Castelli Spring Cycling Clothing Guide: Women’s
By Stan Portus – 24 March 2020
Many cyclists know that dressing for spring is a tricky affair. Get a head start on the weather with this guide to Castelli’s Women’s spring cycling kit.
We know you might not be doing as much cycling as you hoped this spring. But if you are getting out for some solo miles, this time of year presents some challenges in terms of what kit to wear.
Alongside Autumn, spring is one of the hardest times of year to dress for. Rides often begin with the temperature in single figures and even though the skies are clearer pockets of rain are never far away. Start preparing your cycling wardrobe with this guide to Castelli’s spring apparel.
Base Layer
Layering is the best way to prepare for riding in the spring, and what layers you choose should always start with the base layer. As the item closest to your skin it does the most work to keep you dry and comfortable. A base layer will keep your jersey and any other top layers functioning at their best too.
The Women’s Pro Issue Short Sleeve Base Layer is for the mild temperatures that characterise spring. The Women’s Pro Issue base layer will go practically unnoticed but will benefit your spring riding by wicking moisture away.
Mid Layers
In between days characterise spring, and the Perfetto RoS Light Women’s Jersey is for when its warm enough to venture out in a short sleeve cycling jersey but you still want some protection from any unexpected spring showers. The jersey uses Gore-Tex Infinium 203 for water repellency in the front body and sleeves, and Castelli’s unrivalled Nano Flex Light is used in the back for water resistance and great breathability.
Top Layers
Castelli Aria Shell Women's Jacket
View detailsThe Aria Jacket will keep you protected from nasty head and cross winds that knock a few degrees off the warm spring weather.
It is very different from the typical flappy old wind jackets. The front panel is windproof, but the sides and sleeves are made from a breathable, high stretch fabric meaning the jacket fits like a second skin. The jacket is light enough to wear for the duration of rides in mild spring weather but packs down incredibly small into its own pocket taking up minimal room in a jersey pocket or bike bag.
The Idro is the lightest fully waterproof jacket Castelli has ever made. Made with Gore-Tex Shakedry fabric rain will roll off the jacket no problem. The Gore-Tex fabric means the jersey is highly breathable too, so it will serve you well when its wet out and the temperature rises into the teens. The cut is women’s specific and a race fit. The Idro has a drop tail for extra cover, and long sleeves for comfort when riding on the drops.
Shorts
The Velocissima 2 Bibshorts offer excellent breathability and will keep you feeling drier in all conditions. The Endurance Evolution fabric provides just the right amount of compression to keep blood flow high and providing muscle support – ideal for cool, long spring rides. A flat-form waist construction and featherweight bib straps work together to accommodate a wide variety of body shapes. The Velocissima 2 is also available as a strapless short if you prefer to ride without the hassle of bib straps.
Warmers
Castelli Nano Flex 3G Arm Warmers
View details
Castelli Nano Flex 3G Knee Warmers
View detailsKnee and arm warmers are essential additions to your spring cycling wardrobe. The Nano Flex 3G Warmers provide warmth and are great in dry conditions, but the fabric’s tight weave and durable water repellent treatment will help keep things dry when you’re caught in the rain. Being able to put warmers on or take them off while out riding introduces adaptability into your cycling outfit and allows you to easily regulate body temperature according to any changes in the weather.
Accessories
The Toe Thingy 2 is perfect for when you want to cover up the front vents in your cycling shoes, but the temperature outside doesn’t require the bulk and insulation of an overshoe. The Toe Thingy 2 is made from neoprene that easily rolls over your shoe and has a rubberised bottom for durability. The top of the Toe Thingy stops short of the top ratchet on most cycling shoes making on the fly adjustments no hassle.
Castelli Perfetto RoS Light Gloves
View detailsNot quite warm enough for cycling mitts, not quite cool enough for thick gloves. The Perfetto Light Gloves are the perfect in-between. Made from Gore Infinium they provide protection from the wind and wet, but they are thin enough to keep things cool.
The Fresca Headband will keep your forehead and ears warm on cool days, with the added benefit of keeping hair in place and out of the way. The Thermoflex fleece provides warmth and wicks away moisture. The raw-cut edge minimises any rubbing under your helmet, and there is an opening at the back for a ponytail.
