The Best Tights for Cold-Weather Cycling

When it comes to winter cycling, let’s face it: Some parts of the country have it worse than others. Even so, at some point, no matter where you live, it will get colder. It will get windier. It will get wetter. And that’s okay, as long as you’re prepared. A good pair of cold-weather tights tops the list of gear you must have to make the experience less uncomfortable. After all, your legs do the brunt of the work, so you should keep them happy.

First, think about where you spend your winters. Someone who lives in California, for example, might not need a fully insulated pair of tights, while folks who brave the frigid temps in the Northeast would be thankful for any protection against the cold and wind. Where you live will determine what you should prioritize.

Water-resistant coatings: Usually called DWR (durable water repellent), this treatment keeps light drizzle and road spray from soaking through your clothing. But it’s not fully waterproof. And it can wear out over time and must be reapplied.

Wind-proofing: One of the most intolerable of all winter annoyances is frigid wind. There’s almost no escaping it. If you’re the type who braves it all, look for tights with a wind-proof fabric such as Gore’s Windstopper. But if you don’t go out in more than a chilly breeze, you can get away with wind-resistant tights or those with wind-proof panels only in certain areas.