Encove Blog

In the British weather you can’t be sure about anything but one thing you have to be ready for at all times is a sudden cold snap. Unfortunately, dressing in cycle wear for every possibility that the weather can deliver isn’t really possible if you need to stay lean and sleek – you would end up with so many layers on you would be hardly able to pedal. Arm warmers and leg warmers are the answer and they are certainly worth taking with you whenever you go out training because they fold up small enough to go into a pocket and yet will keep you warm if the weather turns.

Some people economise on cycling clothing by buying short sleeved cycling tops for all year and finishing them off for colder weather with arm warmers and a gilet. This is a very good plan if you need to keep the costs of your cycling equipment down as you are still covered for every eventuality. Arm and leg warmers are usually made from a mixture of nylon and spandex, to give excellent warmth and also guaranteeing a tight fit. They spring back into shape once they have been washed and dry almost instantly, so you don’t really need more than one pair.

Arm and leg warmers come in a whole host of primary colours and if you are running a team on a budget, the use of the warmers in the team livery would be a good way of co-ordinating your team. You can get all different sizes from extra small on up and so even the slimmest person can have a good tight fitting arm or leg warmer. A good close fit is part of how arm and leg warmers work, so measure carefully before ordering; although not as expensive as buying a whole garment, they are still not cheap and they are – quite rightly – non returnable once they have been worn. Some people have found that arm and leg warmers are a good thing to wear before setting out on a ride and popping on as soon as it finishes. This is good practice if the weather is cold and you have just warmed up with exercise, because it can stop cramps and chilling, perhaps even having an effect as much as 24 hours later with reduced aches and pains, especially at the start of the season.

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