The Rapha Guide to Cycling Accessories

Cotton cap

If cycling had a totemic object, besides the bike itself, it would be the humble cotton cap. Often referred to as a casquette, the Rapha Cotton Cap II provides timeless protection under a helmet: the reinforced peak keeps rain and harsh sunlight out of your eyes, while the cotton fabric absorbs sweat before it reaches your brow.

Merino hats

Engineered for autumn and winter rides, these merino accessories insulate the ears and forehead against biting winds. The natural crimp of superfine merino wool traps air pockets for warmth while maintaining high breathability during hard climbing efforts.

Pro Team Shadow Winter Hat

A protective piece of headwear for training in harsh winter weather. Built using our microporous Shadow membrane, it delivers wind- and water-resistant protection during cold, damp training rides. An internal Italian grid fleece lining provides essential thermal insulation when temperatures drop toward freezing, while the integrated peak keeps road spray out of your eyes.

Snood

Versatile, cosy and a genuine ride saver on days with cold starts. Whether you call it a collar or say it’s a snood, this example is an extension of Rapha's base layer system, the natural wicking properties of merino wool make it a year-round choice. The stretch in the fabric means it can be pulled over the head for extra protection on particularly cold days.

When conditions fluctuate throughout a ride, cycling arm warmers paired with leg or knee warmers offer a flexible alternative to long-sleeve jerseys, jackets or full-length tights. They allow you to fine-tune your insulation on the fly and pack away easily into a jersey pocket as the mercury rises.

Merino Warmers

Constructed from a 97% superfine merino wool fabric developed exclusively by Rapha, these high-performance warmers combine the natural thermoregulation and odour resistance of wool with a degree of Lycra for stretch and durability. They provide effective insulation, high breathability, and rapid moisture transfer in variable weather conditions.

Thermal Warmers

Designed for colder conditions, these warmers feature a high-stretch synthetic fabric with a brushed-back interior to trap warm air against the skin. Pre-shaped, articulated seams ensure unrestricted movement through the pedal stroke, while robust elasticated grippers hold the warmers securely beneath your jersey sleeves or bib short hems.

Your feet generate substantial heat and moisture during high-tempo efforts. Investing in the best cycling socks ensures optimal power transfer, moisture wicking and prevention of hotspots over long distances.

Pro Team Socks

Elite-level performance socks engineered for high-tempo riding and racing. Constructed from a lightweight, high-grade nylon fabric, they deliver rapid sweat wicking and temperature regulation via a breathable mesh upper. A compressive raised cuff maintains a secure, locked-in fit, while reinforced toe and heel boxes extend overall durability.

Brevet Socks

Engineered for long-distance endurance and multi-day riding. Featuring a cushioned heel and footbed to dampen road vibrations, these socks reduce pressure points during extended stints on the pedals. An integrated arch compression band keeps the sock locked in place to prevent bunching, while reflective Rapha branding below the cuff increases visibility in low-light conditions.

Overshoes

To protect your footwear from road spray, mud and freezing winds, deploying waterproof overshoes is essential for maintaining foot comfort through winter.

Toe Covers

A lightweight, high-stretch 2mm neoprene option for shoulder-season riding. These covers stretch easily over the toe box of road shoes without requiring zips or Velcro, providing quick protection against cool drafts and road spray.

Brevet Mitts

Built for extended periods on the handlebars, featuring strategically placed high-density palm padding that dampens road vibrations and relieves pressure on key nerves. An absorbent AX Suede panel on the thumb allows you to wipe perspiration away, while a reflective dot pattern on the back of the hand improves signalling visibility in low light.

Pro Team Shadow Winter Gloves

Engineered for hard winter training down toward freezing temperatures. Constructed using our microporous Shadow membrane for wind and water resistance, these gloves are lined with a Japanese OCTA thermal lining paired with a grid fleece backer for 360-degree active insulation. An AX Suede palm with touchscreen-compatible Connect tips on the index finger and thumb ensures full bar control and device usability.

GORE-TEX Insulated Waterproof Gloves

Our ultimate cold-weather glove for severe conditions. Built from a 3-layer, ePE-based GORE-TEX fabric (PFAS-free) with a non-fluorine DWR treatment, these gloves provide durable waterproofness and high breathability. PrimaLoft® Gold insulation locks in heat without adding bulk, ensuring dexterity and control over the hoods.

The Bascule

The Bascule is a new, specialised, highly packable insulation accessory designed for early morning starts, fast descents or unpredictable conditions. Carrying a full jacket or gilet is sometimes unnecessary. In these instances, the Bascule provides a targeted barrier against cold wind chill without occupying valuable jersey pocket space, packing down neatly when not in use.