according to the temperature and it hasn't been near a washing machine but is still odour-free - a key feature of merino wool. That top is actually a long-sleeved polo shirt that I found in an M&S Outlet for a few £££ but I've got other merino tops from Mountain Warehouse (someone else also mentioned them) with the 1/4 zip https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/merino-mens-long-sleeved-zip-neck-top-p13070.aspx/navy/ (I normally have the zip open to allow a little extra airflow). It's usually possible to find a discount code to further reduce what is already a reasonable price.
I’m considering a separate waterproof jacket instead of having to have a single year round waterproof jacket/shell
Multiple layers is always reckoned to be better, both to handle seasonal differences and temperature changes during an all-day ride. Both water-proofness and breathability are relative terms with makers quoting numbers which should be comparable. Under-arm and top of back vents are desirable which, combined with a slightly open zip allow a bit of air circulation. For emergency use I always carry a thin but waterproof top which I know has zero breathability and quickly builds up a layer of moisture on the inside but is fine for a short but heavy shower. If a wet day is anticipated then a proper waterproof top is better but it's prudent to have provision for strapping it onto the outside of the baggage should the rain stop.
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I offered my wisdom with a ;). I no longer preach. I knew a lot when I was younger,but have found out with increasing years I didnt know what I was talking about. I probably still dont. I sometimes pop in for a chat,maybe have a cuppa...then depart. I am pleased if others are pleased. Its good that not everyone is like me...or like everyone else: good to have varying cyclists countryside.
Lets hope covid goes away. Let us all hope we can get out this summer and the sun comes out.
Nice comment/view.
Personally, the older the get the more I realise that I know less than most other folks. So tend to keep it buttoned!
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Matt
It’s been in the back of mine after reading about your Ethiopia trip , as to what your wore when you were there and how you dealt with sun protection ?
I was only 600 miles from the equator so UV and sun intense. Any part of my skin not shielded, was burnt.
Had to learn the hard way - and even when taking precautuions - an ankle exposed, suffered within the hour.
Back to clothing - pick your bike, pick your destination and pick your clothing.
Buy cheap - buy twice.
Going by your previous posts - I think the bike is almost sorted.
Any thoughts you'd like to share with regards to location/destination?
If it's RTW, there are lots of directions and starting points. No need to start from your door-step. Although it's cheaper than flying to a start point and continuing - or biking home.
As with a bike - lots to consider on this topic. Wind direction, political situation, time of year - the list goes on.
I was fortuante in having family to support me in my dream. For some, the home situation can be a big problem to sort out before you take that first step.
And remember - for every year you wait - you've lost a year of cycling. ;)
Best
Matt
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I no longer preach.
Why not set off that bit earlier, or set your goals a bit lower.
Sounds like preaching to me!
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Matt
Yup, as far as bike, First choice would be a new or used nomad, whatever fits. A close second I’d go for a new or used raven. Well, can’t get em new now but I suppose a lot of used bikes have had very little use.
Clothing, I might just buy a bunch of stuff and experiment before I go or as I go! At the moment I’m a poor man with expensive tastes which is not a good combo lol 😆.
My poverty is about to end this year tho, my American wife has received some stocks in IBM in inheritance so once that sells in the next few months I will be good to go on the bike buying front. Hooray 😃!!!
Since I can’t buy anything yet, i have been using the time to do all my research .
As far as trips . My first thigh was LEJOG , or more likely T2B(Thorn to Boddam) pop down to England , get a bike and bike home . Give me a bit of experience. I would be a bit concerned about route planning for staying safe so could follow a good bit of tried and tested LEJOG routes. I could maybe even tag along with others for part of the journey i suppose. Don’t know if I would do BandB or camp. I lack so much experience in these areas. I thought about buying a small tent and good quality mat and sleeping bag and getting some practice sleeping in it outdoors at home just to get used to it. Was also looking at ways to build up my fitness and mileage on the current bike I have so I’m ready to go once I purchase .
If I buy a used bike , then might just bike home from wherever I buy it in the U.K.
I’d love to jump on a ferry or go through the euro tunnel and explore Europe. France and Spain . My big dream would be to bike to Israel and Egypt , spend some time there. I’d would be up for anything really . I would just need to get some miles , experience and confidence under my belt then I’m ready for the world tour
I am definitely READY to go, I don’t want to waste anymore time , especially if lockdowns kick
Back in later in the year. I want to make the most of the time
Family life is tricky just now . We homeschool 5 kids and it’s a big burden. But most of the time it’s a piece of cake. It’s just moments when things can get very intense ! I’m very blessed to have a wife that lets me go out whenever I want within reason. She let me go to Ireland for 3 weeks in 2017 so I’m sure she would be willing to make sacrifices to let me enjoy my new bike
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Matt
Have you had a lot of experience travelling abroad ?
My other question is , would you say a people person ? As in, do you feel recharged around people or do you get “peopled out “ ? More of an introvert or extrovert ?
I guess this is another interesting area of discussion
How your personality has an effect on travelling , being in a different culture , dealing with language barrier (if there is one )
Maybe I should start a new topic for that one actually
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Re Paramo choice:
I use Paramo gear for hillwalking so positive, previous experience with it.
Being perhaps a little too critical of my Quito:
The fabric flops around a little as it has no inherent stiffness, like a goretex jacket. It is wedge shaped however. That mitigates a bit. The cuffs get quite sweaty if like me you prefer them tighter around the wrist; so as to fit in my industrial quality gloves. Piano player y’see!
The Quito will be very warm in the summer but generally very comfortable in UK.
There can be a lot of fabric around the nape of your neck but I guess your own physiology will be a factor regarding relative comfort.
Re merino: Yes, get a long sleeved top with a turtle/roll neck definitely with a 1/4 or 1/3 zip. Keeps you warm around your neck and not too sweaty. The zip is obviously great for ventilation plus you’ll be able to show off your heavy gold neck chain. Result lol
Ultimately don’t agonise or procrastinate too much. You’ll never ride if you do. Unless you are intending to ride remote or extreme, there’s lots of stuff on the high street that is perfectly adequate. Have you got a bike frame size in mind?
Happy to help😃 🚴
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I’d love to be able to play the piano properly, for me it’s the ultimate instrument. My daughter plays and we just got her her first uptight piano , a Kawai. It’s a beauty. I teach guitar for a living and work in a music school , I start back on Monday after being off for months.
Yeah, I definitely want to try some merino out
From memory the last time I measured I think I can fit into 3 frame sizes on the nomad , the 565L, the 590L and the big man 620L . Have spoken to guys who are around 6 foot(has a 565L) and the other is just over 6” 1 (has the 620L) and I’m 6 foot and half an inch , right in the middle of them haha. I guess it’s not just height but limb length too that’s a factor. I’ve got long legs and short torso . I have a hunch the 590L would be a good fit (that’s now a 58L on the nomad mk3)
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I see proviz have some new stuff
https://www.provizsports.com/en-gb/cycling/mens?dir=desc&order=price
I was just revisiting this stuff again. Think folk didn’t like it coz it wasn’t breathable . Maybe the tech is getting a bit better
I quite like the reversible gilet hiviz/reflective.
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What clothing do you all wear for cycling during the day and night
Specifically if your on the roads and for safety visibility
So far I’ve concluded for daytime hiviz would be a good idea , I like yellow, but orange seems to pop well to the eye too.
Also a battery powered day running light
For night , Dynamo light front and back , plus the daytime running light at night time
And a reflective jacket like proviz
So in summary, Dynamo lights front and back + daytime running lights , plus hiviz plus reflective
I also consider getting my hiviz from bright white or yellow ortlieb bags. White seems to pop well against a black bike , black clothing .
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So far I’ve concluded for daytime hiviz would be a good idea , I like yellow, but orange seems to pop well to the eye too.
Sam Browne belt in fluorescent yellow woven tissue (for breathability) with strands of silver reflective material for night-time visibility. I wear this nearly all the time. It used to work extremely well to attract attention, because it is similar to the equipment worn by French motorcycle police. But with the explosion in hi-viz jackets, it gets noticed less nowadays.
Most hi-viz stuff isn't very breathable and causes sweat build up when I wear it, so I avoid it when I can. But if doing long distances I generally wear bright coloured cycling clothing, for short errands I just wear ordinary stuff. In both cases I wear the Sam Browne belt over the clothing. For light rain I have a hi-viz Montane jacket, for heavy rain either a bright red cape with reflective patches or a Quito jacket that isn't particularly visible (with this I again use the Sam Browne belt).
Also a battery powered day running light
I generally only use the battery powered rear lamp during the day time in bad visibility (fog, rain).
For night , Dynamo light front and back , plus the daytime running light at night time
I don't have specific daytime lighting, I just leave the dynamo lighting on nearly all the time (I sometimes turn it off on bright sunny days when riding on roads with little traffic). The (bright) headlamp aids visibility and makes it more likely that cars will not pull out in front of me at junctions (car driver reflex - single bright white lamp equals fast motorcycle rather than slow bicycle).
So in summary, Dynamo lights front and back + daytime running lights , plus hiviz plus reflective
I add two strips of red reflective tape on my (big) rear mudflaps. A front reflector of some kind to comply with the regulations here in France (I don't consider it useful, the front lamp deals with visibility from that direction). And Sekuclip wheel reflectors that clip onto the spokes and are visible from quite a wide viewing angle at night, instead of the flat orange spoke reflectors that are IMO completely useless in most real-world situations. Pedal reflectors to comply with the regulations (not completely useless, but often obscured by touring luggage). My recent Ortleib panniers have reflective patches, but not my old home-made panniers or my old Carradice saddlebags.
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Some years ago I went to a police talk on road visibility, intended for those on an IAM motorcycle course. The theory they were presenting was that contrast is what gets you noticed and that hi-vis, despite it's name, doesn't always offer the best. They considered the white hat of the traffic officers as important as the yellow jacket.
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PH
Yeah, good point about the contrasts.
I was looking through google images at pannier bags and was noticing in the pictures which actual things about the cyclist actually popped out to the eye, and it’s not always what you expect.
And recently during the day a cyclist was near us while we were about to turn at a junction and it hit me how he wasn’t really that noticeable and this was during the day. He did have a hiviz hat but it looked kind of dull and I didn’t really notice it until he was passing . I think if he was wearing a yellow or orange hiviz top he would have got my attention , and I think a day time light would have got my attention even more. And the combo of both would have been even better . I wasn’t driving the car just sitting in the passenger seat. But it makes you think how easy it is for cyclists to get hit. Maybe it’s due to ignorance of not really being aware of how your seem to others. I know I have been guilty in the past but have really been enlightened over the last couple years.
But I guess that a lot of drivers are now wired to anticipate the possibility of cyclists dressed in dark colours with no lights flying out onto the road in front of them , so maybe it gives those who attempt to be as visible as possible an even greater of safety. Hmm 🤔
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But I guess that a lot of drivers are now wired to anticipate the possibility of cyclists dressed in dark colours with no lights flying out onto the road in front of them, so maybe it gives those who attempt to be as visible as possible an even greater of safety. Hmm 🤔
I wouldn't assume that all drivers are deliberately looking out for cyclists particularly if they are distracted by various electronic gizmos (including those built in to many modern vehicles). A cyclist dressed in black in a shadow on a bright day can be difficult to see. As a driver, I notice that black and tarmac grey (the most popular colour) cars are more difficult to see than vehicles with bright-coloured paint. DRLs make it easier to see such vehicles when approaching but don't help if if you are approaching from behind. Furthermore, such vehicles seem to be the last to put their lights on when dusk approaches.
Another item in my wardrobe is last year's version of this https://www.amazon.co.uk/WOSAWE-Breathable-Reflective-Sleeveless-Night£¨Green/dp/B07CXVKPN8 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/WOSAWE-Breathable-Reflective-Sleeveless-Night£¨Green/dp/B07CXVKPN8). I like the full-length zip on the front so it can provide some protection from the cold, if needed but the bits of black mixed in with the yellow may help the contrast issue.
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There is a company in Scotland, https://findraclothing.com, worth looking at. Having tried a couple of their smaller items to compare with other manufacturers I find them very good. I have a neck warmer and socks. Both are excellent quality. The socks are far better than any I have paid a fortune for from Rapha. Will be trying base layers in the near future. Also, it's good to support a small and ethical company. Win-Win! It's surprising what you can find by accident :). I found them through a small company, https://www.outdoorprovisions.co.uk, that supply good nutrition. Binned all my, so called, scientific stuff and gone natural.
Saddles and shorts: surprised nobody has mentioned chamois cream. Some people love it, some hate it. Most have a medicated ingredient that helps to keep the man bits comfortable and healthy. I had a lot of problems in the past but good shorts, such as Santini, with cream and a good saddle helped a lot. I have a love-hate relationship with my B17 and I now use an SQ Labs Ergowave. It's odd to start with but very comfortable.
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Socks : whose tried....
Sealskinz or Merino wool
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On my way to work today on the bus I spent the journey looking for which colours stood out to my eye and would be most noticeable.
The main things that stood out first were white. White cars and vans. Especially in the direct sunlight. Then I noticed white more , goal posts, sign posts, road markings. Yellow was another one.
Also on some signs on a roundabout they were a mix of yellow blue and white, that really popped out to the eye, but also the sort of reflective material definitely added to this.
I did see a few guys in hiviz and it certainly works.
As JohnR mentioned dark clothing and black /silver cars were not very noticeable and get worse the darker it gets
My feeling is that white is a very good strong choice .it’s punchy to the eye during the day and even when it starts getting dark it still staff out. My feeling is that I may go with white ortlieb bags , which will contrast with a black bike and black clothing. I may go for a white hiviz vest to to throw on top of my jacket. I’m feeling confident the zebra look will be a strong contender for good visibility . Also I might go for the cliché yellow hiviz to work with the black and the white.
From the back I like the idea of looking wide by having two side panniers and then the rack pack on top . A nice big wide blob of black and white off the panniers with red light or lights in between.
I’m considering just having both front and back Dynamo lights on constantly during day and night , unless there is reasons not to.
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JohnR
The link you posted didn’t work for me. Tried it twice.
You make a good point about technology. I don’t actually drive a car but am about to pass my test soon when I learn to drive. So I’m a Walker. And I’m often amazed at how many drivers I see with the head down looking at their phones.
Sorry, my statement was a bit broad brush. Probably in cities like london where bike commuters are more part of daily life, drivers would be a bit more wired to anticipate them aswell as the typical gang of teens on mountains bikes dressed in blank with no lights flying out in front of them . But yeah, certainly in my hometown I don’t think anyone is paying any special attention for cyclists
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Rouleur864
Just had a look, they have some nice stuff. I definitely want to try a Merino base layer and Merino socks
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JohnR
The link you posted didn’t work for me. Tried it twice.
You make a good point about technology. I don’t actually drive a car but am about to pass my test soon when I learn to drive. So I’m a Walker. And I’m often amazed at how many drivers I see with the head down looking at their phones.
I've fixed the link. The auto-linker was confused by the £" within the link so I've done it manually.
I've got a selection of merino socks with different thircknesses for use according to the temperature. Most are cycling specific (which tend to be tight) but for really cold weather I use https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/walking/footwear/walking-socks/merino-explorer-sock-p12512.aspx/ which are long enough to keep the lower legs warm. However, like other merino clothing the key benefit is the natural odour management so less need for washing. However, if they get wet then, like other wools, they take time to dry.
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Socks : whose tried....
Sealskinz or Merino wool
Yes, have both. There's lots of types and grades of merino, so it's like asking about cotton. My Sealskinz are over ten years old and don't get much use, I can't remember when i last wore them, the tech has moved on, mine don't reflect what's available now, either from Sealskinz or the alternatives. The couple of pairs of merino socks I have are just in the rotation in the sock draw, they're nice but I don't think I ever deliberately choose them. The waterproof socks I prefer are the Showers Pass ones, but I wouldn't choose to wear them unless they were really needed.
I was at one time a huge fan of merino, I have a fifteen year old Howies heavy base/mid layer, 100% merino and several different weights and weaves, it's a piece of art and still gets a lot of use. But I'm not sure I'd buy it again, there's way more choice now and when I do buy merino it's usually a blend, but I'm just as likely to buy one of the more modern synthetics, my long sleeve Paramo Parameta knocked the Howies off the top spot this last winter.
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I’m hoping this year to buy a variety of items and experiment
One of main goals is to try and reduce sweat buildup in socks and underwear mainly , but T-shirt too. Should be fun and interesting
I’m just wondering how I can try and get accurate analysis of the effects
Possibly I could take a shower , go ride for an hour then measure results . Then reshower and change materials (say from cotton to Merino) and repeat the same ride with hopefully near identical conditions .
They saw that the amount of water you drink and have in your body can effect how much you sweat or don’t sweat. So I’m wondering if I should too my body up with the water ive lost from the first ride before I do the second .but kinda doubtful of how much that will make a difference but who knows.
Maybe I could skip the water intake and then on another repeat the same experiment but start with the materials the other way round .
Monday - cotton first ride / merino second ride
Tuesday- merino first / cotton second
I could try and eat and drink similar quantities of food and drink and hopefully sleep . There are things that can effect your water levels like too much sodium/salt causing water retention. There are times when the body can dump large amounts of water out of your system when your diet changes
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Also maybe just try introducing one new piece of clothing at a time and see how it works alongside the other pieces
I know I will frustrate myself looking for perfection but I’m confident I can find something better than what I currently have and I’d be happy with that step towards perfection 😁, even if it’s 10% better it’s something , but I’m hoping for a lot more than that
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Paramo every time. It keeps you warm, dry and cool depending on which bit you wear and best of all when washed it dries very quickly on a line or back of a chair in the porch as I did with mt CICLO last night.
Tilley underwear but Paramo make similar items.
Handy for B&B touring
Finally invest in a comfortable saddle then you don't need those padded monstrosities which, from experience, take forever to dry.
(unless you are in a desert of course)
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British weather will do its best to mess up any attempt to be scientific. There's temperature, wind and humidity to consider. Humidity is often overlooked but can be a big factor influencing whether sweat accumulates or evaporates.
My approach is to study the weather forecast and try to remember which clothing, or combination of layers, will keep me warm enough with the possibility of removing a layer or more should I get too hot (I much prefer to be too warm than too cold). Zips, preferably full length, on tops can provide a wide range of ventilation as needed. There are also tops with removable arms and trousers which convert to shorts to help address the temperature range which can be encountered in an all-day ride.
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A few quick notes:
Conspicuity: +1 for Martin's recommendation on a reflective Sam Browne. I also use a simple reflective sash. I have a mesh vest with back-and-front reflective strips, but use this mainly for city riding, day & night. Basic mantra here, though, is: Never assume motorists will see you. Always assume they will not. (In 'Straya, they have a tidy abbreviation for the problem: SMDSY: "Sorry, mate didn't see ya!")
Jerseys: +1 for the recommendation (was it Julian's?) on Ground Effect clothing. I have several, and they're all well-made and durable. Not cheap, but their quality makes them v good value. My preferred item is the dual-fabric, comprising an inner layer of merino & an outer layer of polyester. Only drawback to this for me is that above about 26 degrees, I need something lighter.
Rain jackets: I prefer a jacket cut for cycling. (I have some excellent hiking and X-country skiing jackets, but they are usually bulkier/heavier than I want or need for cycling.) For 10-plus years, I've had a jacket made by MEC, and it still works well. BUT, it also weighs ~650 gms.
The top-of-line Showers Pass jacket has a good rep, but my next one will be from Ground Effect, here: https://www.groundeffect.co.nz/collections/mens-waterproof-shells/products/anti-cyclone-performance-cycling-jacket (https://www.groundeffect.co.nz/collections/mens-waterproof-shells/products/anti-cyclone-performance-cycling-jacket) This is lighter than my current jacket by half a pound or more, and lighter than the Showers Pass as well, for a comparable price.
I also use a variety of short- and longsleeved merino base & mid- layers, depending on the season. I've found Icebreaker to be the best. Nothing beas merino's breathability and its stinkproof quality.
Socks: My choice in socks is shaped by the fact that in the past 20 years, I've had two DVT blood clots, one in each leg. So, I'm now on Xarelto for the duration, and I've reconnoitred the market in calf-length compression socks.
From this POV, I have one categorical recommendation: The best socks I've ever worn are the over-the-calf-length merinos made by Swiftwick, in the U.S. I find these to be fabulously comfortable--nothing else even comes close. I've worn them by themselves in X-country skiing at -25 in Eastern Ontario, skating in similar temps, and underneath motorcycle boots (behind big BMW airhead cylinders) in the high deserts of the Western US, with temps in the high 30s. A decent second place are the merino/synthetic socks made by Ground Effect. These are more durable, and their footbed is quite comfortable too. BUT their calf structure is too short for me, and their elastic band at the top is far too narrow at about 2 cms, so they're nowhere near as comfortable. (Swiftwick's elastic band is 5 cms wide, and that makes all the difference.)
Swiftwick's over-the-calf merinos cost USD 35 a pair, so they're not cheap. They offer ankle-high merinos too, and these are good for cycling, if you don't need the compression offered by the calf-high version.
As for UK brands, Bridgedale is durable, but that's all. The Swiss firm, Sigvaris, offers a full merino hiking sock, as well as a light-weight merino, both in over-the-calf height. for me, they're a step behind Swiftwick.
Hope that's helpful, though I recognize that my circumstances/requirements shape my preferences.
Cheers, John
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The top-of-line Showers Pass jacket has a good rep, but my next one will be from Ground Effect, here: https://www.groundeffect.co.nz/collections/mens-waterproof-shells/products/anti-cyclone-performance-cycling-jacket (https://www.groundeffect.co.nz/collections/mens-waterproof-shells/products/anti-cyclone-performance-cycling-jacket) This is lighter than my current jacket by half a pound or more, and lighter than the Showers Pass as well, for a comparable price.
That's a nice looking jacket, the sleeve zips are novel and remind me that on my favourite jerseys and jackets I can push the sleeves up to dump some heat.
I don't think we've really covered it yet, but versatility is the key, I'd sacrifice a little of the waterproof ability for more usability when it's not pouring. Paramo Analogy gets close, but the bulk makes it awkward to carry when not being worn. Likewise base layers that can be mid, and of course when touring anything that functions just as well off the bike. Two small items that can make a big difference are arm warmers and gilets. I'm a recent convert to the gilet, now rarely ride without one, particularly at this time of year when the temperature can vary so much throughout the day.
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John Saxby mentioned socks.
I too have to wear compression socks for similar reasons as John. But I find these are actually great for doing sport in. The non-pinching over calf design of these support your muscles and help relieve fatigue in every day circumstances. Not only when riding bikes. I am lucky that my health insurance pay for two pairs of excellent fitted compression socks per year- but which otherwise cost around a hundred pounds a pair.
I also substitute these expensive socks with some very reasonably priced but inexpensive sport compression socks which offer good ankle and calf compression without pinching similar to these: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005001604256975.html?albpd=en1005001604256975&acnt=708-803-3821&aff_platform=aaf&albpg=539263010115&netw=u&albcp=1582410664&pvid=0f8b94fb-5e58-4ead-8020-1d109912bc82&sk=UneMJZVf&scm=1007.23534.124736.0&trgt=539263010115&terminal_id=a5fcdbccbb4a46089cf4a68cd403a356&needSmbHouyi=false&albbt=Google_7_shopping&src=google&crea=en1005001604256975&aff_fcid=7ca3b2d1a4d64a74ad0d906d9ff8ee30-1619082230818-00581-UneMJZVf&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI1I_Uo7-R8AIVi4zICh35AQTZEAQYASABEgIMQ_D_BwE&albag=59754279756&aff_fsk=UneMJZVf&albch=shopping&albagn=888888&isSmbAutoCall=false&aff_trace_key=7ca3b2d1a4d64a74ad0d906d9ff8ee30-1619082230818-00581-UneMJZVf&rmsg=do_not_replacement&device=c&gclsrc=aw.ds (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005001604256975.html?albpd=en1005001604256975&acnt=708-803-3821&aff_platform=aaf&albpg=539263010115&netw=u&albcp=1582410664&pvid=0f8b94fb-5e58-4ead-8020-1d109912bc82&sk=UneMJZVf&scm=1007.23534.124736.0&trgt=539263010115&terminal_id=a5fcdbccbb4a46089cf4a68cd403a356&needSmbHouyi=false&albbt=Google_7_shopping&src=google&crea=en1005001604256975&aff_fcid=7ca3b2d1a4d64a74ad0d906d9ff8ee30-1619082230818-00581-UneMJZVf&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI1I_Uo7-R8AIVi4zICh35AQTZEAQYASABEgIMQ_D_BwE&albag=59754279756&aff_fsk=UneMJZVf&albch=shopping&albagn=888888&isSmbAutoCall=false&aff_trace_key=7ca3b2d1a4d64a74ad0d906d9ff8ee30-1619082230818-00581-UneMJZVf&rmsg=do_not_replacement&device=c&gclsrc=aw.ds)
They are not as good as my prescription socks, but are still very good and supportive at a fraction of the price- and better than flight socks I've purchased at the chemists shop. I've even ordered the same for friends who wanted such socks for running in. They were also impressed with the compression and the price as well as the brighter colour ranges for those who want to make a statement or match to their hi-vis jacket 8)
I need to wear such long socks all year round for medical reasons. But they have an added advantage in the winter of also keeping feet and lower leg warm on colder days.