5 Best Winter Cycling Jerseys Long sleeves
Your winter cycling jersey strategy when intense cycling in cold, damp, wet conditions is about striking the right balance between base layer, mid-layer, and outer shell depending on the prevailing conditions and duration of the ride. It’s a delicate balancing act that cyclists don’t always get right, which is why winter cycling jersey strategies require some flexibility and on-road adaptability. Technical and breathable fabrics go some way to achieving this as they widen the range of tolerance of the garment, but even the best winter cycling jersey will not suit all winter conditions. This means a layering strategy where the winter cycling jersey long sleeves is combined with a base layer and outer shell will be essential to ensure adequate control of your personal environment. For temperatures under 10 degrees celsius, factoring in wind chill you’ll most likely need 3 layers, at 10 degrees celsius to about 15 degrees celsius a 2/3 layer strategy with the flexibility to switch up or down layers while on the road. This means carrying garments/layers that can easily be stowed in your winter cycling jersey back pockets or notwithstanding that a lightweight cycling bag. You can read more about base layers and outer shells on the site but in this article, we are focussing on your winter cycling jersey, typically your mid-layer.
What factors should consider when buying a winter cycling jersey?
- Check that your cycling jersey is long enough so that your lower back is not exposed so it will stay warm, especially when down on the drops.
- Look for an elasticated waist gripper, ideally with sticky strips so the jersey can l around the top of your shorts, ensuring your lower back is not exposed to the elements.
- Look for a tall, turtle neck collar that zips right up to under your chin so keep your next warm and stop it being exposed to the elements.
- Check the sleeves are long enough to protect your wrists from windchill and thumb loops can introduce some handy additional weather protection.
- A front zip is essential as it makes it easier to get tight jerseys on and off and it is a handy thermoregulator. Ensure there is a good size baffle behind the zip to keep the wind-chill at bay.
- Zipped vents. These are a nice to have, rather than essential, but allow for some additional on-the-go thermoregulation.
- Reflective strip. Being seen is a key element of road safety for a cyclist, especially in winter when you are more likely to be riding in the dark or low light conditions.
- Pockets. I think three back pockets is a minimum for a winter jersey, given what you need to carry during this seaon. I also think a zippable side pocket is essential too for a bank card and or emergency cash.
5 Best Winter Cycling Jerseys Long sleeves

