As winter approaches us, the days get shorter, the sun doesn’t get as intense, so it means less warmth, and colder days. But if you are a cycling fanatic like the rest of us on this blog, riding during the winter shouldn’t stop you, and neither should your wardrobe. Anyone can bike during the winter, just have to have the right clothing.
Peal Izumi gloves cost $60 at REI.com
Shoe covers are good insulation for keeping your feet warm. They cost $60 at REI.com
One of the main things that doesn’t get a lot of action while riding, and gets cold quickly are your toes and fingers. One thing that you should consider is to get a glove that is easy to maneuver to brake and use zippers. Gloves with a cloth, fleece, or wool material on the inside and outer shell that is waterproof. As for the feet, you will need to wear thicker socks, like wool socks, or a winter-style sock. A tip is to adjust your shoes so they are not tight to as it will make your feet colder. Another option is to get shoe covers.
Pearl Izumi tights are thermal, which helps for headwinds, and also come in women's, REI.com $70
Pearl Izumi leg warmers are only $39.50 @ REI.com.
The next thing you must take care of is the who reason you can ride, your knees. There are several options for keep your knees warm and loose during rides. One is the get long cycling tights. Another option is to get leg warmers, which are easier to take off if the day gets warmer as you ride.
Even though in 2008 the myth about losing most of your body heat through your head was proven wrong, it is still important to keep your head and ears well protected.
Whole hat. $22 REI.com
- Headband, $17 @ REI.com
Last but not least, protection and warmth for your upper body. Layering is your best option here. Wearing an under layer, which would depend on what you feel comfortable with, could be something from a compression shirt, to just wearing arm warmers, which again is easy to remove if need be. You could also have the option of a wool jersey. The next layer should be either a windbreaker or an outer shell, which should be easy to store if needed to be shed.
Thermal Arm warmers, $30, REI.com
Convertible jacket, sleeves are removable. $110 @ REI.com, available in women's
When out on your first cold ride, don’t be discouraged. It may be cold, but that is what riding is for! Warming up, getting lose, and as the ride goes on, remember that your layers are easily removable. Don’t let the cold weather stop you from riding this winter season!
Until next time, Ride On!
Related articles
- Winter Cycling Gloves (magnificentnose.com)
- Gear Review: Arm Warmers (btothes.wordpress.com)
- Winter Cycling Clothes for the Guy in your Life (aceso71.wordpress.com)
- How to store your bike safely over winter (blogs.confused.com)
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