Its cold out there

Went for a ride this morning, it was 34°. It was really cold! So with winter knocking at the door I thought I would say a few words on preparing to ride in the winter.

Cold weather riding is a challenge for everyone. It is not something that you can just go out and do. It takes a little time to acclimatize yourself to cold weather activities of any kind. Don’t make the coldest day of the year your first day riding in cold weather. Riding comfortably in the cold weather takes time and persistence. One of the best ways to get ready for cold weather riding is making sure you have the proper clothing.

Clothes make a difference.

When it comes to clothing here is a case where ‘more is really better’. Instead of bulky winter type clothing, layering is the key to staying warm while also being comfortable on the bike. With that in mind you should think of layering this way; a base layer is what you wear right next to your skin, intermediate layer means exactly what the term implies, and an outer layer to go over the top of everything.

Base layers are probably the most important but often the most overlooked part of your winter cycling wardrobe. Base layers are intended to keep your core warm. Higher core temperatures will make it easier for your body to keep your extremities warm. When selecting a base layer, make sure it is made of a material designed to wick away moisture. The key to avoiding the ‘big chill’ is not only staying warm but also staying dry. Also avoid the tendency to put on too much or too heavy a base layer. If you start the ride toasty warm you will be too hot while riding no matter how cold the outside temperature. Moderation is a key here.

When the weather turns really cold, intermediate layers are a good thing to think about adding, they can be as simple as an existing jersey, or a lightweight wool log sleeved Tee shirt, the idea is to use a thin layer or two to trap warm air between them to further insulate you from the cold.

Outer layers should be lightweight, and at a minimum be wind resistant, and be able to repel light precipitation. With a jacket described above you will cut some of the wind chill and it will help keep you dry in case of inclement weather. But there is more, If you have a jacket that is not vented or is not breathable than you will eventually overheat, there will be no where for the excess heat generated while exercising to escape. Gore-Tex is a good example of a breathable, durable, weather resistant fabric.

Tights come in all styles, some with chamois some without. Multi-sport athletes may prefer tights without chamois. Tights may also be thin or thick, lined or just Lycra, some may have a windproof layer others not. Temperature will really determine how much protection from the elements your tights should provide you.

Now that our core and legs are comfortable, its time to think about the extremities. Fingers and toes tend to be the areas where we feel the cold the most. When temperatures hover near freezing, riders need gloves with superior insulation and a windproof membrane to protect fingers from frostbite. Thanks to advances in neoprene cycling gloves, it’s possible to get all the warmth you desire without sacrificing dexterity for shifting and braking. Three-fingered lobster-style gloves also provide an ideal combination of agility and warmth. When the temperatures dip below the freezing mark I have had success with chemical hand warmers, they can provide hours of added protection from the cold.

As the fall approaches toes can be kept warm by simply wearing wool socks, but as winter approaches wind-chill along with lower temperatures means more has to be done. Toe covers, neoprene covers that slip over the front of your cycling shoes can offer a measure of protection against wind-chill. When the weather turns severe, booties may be more appropriate. Shoe covers generally are neoprene and cover the entire shoe and part way up your ankle. They may or may not be lined, and they usually have a provision to cutting out the sole to match your cycling cleat. In general you should buy a shoe cover one or two sizes bigger than your cycling shoe size in order to facilitate putting them on.

The biggest area of body heat loss is your head, and that new helmet you bought this year with the gazillion vents to keep you cool is now working to make you cold. If the weather is just marginally cold you may be able to get by with a simple moisture wicking skull cap. Colder weather will require that you protect your ears also and you should be able to do that with a headband that has ear flaps. Really cold weather may require the use of a Balaclava to keep your entire head warm. In all cases these will fit fine under your helmet with just a slight adjustment of the helmet straps.

One note on eye wear. The cold weather will make your eyes water even more than they might during the summer months. It is very important to use eye protection. In general the intensity of the daylight is less in the winter, so if you can, put away those extra dark lenses and look for yellow or clear lenses for your riding glasses. Make sure that you are still protected from UV rays.

Where am I going to find all of this?

Some of the items like shoe covers, and cycling specific long sleeve jerseys or jackets you will want to visit your local bike shop. You will be able to try it on, to look at your self in the mirror, and you will be able to tell if that particular shade of blue matches the blue tires on your bike. Other thinks like base-layers, gloves, tights, etc you should be able to also shop in the many smaller winter weather sports shops or the big-box sporting goods stores. Remember skiers, snowboarders, skaters are just some of the few winter athletes that also have the same requirement to keep warm and still maintain a degree of flexibility. I have had much success using cross-country ski gloves, balaclavas, and base layers while cycling.

Determined to ride.

As winter and cold weather approaches just make sure that you are properly prepared for the weather you will encounter for the ride. Learn to taper off a little and just go out to have fun riding. You will not be able to ride with the same intensity that you could during the summer. Don’t beat yourself up over it! With a little forethought, winter riding can be an enjoyable recreational activity, try it.