ive been experimenting with a few different outfits for bikepacking and general riding and thought i'd write up my notes
cold weather riding
you need to think about both on-bike and off-bike. on bike your problem may actually be staying cool, off bike you will rapidly cool off especially if your clothes are sweaty. layering is always ideal so you can adjust as needed
on bike
- windbreaker and synthetic or wool base layer works down to around 20F, maybe even a bit lower
- above freezing i've gotten away with a base layer and cotton flannel outer layer
- above 40F just the flannel is fine
- i'm a big guy and carry plenty of natural insulation, smaller people may need to dress warmer
off bike
- be prepared to change into dry clothes
- tshirt, flannel shirt and down vest works down to about freezing, below that either a base layer or an outer layer is needed
- sleeping bag temperature ratings assume you're wearing a warm base layer and hat, you will be more comfortable with them
- bring raingear based on forecast, in a pinch its better than nothing as an outer layer / windbreaker
warm weather riding
obviously more forgiving than cold weather! for me, a pasty white guy, my too priority is sun protection, then staying cool
on bike
- always padded shorts or bibs
- just a tshirt is fine, more sunscreen needed
- cycling jersey + sun sleeves is good, keeps you cool and you do genuinely go faster with less wind resistance
- venilated button up sun shirt with no undershirt - absolutely my top pick. keeps you cool, less sunscreen needed, and you can walk into a store or restaurant without looking too out of place. only downside is it sucks in the wind
off bike
- you probably already know how to dress yourself outdoors. bring a full brim hat
- don't forget that warm days can still have cold nights