Staying cool, or staying warm, is a question of wearing the correct type of clothing. Many think that less heat - more clothes is the answer, yet the wrong clothing can be counterproductive in you quest for warmth. We explain all you need to know regarding the three layers of clothing guaranteed to keep you warm or cool.

Wicking base layers

These are the "next to the skin layers" which play a major part in your comfort. They keep your skin dry and free from perspiration. To do this they have to be made of fabrics that "wick" - pull moisture away from your skin by capillary action so that it can evaporate on the outside of the fabric or pass through other layers. Base layers can also provide insulation.

The traditional role of mid layers is to keep us warm by trapping our own heat and using it for insulation. Fleece is an effective insulator with a high warmth to weight ratio. Different thickness of fleece provide different levels of insulation with thicker being warmer. Using fleece with different characteristics - stretch, windproofing, wicking and water resistance you can create a micro climate around your body to suit every type of cycling.

This layer defends us from the elements allowing the other layers to work effectively. These garments provide the ideal balance of weatherproofing and breathability. they are also exceptionally durable and often totally windproof.