Winter Gravel clothing guide

Winter gravel riding in the UK is not about surviving heroic conditions. It's about having the right kit so you can keep showing up. Cold, wet, and muddy rides are part of the season. The gear that works is the gear that lets you ride comfortably without thinking about it.

We asked Ribble staff and the Outliers what they actually wear when they head out in February. No marketing speak, just honest guidance on kit that performs.

Layers That Work
Winter riding is about managing temperature, not battling it. You'll be cold at the start and warm twenty minutes in. The right layers help you regulate without stopping to strip off or add on.

Base layer: Merino or technical fabric that moves moisture away from your skin. Long sleeve, close fitting. This is your foundation.

Mid layer: A thermal jersey or lightweight insulated jacket. Something that keeps warmth in but lets sweat out. You'll wear this most of the time.

Outer layer: A weatherproof jacket for wind and rain. Breathable, packable, and something you can layer over everything else when conditions turn.

Tip from the Ribble Outliers: Start slightly cold. If you're warm at the door, you'll be overheating within ten minutes.

Hands and Feet
Your extremities suffer first in the cold. Get these wrong and the ride becomes miserable fast.

Gloves: Winter gloves with windproof backing and enough insulation to keep your fingers working. Full finger, obviously. Some riders prefer lobster mitts for really cold days.

Socks: Merino wool socks, mid to high cut. Avoid cotton. Your feet will get damp from sweat regardless, but merino keeps them warm.

Overshoes: Neoprene shoe covers for anything below 8 degrees. They keep the wind out and add a layer of insulation. Mudguards help too by keeping spray off your feet.

Tip from Ribble staff: If your toes go numb, your shoes might be too tight. Loosen them slightly to improve circulation.

Head and Eyes
Cold air and wet roads mean you need to protect your face and keep your vision clear.

Neck tube or buff: Essential. Pull it up over your nose and mouth on cold descents, drop it down when you're working hard. Simple and effective.

Cap or headband: Under your helmet for extra warmth. A thin cap works for most UK winter conditions.

Eyewear: Clear or light tinted lenses for low light and spray. Anti-fog coating helps but won't solve everything. Some riders prefer nothing at all in heavy rain.

Tip from the Outliers: A peaked cap keeps rain off your face better than a headband. Small detail, big difference.

Lights
February means short days and low visibility. You need to see and be seen.

Front light: Minimum 400 lumens for unlit lanes and gravel tracks. More if you're riding technical terrain in the dark.

Rear light: Bright, flashing, and positioned where drivers can see it. Consider a helmet mounted rear light for extra visibility.

Tip from Ribble staff: Charge lights the night before. Dead batteries end rides early.

Final Word
The best winter kit is the kit you'll actually wear. It needs to work with the riding you do and the conditions you face. Get the basics right and February gravel stops feeling like a battle. It just becomes riding.

Winter kit gets you out the door. The right bike keeps you there. Our ULTRA-GRIT and ALLGRIT ranges are designed for UK conditions: mudguard mounts, tyre clearance, and stable geometry for wet gravel. Check out the range below