8 best men’s autumn cycling tops, from jerseys to gilets

If there is a piece of clothing that sums up the needs of autumnal cyclists, it is this one: somehow both incredibly light and astonishingly well-insulated, it is perfect for the days that awkwardly hover between jacket and jersey weather. Somehow this gilet will keep you the perfect temperature; just enough heat stays in, and rain bounces off it like magic. Plus, if you get too warm, the zip opens up, or it can be easily rolled up and stashed away in a jersey pocket. Autumn demands versatility, and this has that and so much more.

This jacket feels built for the British autumn: it's perfect for keeping the rain out, but on those days where the sun is still shining, you won’t get too hot. It's incredibly light, so you’ll barely notice it when stuffed in a pocket on the off chance of a downpour, but it’s astonishingly good at keeping out water. It also looks very sleek, with a hint of transparency that lets your jersey show through and a high vis orange colour, which is easy to spot. 

Autumn can leave you switching between different jerseys – long-sleeved options can often be too hot, but short ones can leave you too cold. This one, however, solves these problems by using a fabric that is somehow warming even in a short sleeve, but never too hot; chunky but never too much. If you're not ready to surrender defeat to winter and start covering up your sleeves, this will let you do so in snug warmth.

There's a reason Gore-Tex has become synonymous with rain and keeping it out. The technology is astonishingly good at keeping water out and warmth in without leaving you hot or sweaty. The thermo in the name is not misplaced because this is cosy and fleecy, and definitely one for cold autumn nights. But it's still light, breathable and fits (very) snugly, so you won't feel like you've made any compromise in terms of speed.

Many long sleeve jerseys tread a difficult line between being too thin and cold and too thick and warm. MAAP's training jerseys achieve the perfect compromise, not just in terms of temperature but fit and arguably price, too. Plus, they're beautifully designed, with striking details and a cut that will make you feel both comfortable and classy throughout your ride.

Cycling clothing for the autumn months is often incredibly expensive – if jerseys weren't pricey enough, then the extra fabric and technologies needed for a comfortable season often push it towards the wincingly expensive. Thankfully, Decathlon's jerseys – like much of its cycling gear – are an antidote to that, offering warmth and comfort an affordable price point, and this RC100 long sleeve jersey is the perfect example. 

A base layer can be valuable all year round, but it is particularly key during winter. Worn under your jersey, it will keep your temperature regulated and your body mostly sweat-free. Other companies make similar kit, and they can sometimes look a little more swish – Rapha and Assos both make base layers as beautiful as their outer layers – but ultimately it doesn't really matter how it looks, given you'll be covering it up with a jersey. Planet X's base layers are comfy, somehow both warm and cool, and cheap enough that you can stock up. Plus, there are sleeveless, short sleeve and long sleeve options.

Merino is the perfect material for tackling tough autumn cycling conditions, and this jersey makes astonishing use of it. It’s soft, silky and breathable, but makes absolutely no concessions on its ability to keep you warm. It feels like wearing a comfy jumper, in the best possible way, but one that is light and snug, and ready for speedy cycling.