Autumn is all about changeable weather and temperature - days that start cold and get warm as the sun comes up, rain that sweeps in unexpectedly, and darker evenings which leave you finishing your ride in cooler conditions, in lower light. There’s a lot to think about in autumn, and finding the right combination of kit to keep you warm, dry and comfortable is no mean feat.
IN GEAR FOR AUTUMN - READ OUR GUIDE
As the oranges of Autumn intensify, it's not long before poor weather shakes leaves from trees. Stay a step ahead and make sure you're geared up to ride though the changing season with our Pro Insight Guide from our Founder. Lire l’article today.
One of the main things that autumn kit needs to deliver on is versatility. Versatility is a key consideration in our design process, as we think about how to design a garment that can be removed and carried easily at different times on the same ride. Things like; Arm Jambières Et Manchettes, Leg Jambières Et Manchettes, and Coupe-vent Sans Manches - they all need to be packable and light at the same time as protective, whilst staples like Maillots and Bibs need to be developed to offer extra thermal protection.
With that in mind, here are the five key items I’d recommend for your wardrobe this autumn:
1. THE Pro Therma Maillot
I love this maillot. I have raced many cold races in it and I always feel like it’s got my back. It keeps my core cocooned in a little warm protective capsule, even in the harshest conditions, while at the same time not making me overheat.
This maillot was designed to be fully thermal and waterproof using our special 4 way stretch bonded Leonard (therma tex) material. This means this garment can keep you warm while remaining thin enough to fit easily in your standard maillot pocket – ideal if you need to take it off mid ride.
Recommended: the Le Col Pro Therma Maillot
2. THE Pro Long Sleeve Maillot
A long sleeve maillot is perfect for autumn mornings when you know it’s set to stay cooler for most of the day. Those kind of days mean that you can put on a long sleeve without a fear that you might overheat. In our Aqua Zero long sleeve, the material is very breathable, soft and warm on the inside, so it works with your exercise intensity to balance temperature out during the course of a ride.
A long sleeve Maillot can be used in combination with a number of other garments like short or long-sleeved undervests, Coupe-vent Sans Manches and Therma maillots - to cater for more inclement weather. It’s also a good idea to select a long sleeve maillot which has large pockets, so that you can carry everything you need on long varied climate rides.
Recommended: The Pro Aqua Zero Long Sleeve Maillot.
3. The Pro Therma Coupe-vent
A coupe-vent is designed to be a simple solution to keeping the core of your body warm. If it’s made of thermal and waterproof fabric (like our Therma Coupe-vent), then it’ll be perfect for trapping heat where you need it most, while remaining a light and packable garment.
I’d recommended that you never leave the house without either a coupe-vent or something like a Therma maillot, as they will just give you that extra level of security during rides that you may find colder or wetter than planned.
It’s perfect for the start of a ride, while you’re warming up and building your body temperature. Or equally it’s a great item to pull on at the top of a climb, to keep the body temperature even as you descend. It then can re-packed into your pocket for the rest of the ride.
Recommended: The Pro Therma Coupe-vent
5. Arm and Leg Jambières Et Manchettes
Arm and leg jambières et manchettes are an important set of items in anyone’s wardrobe, and especially at this time of year. They are perfect to take on and off throughout a ride, and can be easily stowed when not in use.
They can be worn with summer maillots, Therma maillots and also used in conjunction with long sleeves and vestes when the weather gets even colder. Contrary to what you may think, arm jambières et manchettes can be worn very effectively with winter vestes to help keep your hands warm when it gets colder in deeper winter. For now though, they are a great transition garment for autumnal climes.
Recommended: Le Col Arm Jambières Et Manchettes and Le Col Leg Jambières Et Manchettes
I hope that's helped you make a few wardrobe decisions for the season ahead,
Happy riding,