Stay Dry, Stay Fly 🌧🚲💅

From gawjus waterproofs to Granny’s old scarf, here’s our guide to looking your best while cycling in the winter, from Ray Hopkinson.

5 min readFeb 12, 2021

@rayhopkinson writing for Thank You For Cycling

At least one good thing happened in 2020. Millions of people took up cycling, however the grey, damp mizzle of winter can make getting on your bike (or even leaving the house) somewhat uninviting.

I know this all too well. When I started cycling in the summer, I was surprised to find it so practical, let alone freeing, but I’ve definitely struggled a few times cycling in the rain, and recently even had to lock up my bike and resort to taking the train, as I was getting so soaked. I wasn’t wearing the right gear…

But looks matter

Thankfully, I’ve learned there are only a few simple things you’ll need to keep you warm and dry, without breaking the bank (or requiring head-to-toe lycra).

1. A good waterproof is key — just be sure to get one with a hood. From small, packable macs to eco-friendly softshell, the price range for waterproofs is wide, but trust me — if there’s one thing worth investing in, it’s a truly reliable, long-lasting, waterproof coat. Here are my top picks.

Rains are a personal favourite. They’re super durable and good quality.
Maium provide a good, certified planet-friendly option. They’re made from recycled plastic bottles. Looks matter, and these come in some loverrrrly colours.
Muji provides a shorter option, but this only makes it cuter. This, and its eco organic cotton make it a win-win.
Tretorn are another favourite, made from 100% recycled polyester.
Proviz iridescent waterproofs are ace and not too pricey.
Carhartt are an undeniable classic, and you can’t go wrong with them. They’re built to last, and should see you happily cycling through many winters.
Hjul outerwear is designed with cycling in mind and features some great fabrics like waxed cotton.
The People’s make traditional cycle ponchos for a really good price. (Use the code TYFCPEOPLES at the checkout for 10% discount

2. Layers are your friend. You generate your own warmth when cycling, so wearing multiple thin layers that can be unzipped is a great way to help control your temperature. We’re all aware of the problem — stepping out of the door is nigh-on impossible without swathing yourself in cosiness, but after 10 minutes cycling you’ve gone four shades redder. Easily fixed with a zip, buttons or buckles.

3. Gloves are also a necessity and, ideally, you want waterproof ones. Your hands are right into the wind, so keep them toasty and ready for your brakes. If you need to check your route, typing gloves are widely available.

4. A really good hoodie. The humble hoodie is just as great for cycling as it is for lounging. They’re perfect for layering and fit snugly under helmets on extra-cold days. The good news is, you’ll most likely already have a hoodie in your wardrobe. Let it see daylight.

6. Thermals/Fleece. I have to admit that Uniqlo Heattech is a lifesaver. Uniqlo certainly has some way to go in using more sustainable materials, but these last really well, which goes some way to making up for this, and will keep you cosy and warm. This Patagonia recycled polyester fleece gaiter is also a great way to keep you extra snug but any scarf will do. On safer ground for the eco-conscious, this Patagonia recycled polyester fleece gaiter is a great way to keep you extra snug, or any old scarf will do the trick.

7. Hat — I thoroughly recommend wearing a hat for keeping the rain out of your face. A baseball cap or beanie works a treat.

8. Sturdy Creps. No outfit is complete without a good pair of shoes. True for life, true for cycling. Breathable waterproof shoes are crucial for cycling in comfort. There’s nothing worse than having cold, wet feet that squelch at every pedal. Look for shoes that are water-resistant e.g. made with Gore-Tex or leather.

9. Go preloved. Before parting with your hard-earned cash, have a rifle through your wardrobe — likely you’ll have a lot of the above already tucked away at home. If past-you has failed to provide, it’s well worth having a browse on preloved sites such as Ebay or Depop, or your local charity shop when they’re back open. You can often find great pre-loved “activewear” that won’t cost the earth — literally or metaphorically.

Ray Hopkinson is a Creative Partner at Hubbub. She lives in Clapton with her housemates and is a big believer in win-win sustainability. @rayhopkinson

That sums up our top tips for weatherproof cycling. If you’ve got any tips for keeping cosy on your bike, we’d love to hear them. Keep warm, keep dry, and mostly importantly, keep cycling.