Base layers for cold rides?

[Bleacher Creature]

With the weather getting colder, I figured I'd ask to see what folks do for cold rides. I commute about 25 miles RT each day, and it's starting to drop into the 20s and 30s in the morning. My problem is that if I bundle up too much, I need to stop at least once to peel off layers. I've tried the Uniqlo heat tech tops, but it's hard to tell if they really help as they're so thin.

What do others do?

[hlthe2b]

1. I walk 4-6 miles every morning before full sunrise and last week was zero-8 degrees.

So, while I can't speak directly to the specific differences with cycling, I walk hills so I do build up some sweat even just walking. So for me, a breathable technical dual-ply first layer that wicks and a minimum of one fleece (or a second one if there is wind or near zero temps) and a wind-proof layer or goretex depending on precipitation. A scarf that can be pulled over my face, an ear-covering headband and a thick knit under-glove with a pair of deerskin-fleece mittens on the coldest days. I usually wear my winter-proof reflective bill Nike baseball cap under the headband as the bill keeps a lot of icy snow and wind out of my eyes. I'd bet both of those issues are important for you on a bike. I wear wool tights under my pants on coldest days and that seems to suffice.

You may not be experiencing the same extremes, but a single layer fleece over a technical wicking layer ought to work. Add a windproof jacket if windy or an insulated vest otherwise.

I'll be curious about what more specific advice you get to the contrary...

[ret5hd]

2. I don't bike, but hike. 30+ lb pack, moderate terrain.

Feet: wool socks
Legs: light wool under layer, synthetic pants (my legs don’t really seem to get cold down to about 20F)
Upper:Light wool t-shirt, mid weight long sleeve wool t-shirt, long sleeve synthetic shirt, synthetic breathable hoodie, then a very thin very light windbreaker.
Head/neck:wool buff, wool watch-cap

If I start getting warm, I unzip the windbreaker. Still warm, I unzip the hoodie. Still warm, I stuff the cap in a pocket.

In the 20s, that’s generally as far as I need to go.

[2naSalit]

3. Both posts 1 & 2 above are great advice.

I lived @ 7000ft for many years and I skied a lot. Best to wear layers you can peel. Windproof is essential, avoid cotton for base as it retains moisture so the technical base layers are best. Find what you like, most are pretty good. Be sure to keep your ears covered. And a neck gator is best since it can't fall off.

I fluctuate between light wool to light silk or capilene or heavy wool/silk blend for sub zero. After that, whatever makes an insulation layer between the base and a shell will do. Ventilation is something to consider so you don't get wet. , My favorite ski outer jacket is a med. fleece with zippered vents that unzip most of the way down the under side of the sleeves. My favorite temps for skiing (Xcountry, any style) is 0F - +27F. I am not fond of fighting wind though.