EQUIPMENT GUIDE

Enjoying your big day in the mountains shouldn’t come down to a game ofchance.

The Etape will be one of the most memorable rides in your life so plan ahead,check the forecast and make sure you’re ready to pedal through the best andthe worst of the weather ahead with versatile clothing that allows you to beflexible !

HOW TO DRESS FOR THE ETAPE ?

Guide designed with Rapha, official Partner of l’Étape du Tour 2018

4 TOP TIPS

Wear lighter layersLayering is the best way to manage your body temperature as the weather changes. The mountains can go from hot to cold very quickly, so wear lighter layers which you can take on and off.

Wear close-fitting kitClose-fitting layers trap insulating pockets of air near your body. Tight kit might feel strange, butloose layers act like a bellows, pumping cold air around your body, purging the precious heat thatyou’ll be losing on those alpine descents.

Accessorise with warmersWarmers let you adapt to the conditions on the go. Keeping arms, legs and neck covered will help to ward off wind chill, but can be easily taken off if the weather heats up.

Bring a good waterproofIf it’s definitely going to rain, take a rain jacket. If there’s just a chance of rain and the weather’swarm, a rain gilet should be enough.

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KIT CHECK-LIST

HelmetYou won’t be allowed to ride without one.

CapThe swiss army knife of the cycling wardrobe, a cap offers temperature regulation and protection from the sun and rain.

SunglassesBright sun casts deep shadows. Glasses also protect your eyes at speed from dry, dusty roads.

GlovesPadded mitts will keep you comfortable when on the bars for hours at a time, providing grip and control too. They’llalso protect your hands if you fall.

KIT CHECK-LIST

Gilet/JacketMake sure you carry a waterproof outer layer with you. Wear it at the early start, on the descents, and if the rain starts falling. Take a jacket, or a gilet only if it’s very hot.

JerseyA cycling jersey should be made of a good fabric and have three rear pockets to store your provisions for the day.

Bib ShortsThe most important piece of your outfit. You’ll be sitting all day, so make sure that you wear quality bib shorts with a good chamois pad.

LA CHECK-LIST

Base LayerA good base layer traps warm air close to your body even when it’s cold, and wicks sweat away efficiently whenyou’re working hard.

SocksBreathable, antibacterial socks will stop your feet from overheating (and smelling). Socks also play a crucial part in the all-important style department.

ShoesDance on the pedals with a lightweight pair of clip-on cycling shoes. The Rapha Climber’s Shoes are perforated all over, letting the air in to keep your feet cool in the heat.

MISTAKES TO AVOID

UnderdressingEven in the summer, the mountains can reach freezingtemperatures. Make sure you’re overdressed, rather thanunderdressed – you can always take an extra layer off andcarry it in your back pocket.

Wearing kit for the first timeIf you’d like to wear new clothing for the event, werecommend that you test it out on a few rides to make sure that it is comfortable, fits, and doesn’trub in the wrong places.

Buying cheap clothingThe mountains are an unforgiving environment to wear badlymade clothing in. The investment you make in quality kit willmore than reap its benefits if the weather turns.

More information on how to dress on the bike on https://pages.rapha.cc/category/guidesTo complete your preparation, you can find all of the Étape du Tour guides on the website of l’Étape du Tour :- 3 month training plan ;- Nutrition guide(coming soon).