Cycling Leg Warmers

In the UK, I wear leg warmers during most months of the year. When training it is better to be too hot than too cold. In practice good leg warmers will not overheat that much, as they are very breathable. Leg warmers are also good for warming up for a race. Also, for some early season races, you are better off using legwarmers rather than risking getting cold muscles. I recommend choosing leg warmers that have a zip at the bottom so it is easy to take off over your cycling shoes.

Highly Recommended Water Resistant Legwarmers

Castelli Nanoflex Legwarmer

These are not cheap. They cost around £44, which is more than double some legwarmers. However, as well as being warm, comfortable and light, they offer excellent water resistance. I like using these on both rainy and dry days. See full review of Castelli Nanoflex I would buy again. Note, may not fit if you have short and powerful legs!

• Castelli Nanoflex legwarmers at Wiggle

A cheaper alternative to the Castelli Nanoflex is the Sportful No-Rain Legwarmers which promise similar product, but at £33.

Specialized Leg Warmers

I have been using specialized leg warmers for 3 years. I bought two pairs. They are very comfortable and fit very nicely. When riding you hardly feel they are there. They are a little on the light side, so excellent for spring weather. For cold conditions you will need something warmer. Will fit the shorter stockier rider, but, also fit well on me. However, I do need to put under cycling shorts to stop them slipping down.

Specialized leg warmers at Evans Cycles – 327.99

For really adverse weather conditions you might like to choose the

Gore Windstopper Soft Shell

Gore Windstopper Soft Shell III Leg Warmers – £34.99. They are fairly waterproof; but beware that goretex is less breathable than lycra.

Assos Roubaix Leg warmers

Quite expensive at £35.99. You are paying a little for the brand name. Although, they are warmer than standard leg warmers.

• Assos Roubaix leg warmers -buy now at Wiggle

Endura Thermalite Leg Warmers

Better value at £19.99. A combination of lycra for warmer temperatures and brushed Roubaix lining for colder conditions

• Endura Thermalite Leg warmers

A good pair of cycling leg warmers is one of the most useful items of cycling clothing. Leg warmers are suitable for anything between 5 degrees and 17 degrees. Most are made out of lycra which is easy to wash, and is quick drying in rain. They can also be useful for early season races, especially if you haven’t got round to shaving your legs yet.

If you are likely to be taking them off an on, look for a leg warmer with zip at bottom, other wise you will have to take off your cycling shoes at the same time. When warming up for a race, it is very useful to have a zipped leg warmer.

Endura Thermal Leg Warmer. A lightweight fleeced lined lycra leg warmer – £19.99

Cheapest Leg Warmers

One of the cheapest leg wamers is the dhb Merston Legwarmer at only £13.99. Ideal for warmer months when you just want a basic layer to keep knees warm. dnb Merston Legwarmers

• Leg warmers category at Wiggle.co.uk

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