What to wear, fall riding

You can get the full-length tights either padded or unpadded, bib or draw-string.

Personally, I have a few pair of the draw-string unpadded tights, and I just wear those over top of regular bike shorts. One benefit of this approach is that I don't need to wash the tights after every ride.

When it gets down to 20-25F, I put on a second layer of tights.

I like Pearl Izumi AmFib tights when it is cold from 20-45. They have wind/water proof front so they keep the wind and cold off. I also wear them running when it is under 25.

Above that they are to hot for me. I have Pearl Izumi Thermalfleece tights that are lighter without windproofing that I wear. Then last year I scored a great deal on my favorite brand Shebeest tights with one of my favorite chamois that I wear in the 45-60 range.

For me riding in fall/winter is all about wind. If the wind gets to my body I'm cold. I have 6-7 fall/winter jackets as different weather conditions need different clothing. I have 4 different types of glooves and different hats to wear under my helment...under armour works great.

The best jackets I have are made from Gore Bike Wear. Performance and Nashbar carry them but offer more for men than women. I have a jacket that is fully wind proof.  Passion Lady jacket with zip off arms. When it is really cold I wear this over a Pearl Izumi barrier jacket. Another favorite of Gore is Xenon jacket that is wonderful with pit zips and tight fitting perfect for a tri in the 40's. Honestly anything by Gore Bike Wear is the highest quality and rocks! I have a rain jacket from Gore as well...works great with a drop tail. Their stuff is pricey but often you can get a great deal on line.

I ride if it is above 20 and the key is to have proper clothing. I rode all winter but one stretch of 10 days last year and I live in MA. I love riding in the fall and winter but need to feel comfortable.

Spring for the Assos Winter Glove System and the Assos booties. Yeah, they're stupid expensive, but get them and try them. It will change your winter riding.

My fall setup, i.e. down to about 40-50F, consists of a Descente thermal base layer, my regular cycling jersey, arm warmers, and Assos gloves--either liners plus gloves or just the gloves. For the legs, it's warm knickers with a little Freddy's choice Warmup Xtra on the legs, or my PI thermal bib tighs (padded). Assos booties.

When it gets really cold, I add a PI amfib/thermafleece jacket and wear the tights. Extra cold days get the Craft WindStopper briefs under the tights. The Assos mitts go over the gloves, and the feet get a nice pair of warm wool socks under the booties. Oh, and a balaclava for the head.