There’s a chill in the air, the days are getting shorter and the leaves are dropping, Autumn is here.
Time to put some of the ultralight kit back in the wardrobe and get the layers out. The in between seasons can be difficult to dress for, early morning starts at sub 10°C temperatures with dew on the ground can turn into 20°C, blazing sun and bone dry, similarly an overcast morning can lead to heavy showers and a big drop in temperature.
With that in mind we’ve put together some suggestions for different weather conditions you might find this autumn, with the roads a little quieter and the changing colours of the seasons it’s a perfect time to get some big miles in before winter comes.
10-20°C DRY/MIXED
When the ride involves big changes in temperature it’s important to maintain a stable temperature around your core. With the breathability of the Fiandre Light NoRain SS you can keep riding in it even as the temperature picks up a little. The WindShield front panels will block any wind chill when descending or going into the shade whilst the NoRain fabric repels any road spray or autumn showers. Matched up with the armwarmers you have continued protection that can be packed in your pocket should the sun really come out.
The Fiandre Bibshorts have a lightly fleeced inner fabric that maintains warmth but the breathable NoRain thermal also has excellent breathability and again some water repellency to keep you dry and warm. The BodyFit Pro Team Jersey is our slightly heavier weight Pro level kit which has been a favourite for those riding the classics, perfect for mixed conditions.
5-15°C DRY/MIXED
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With cooler weather it’s important to stay warm, cooling down can sap energy from your body and starts shutting down extremities such as your hands or feet, making it difficult to keep pedaling or maintain control of the bike. With that in mind, it’s good to make sure every part of you is protected from the cold air.
The Fiandre Light WS Jacket features an all-over Gore® Windstopper® fabric that blocks the cold air and maintains body heat below without getting overheated, if the weather turns rainy it’s NoRain DWR will shrug off the showers. With three rear pockets it also allows you to access all your ride necessities without reaching under the jacket and letting cold air in. A BodyFit Thermal LS Jersey adds a little fleece lined insulation while the Fiandre Team Bibtights use our NoRain Thermal fabric to keep heat in and water out should the weather change. If the weather is less changeable you could also swap the the jacket & jersey for our Fiandre Light Wind Jersey which features Windstopper® and insulation in one. Windstopper® accessories complete the protection making sure your hands and feet don’t go numb.
0°C – 15°C WET
FIANDRE EXTREME NEOSHELL® JACKET
If you are a wet weather warrior, you will know that there’s always a danger wearing waterproof jackets that you will end up wet from the inside out!
Fortunately with Polartec® NeoShell® that certainly isn’t the case. The Fiandre Extreme NeoShell® Jacket is fully seam sealed, waterproof, windproof and highly breathable making it the perfect choice for the worst of autumn weather. With a close race fit it won’t hinder your aerodynamic performance either. The Fiandre NoRain Bibtights feature an additional spoiler of NoRain fabric above the saddle to block both wheelspray and the water running off your back. Keeping your extremities warm when it rains is vital, our Fiandre Gloves are built with OutLast® for complete water protection and our Speedskin Silicone Booties will keep the spray off your feet while the Gruppetto Wool Socks maintain warmth, even if they end up getting a little damp.
So now you know what kit to wear whatever the condition, you’ve no excuses…
Enjoy your Autumn rides!
Photos: Poci’s, Taylor Tulip Close
Riders: Matteo Tosatto, Paul Whitfield, Andrew Syme, Giulia Candiago, Michele Cortella