It is almost 2016, and chances are you'd like to take care of your health in the coming year. As I've mentioned before, cycling is a great way to integrate exercise into your life, and one benefit of starting in winter is that it only gets easier and more pleasant as summer approaches. That said, I am a big fan of the Scandinavian adage: "There is no bad weather, only bad clothing." Here are some tips on what to wear for winter cycling.
For moderately cold weather:
1) Balaclava
2) Gloves or cycling mittens
3) Ibex sweater
A balaclava under your helmet will do wonders to keep you warm! This is superior to wearing a hood over your helmet (it will probably blow off frequently and will catch cold wind even if doesn't). Gloves are also critical. It is important to keep all of your extremities warm for comfort, but your feet are at a huge advantage when cycling due to all of the circulation happening in your legs. Cycling specific mittens that look like lobster claws are available, but I think almost any warm glove does the trick. Just make sure they have enough grip to operate your breaks and gearing. The only item in this list that is brand-specific is possibly the best clothing purchase I've ever made: The Ibex Boucle Hoodie. I wear this sweater almost every day because it is one of those magical garments that keeps me warm without overheating, whether the temperature is moderate or very cold. Added bonus: the hood is essentially a built-in balaclava because of the high-necked construction that zips all the way to the chin.
For very cold weather:
4) Water proof shell such as rain pants, rain coat and/or gators
5) Ski goggles
6) Face mask
7) Excellent socks (I love SmartWool)
8) Thermal underwear
This list is compiled from observations of Kevin heading out for his daily commute around this time of year, plus a few recommendations of my own. In Denver, moisture generally becomes more of a problem in the snowy winter months, hence the waterproof outer layer. That said, waterproof layers are notoriously efficient at sealing in body heat, so extremely cold days (even if dry) are a reasonable time to set aside your "breathable" outerwear and risk feeling a little too warm by the time you reach your destination. Ski goggles are key. On windy days, my eyes feel cold before anything else, and visibility is especially crucial on icy streets. A face mask can supplement your balaclava if your nose gets cold. Socks and thermal underwear are standards for cold weather under any circumstances, but a lot of people forget about them and how versatile they can be. Yes, you can wear ski socks and long underwear to work all day! No one will know and you will be cozy and warm!
For icy paths and pavement:
9) Yaktrax or microspikes
10) Wide snow tires
I just bought Kevin a pair of Kahtoola MICROspikes to replace his broken Yaktrax. Good traction on your feet is key for cycling on snow or ice. You'll be grateful for them any time you stop and put your foot down, and they can prevent a little slip during your ride from turning into a major crash. Obviously, don't use these with clipless (clip-in) pedals. Lastly, take the time to outfit your bike with winter tires. Your local bike shop can help you with this. Even if you can't fit wider tires on your bike, you should be able to get tires with good tread for winter.
If you try all of these and still aren't enjoying cold-weather riding, check out my cousin Kim's Alaskan snow bike adventures for more ideas!
