Cold weather layering Question

[michaelcole]

Same as what you would wear for winter hiking in the wind. Base layer under a little insulation with a wind layer on top. You'll generate plenty of heat you just need to keep the wind from stealing it. You'll also need good gloves and some knee or leg warmers.

[onegeardoug]

I just moved here in August from Tempe Arizona, so if there's a fair weather biker in the crowd, I should be in the running for the prize. With that said, I did a lot of riding this winter and have a pretty good idea of what to wear when it's cold. Coincidently, 35 degrees is one of my thresholds for temperature and layers. If it's below 35 and going to stay there, I wear: thick AMPHIB tights with bib shorts underneath, wool hiking socks, AMPHIB booties, 2 long sleeve base layers, 1 long sleeve jersey (full-zip is key!), wind vest with perf back, Sub-zero gloves and UnderArmor thermal skull cap. The wind vest comes off pretty quickly, so as not to overheat. The key to staying warm in the cold is to not overdress and start sweating. I find that any "wind" jacket, breathable or not, is generally too warm and causes me to sweat.

For base layers, I have a mixture of cycling and camping base layers from Voler, REI and Patagonia in long sleeve, short, and sleeveless. I think having a wide variety for all occassions is one of the keys to finding a comfortable amount of clothing regardless of the temperature.

Good luck.

[onegeardoug]

I just realized that you asked about Wells Ave, which I now remember is a crit in Newton. In that case...I would wear a little less than I recommended, perhaps regular thickness tights, thinner gloves and perhaps one less base layer.