These are a few of my favourite things.
Crisp autumn days. Clear blue skies. Ice-free roads. Get all three at once and I'm out the door with my bike faster than you can say: "I'll be back in time for dinner". Here's a pick of some of the best gear - all from Scottish-based companies - to make sure you stay snug and stylish on your cycling adventures.
Big Bobble Hat (£16-£20)
A favourite of Scottish Commonwealth Games stars Charline Joiner and Louise Haston, Big Bobble Hats are the brainchild of East Kilbride entrepreneur Tamara Hockey, who first designed some for a family skiing trip before branching out into the world of cycling alongside husband Ian.
With their outsized pom-poms, the eye-catching handmade headwear is reminiscent of a giant, fluffy bunny tail, albeit one available in neon pink, rainbow hues and the colours of the Belgian flag.
Ideal cafe stop attire to hide helmet hair, the style names are equally genius with kooky monikers such as Cool Bananas, Peas & Carrots, Cosy Swede and Black Forest Hatto.
Not all are food-inspired. There is also a nod to cycling's pro ranks with assorted national and world champion versions, while for the festive-minded there is a limited edition Santa's ski hat in jolly red and white. With close to 40 options, the only downside is being spoiled for choice.
Big Bobble Hats are available through the official website or in-store from Paisley's Thomsons Cycles.
For more information, visit bigbobblehats.co.uk and thomsonscycles.com
Endura Convert Softshell Jacket (£99.99)
This microfibre jacket from Livingston-based firm Endura contains a host of innovative design features including a windproof and breathable membrane to keep you warm on chilly days.
As the name suggests, it's versatile with detachable, zip-off sleeves which allow venting or complete conversion to a gilet should you start to overheat. The sleeves roll up neatly afterwards meaning they can easily be tucked away when not in use.
The jacket itself fits comfortably like a second skin and is sleek enough that it looks good pottering about off the bike too. If like me, you live in fear of being caught short without a raft of assorted paraphernalia (gels, bananas, spare inner tubes, tyre levers, kitchen sink) then the generous storage - three rear stash pockets and a zipped one on the chest with media port - will rock your world.
The Endura Convert Softshell Jacket comes in purple and black for women with four sizes from XS to L, while men can choose from red, black, green and yellow in sizes S to XXL.
For more information, visit endurasport.com
Johnstons of Elgin Cashmere Snood (£120)
Nothing ruins a good bike ride quite like that horrible crick-in-the-neck feeling that comes from being constantly blasted by an icy wind as you pedal along.
I've spotted some great buffs and neckwarmers on the market this year, but for a spot of luxury while you cycle, this silky soft cashmere offering by Johnstons of Elgin is sublime. Unlike a scarf, you don't have to worry about the tied ends hitting you in the face as you fly through the city streets.
Granted, it's not something you are going to wear on a four-hour training ride up the Crow Road and Tak Me Doon, but for a gentle amble to the meet friends for coffee and cake it's perfect.
The chunky textured snood is available in eight shades including purple, grey, blue, red and navy. Perhaps if I'm really good, Santa Claus will bring me two?
For more information, visit johnstonscashmere.com
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