It’s hard not to let your riding slip down the list of priorities as the winter lays claim to the land. With the rain, freezing temperatures and trails turned from golden, dust-covered beauties to ploughed up muddy affairs, it’s all too easy to leave the bike hidden away in the shed but with our winter cycling clothing guide, you can wrap up warm and get out there.

But what a shame to miss out on potentially the best part of the year, with quiet trails and crisp, clear days. And with just a few changes to your clothing setup, winter riding can be enjoyed, not endured. Experienced riders will understand the value of wise clothing choices, and I’ve drawn together, roughly in order of importance, the steps I take to beating off the cold.

Luckily, conditions don’t usually get that extreme in most of the UK, but still, you can never underestimate how seriously cold it can get. Getting cold is not pleasant so it’s crucial to be ready for the change in temperatures when you’re riding.

The weather can easily change in the time you’re out – the day may start fine and clear but if it turns while you’re in the middle of nowhere, adequate clothing is a good step to preventing hypothermia. Something easily forgotten but which can make a huge difference, the wind-chill factor needs to be taken into account. It may be 5°C outside, but travel at 20mph and you’re looking at an apparent temperature in the region of -15°C. Yikes!

Take a look through the gallery below for some ideas of what you need to be wearing when out on those chilly winter rides.