So why do some cyclist's stuff newspaper down their jerseys?

Question

i was watching the tour this morning and i saw a few cyclists put a few sheets of newspaper in their jersey at the top of a climb.. is it for sweat or is it just some extra padding in the front just in case they take a spill or is it just a little more protection from the wind when they fly down the mountains..

Answer 1

I didn't know they did this, but I am guessing extra protection from the wind.

Answer 2

lol maybe they wanna read the newspaper later

Answer 3

Yes, newspaper acts as a windbreaker and as insulation if you already have a jacket but it's not quite enough to keep you warm. Plus, when you're done with it, you can safely dispose of it.

Answer 4

to block the wind. they're all sweaty from the climb, and the speeds they may reach on the descent will cause their bodies to otherwise cool down too rapidly, even causing hypothermia. it's about all l'equipe is good for these days!

Answer 5

They only stuff the newspaper in the front of their jersey when they are about to descend after a mountain top climb when their body temperature will be elevated, the paper stops the cold air from chilling their upper body on the fast descent, at the bottom they discard the paper.

Answer 6

Insulation.  It keeps them just warm enough, but not too hot, like a jacket, while they are cycling and building up body heat.