Dressing for the outdoors is a constant challenge of managing variables: temperature, wind, precipitation, and for those dedicated to really getting their blood pumping in the cold, level of intensity. When it comes to endurance sports in cold weather—whether it’s running, cycling, nordic skiing, or alpine touring—I always think of a piece of advice my dad gave me as a foolhardy teen more focused on looking cool than dressing practically, “If you’re not cold when you start, you’ll be hot as soon as you get going.”
This simple but sticky piece of advice has served me well over the years as I transitioned from snowbound runs in heavyweight hoodies to breathable baselayers. And I remembered it when I set out for a sub-freezing ride in Rapha’s Pro Team GORE-TEX Infinium Jersey ($217). Clipping in, I was cold. The jersey lacks any insulation, and I wore just a wool baselayer t-shirt underneath. But as I pedaled toward the veritable non-stop criterium course that is Brooklyn’s Prospect Park loop, the reliable warmth kindled by moderate effort slowly began to build.