How To: Prepare for a Winter Ride
When temperatures drop, your love for cycling doesn’t need to go into hibernation! Cold rides can be a real treat if you are well prepared. This article will guide you on how to dress from head to toe for a comfortable and safe ride.
1. Layer, Layer, Layer!
The key to staying comfortable on a winter ride is mastering the art of layering. With the right system of layers, you can easily regulate your body temperature by adding or removing pieces of clothing as needed.
- Baselayer (First layer): Start with a solid foundation - a thermal shirt that wicks sweat away and keeps you dry. Opt for merino wool or synthetic fabrics, as they retain heat even when damp and dry quickly, so you won’t be stuck in clammy clothes.
- Midlayer (Second layer): This layer provides essential insulation, trapping your body heat. Think of a fleece or thermal cycling jersey. On particularly cold days, a windproof or waterproof midlayer can offer extra protection.
- Outer layer (Shell): The finishing touch is a reliable outer layer that shields you from the elements. A windproof or rain jacket works wonders against the cold and rain. For winter rides, a padded, windproof, and waterproof winter jacket is your best friend. Just make sure it’s also breathable, so you don’t overheat and sweat.
2. Protect Your Extremities: No More Cold Fingers and Toes!
Your hands, feet, and head lose heat the fastest while cycling, so it’s crucial to keep them well protected.
- Gloves: Thick, windproof, and waterproof gloves are a must. For extreme cold, consider heated gloves or mittens, depending on your preference and the temperature.
- Socks and Overshoes: Thermal socks made from merino wool or synthetic materials will help keep your feet warm. Overshoes are essential for winter, as they protect your feet from cold wind and rain. Neoprene overshoes are especially effective at keeping the heat in.
- Head and Neck: A buff or a thin cap under your helmet will keep your head warm without blocking ventilation. Don’t forget your neck -a neck warmer or buff can provide plenty of warmth and is easy to remove if you start to overheat. For example, Lazer offers an aeroshell for the Z1 KinetiCore. This aeroshell sits onto your helmet. It closes the ventilation holes of the helmet so that you are not only more aerodynamic but also more protected from cold wind and rain.
3. The Right Trousers Make All the Difference
Your legs do the hard work, so keep them warm! A pair of long thermal cycling tights with bibs is ideal for winter rides. Some tights even come with windproof panels at the front, which is perfect if you frequently ride against the wind.
4. Stay Visible: Visibility is Key
Winter often brings darker, mistier, or rainier conditions, which reduces your visibility on the road. Choose clothing with reflective details like stripes or logos to help you stand out. You can also add extra lights to your bike for maximum visibility in traffic.
5. Check the Weather: Be Ready for Anything
Before you head out, always check the weather forecast. Wind and rain can significantly lower the “feels-like” temperature, so it’s smart to bring a waterproof jacket or windbreaker. If rain is expected, waterproof gloves and overshoes are also a good idea.
6. Dress Smart: Start Off Cool, Not Too Warm
Don’t overdress at the start of your ride. If you’re already sweating before you’re properly moving, you’ve likely got too many layers on. It’s better to start a little cooler, as your body will quickly warm up as you ride. If you get too hot, shed a layer to prevent overheating and sweating, as wet clothes cool you down fast.
7. Extra Warmth Boosters: Small Accessories, Big Impact
Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference in the cold. Hand warmers or heated insoles for your shoes can be a game-changer. There are even heated jackets or vests available these days, powered by small batteries to provide extra warmth on long winter rides.
With the right preparation and clothing, cycling in the cold can be a joy. By layering smart, keeping your extremities warm, and staying visible, you can ride safely and comfortably even in low temperatures. So don’t let the cold hold you back—enjoy every winter mile.
