Spring Cycling Outfit Guide: What to Wear in 50-70°F

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Michael Litardo Mar 5, 2025 0 comments

Spring cycling in temperatures between 50-70°F can be tricky, but layering is the key to staying comfortable. Here's a quick breakdown:

Base Layer: Wicks moisture and regulates temperature. Use merino wool for cooler mornings (50-60°F) and synthetic mesh for warmer afternoons (65-70°F).
Mid Layer: Provides insulation. Choose thermal jerseys for cold starts and lightweight options as the day warms up.
Outer Layer: Protects against wind and rain. A breathable, windproof jacket or vest is essential for unpredictable weather.
Accessories: Arm/knee warmers, gloves, and toe covers for flexibility and warmth.

Quick Tips:

Start your ride feeling slightly cool to avoid overheating.
Adjust layers as temperatures change during your ride.
Stick to moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool and avoid cotton.

Use this guide to build the perfect cycling outfit for spring rides - comfortable, adaptable, and ready for changing conditions.

How I dress to ride in 50 degree weather

Spring Weather and Cycling

Cycling in spring, with temperatures between 50-70°F, requires thoughtful clothing choices. Using a layering approach, you can stay comfortable by adjusting to the changing weather conditions during your ride.

Riding in 50-70°F Weather

When riding in this temperature range, your clothing needs change as the day warms up. At 50°F, staying warm is key, so insulation is a priority. As the temperature rises closer to 70°F, you'll want lightweight, breathable layers to avoid overheating.

Temperature	Key Concerns	Suggested Base Layer

50-60°F Wind chill, early-morning cold Merino wool base layer 60-65°F Shifting temperatures Synthetic mesh base layer 65-70°F Risk of overheating Superlight mesh base layer

The Castelli Women's Pro Issue Short Sleeve Base Layer is an excellent choice for spring rides. It wicks moisture effectively, keeping you comfortable across a range of conditions. Pair it with mid-layers to help regulate your body temperature during the ride.

Smart Layering Basics

Layering for spring cycling is about choosing the right materials and combining them effectively. For example, the Perfetto RoS Light Women's Jersey by Castelli uses Gore-Tex Infinium 203 for water resistance and Nano Flex Light for breathability, making it a versatile option.

Here’s how different materials can work together to keep you comfortable:

Layer	Material	Purpose
Base	Merino wool/synthetic blend	Manages moisture and maintains temperature
Mid	Gore-Tex Infinium	Offers weather protection and breathability
Outer	Lightweight windproof fabric	Shields from wind and packs easily

"The basic layer system consists of a base layer for moisture-wicking, a mid-layer for insulation and breathability, and an outer layer for protection against wind and rain."

Testing your gear before heading out is crucial. Spend the first 15-20 minutes of your ride evaluating how your layers feel. This trial-and-error approach helps you fine-tune your setup, ensuring you stay comfortable no matter the weather.

Core Spring Cycling Clothes

Cycling in spring (50-70°F) calls for smart layering to stay comfortable and ready for changing conditions. Here's how to build your outfit for spring rides.

Base Layer Options

A good base layer is the foundation of your cycling kit. It helps regulate temperature and manage moisture. For example, the Ornot Merino Wool sleeveless base layer is great for breathability, while the Velocio Concept Merino Long Sleeve adds warmth for chilly mornings. Both options keep your core at the right temperature.

Temperature	Recommended Base Layer	Benefits
50-60°F	Velocio Concept Merino Long Sleeve	Keeps you warm, controls moisture
60-65°F	Ornot Merino Wool Sleeveless	Balances temperature, breathable
65-70°F	Synthetic mesh base layer	Ventilates well, dries quickly

These base layers are designed to handle moisture and temperature changes effectively. Next up: mid-layers to adjust to fluctuating conditions.

Mid-Layer Clothing

Mid-layers provide insulation and flexibility. Combine your base layer with:

A short-sleeve jersey for mild days
Thermal bib tights for cooler rides near 50°F
Arm warmers for unpredictable weather
Lightweight cycling shorts for temperatures above 65°F

Weather Protection Gear

Spring weather can be unpredictable, so having protective gear is a must. A lightweight windbreaker with a breathable back panel is perfect for blocking wind without overheating. Add these essentials:

Gear Type	Purpose	Temperature Range
Toe covers	Keeps feet warm	50-60°F
Short-finger gloves	Protects hands	60-70°F
Thermal gloves	Adds warmth	50-60°F
Lightweight cap	Shields from sun and wind	All ranges

How to Layer for Spring Rides

Spring cycling requires a smart approach to layering to stay comfortable in temperatures ranging from 50-70°F. The key is to create a system that adjusts easily as conditions change during your ride.

Starting Temperature Tips

Begin your ride feeling slightly cool. This way, as your body heats up, you won’t end up overheating. Using a combination of base, mid, and outer layers helps you stay comfortable as the weather shifts.

Managing Temperature Changes

Adjust your clothing as the temperature changes throughout your ride:

Cooler mornings (50-60°F):
- Wear a moisture-wicking base layer, like merino wool
- Add a thermal jersey for insulation
- Top it off with a lightweight, windproof vest or jacket
- Keep arm warmers nearby for extra flexibility
Warmer afternoons (60-70°F):
- Switch to a lightweight base layer with a short-sleeve jersey
- Have a wind-resistant vest ready for sudden breezes
- Use knee warmers in shaded or cooler areas to stay comfortable

Choosing the Right Fabrics

Stick to materials like merino wool or synthetic blends that wick sweat and dry quickly. Avoid cotton - it traps moisture, making it harder to regulate your body temperature.

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Shebeest Women's Cycling Wear

Shebeest

Shebeest focuses on creating cycling gear tailored for women, designed to perform effectively during spring rides by incorporating smart layering techniques.

Shebeest Product Features

The Bellissima and Sheena collections are made with breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics. They come in both race-fit and relaxed styles, offering flexibility for layering and built-in ventilation to help manage body temperature during fluctuating spring weather.

Feature	How It Helps During Spring Rides
Moisture-Wicking Fabric	Keeps you dry when temperatures shift
Multiple Fit Options	Allows for easy layering
Reflective Details	Improves visibility during early morning or evening rides
Ventilation Panels	Helps regulate body heat as the day warms up

Top Shebeest Products

Shebeest's lineup includes cycling jerseys ($70–$130) crafted from lightweight, breathable materials that are perfect for layering. Their shorts ($60–$120) provide compression support and comfort for long rides.

Some standout items:

Bellissima Jersey: Designed with moisture-wicking fabric, ideal for sunny spring rides.
Pro Bib Shorts: Made with temperature-regulating materials, these shorts handle changing conditions with ease.

Shebeest also offers arm warmers and lightweight caps that pair well with their jerseys and shorts, completing your spring cycling setup with ease.

Spring Riding Preparation

Getting ready for a spring ride involves more than just layering your clothes. Once you've chosen your gear, it's crucial to check everything beforehand to make sure you're prepared for the season's unpredictable conditions.

Test Your Gear on Short Rides

Try out different layer combinations during shorter rides to see how they perform. Starting your ride in cooler morning temperatures is a great way to test how your outfit handles warming conditions.

Temperature	Starting Layers	Adjustments During Ride
50-55°F	Base layer + jersey + light jacket	Remove jacket once warmed up
55-65°F	Base layer + jersey + arm warmers	Roll down arm warmers as needed
65-70°F	Light base layer + jersey	Unzip jersey for extra airflow

Once you've tested your setup, check the weather forecast to make any necessary adjustments.

Be Ready for Weather Changes

Local hourly forecasts are your best friend. Check for temperature, wind, and rain predictions before heading out. For longer rides, pack a lightweight, stowable windbreaker to stay prepared for sudden changes in weather.

Gear That Balances Performance and Comfort

Choose gear that keeps you comfortable and performs well under varying conditions. Look for features like:

Ventilation panels: Mesh zones placed in key areas for better airflow.
Adjustable features: Full-length zippers or convertible sleeves for on-the-go changes.
Convenient storage: Jerseys with easy-to-reach pockets for quick access to extra layers.

Dressing for Spring Cycling

Cycling in spring temperatures of 50-70°F calls for smart wardrobe choices that can handle changing conditions. Look for gear made with materials like synthetic fabrics or merino wool, as these excel at keeping you dry and comfortable by managing moisture and regulating temperature. Combine these essentials with quality women's cycling apparel, such as Shebeest's line, to create a reliable setup for your spring rides.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about spring cycling attire.

What should you wear for cycling in 50-degree weather?

Top Layers

A moisture-wicking sports bra
A short-sleeve jersey made from synthetic material or merino wool

Bottom Layers

Cycling shorts or bibs
Add leg or knee warmers for extra coverage

Accessories

Arm warmers for added flexibility
Short-finger gloves
Wool socks to keep your feet dry and comfortable

How can you handle temperature changes during spring rides?

Start your ride feeling slightly cool. Carry a lightweight, water-repellent jacket for unexpected weather shifts. Keep arm warmers and gloves in your jersey pockets for easy access when needed.