Cold weather clothing for bicycling, running and walking

Onedaywriter

I’m looking for specific recommendations for cold weather clothing for walking, running and bicycling. I guess temperatures between 30-55 degrees F. For cycling I typically wear shorts above that and sort of stop when weather gets cold. But want to do it even when cold. For walking/running- this is new for me.
Also shoes that are weatherproof for walking and running. I sort of walk a little run a little for about an hour total. I’m using Brooks Adrenaline and love them but want waterproof for colder weather. They get high ratings for both walking and running.
I hate that everything stops for me due to winter weather and I’m worried about gyms re-closing. I want to be ready in case.

NorthCascades

I got a jacket I absolutely love - Arc'teryx Proton FL - and use it in the winter for Nordic skiing. Very breathable, just the right amount of insulation, dries very quickly. Those are most of the attributes you want. This one lets the wind through, so I bring a wind shell when I might need it, but most of the time that jacket and a good base layer are all I need or want. Edit to add: I use it in the summer for hiking too, it can get a little chilly up high. Pretty much lives in my pack and comes out when I need the comfort that instant warmth brings.

Merino wool is great for athletic base layers. I prefer poly these days because it dries faster but wool keeps you warm even when it's wet.

Can't recommend shoes, those are highly personal and I don't think many people would like my approach there. What I can say on that front is you should visit a running and an outdoor store.

spiriteagle99

I can't help with the bike clothes, though I imagine windproof would be the most helpful.

For walking, I just wear my normal hiking pants or running pants with a long sleeved top and the appropriate jacket for the temperature. I have fleece jackets and a down jacket I wear when it's really cold, with a wool hat and gloves.

For running, dress for 20 degrees warmer than the feels like temperature. Wind and cloud cover can make a big difference, so it takes some experimenting to find what works for you. If you are comfortable when you start out, you'll be too warm two miles in. I have Adidas warmup pants that are my favorite for running when it's below 40 because they have good pockets, and also some pants that are warm polyester meant for running. Long sleeved shirt, usually a race shirt, if the temperature is below 50. I add a light wind jacket for 20-35. Sometimes I'll wear a fleece vest instead. I have a fleece earband I wear when it's cold or a fleece hat when it's really cold. I have both very lightweight liner gloves and fleece gloves. If it's cold, I'll start with the fleece and switch to the lighter gloves once my hands start sweating. When it's below 20 I'll sometimes wear a buff or light balaclava. I'll also add a middle layer - a second shirt or vest under the light jacket.

Onedaywriter

Thanks for the ideas. The Arc’teryx products seem to get great reviews. I want to try to go to a brick and mortar to look at their stuff.
I would have never remembered an ear and but I will definitely grab one.
I’m gonna be ready this year!!

NorthCascades

I'm not here to sell you anything, but FYI Arc'teryx does free shipping, and they send a postage paid shipping label so returning anything doesn't cost anything.

I should say one more thing about them. I bought one of their Goretex jackets 13 years ago. Took real good care of it, but the draw cord at the hem died last winter. I brought it into their store to see if it could be repaired, they gave me a brand new one instead. After 12 years.

Ok I'm done shilling now. But if you do go with them, wait for a sale.

icemom011

For cycling- long pants, thermal long sleeve jersey, wind-proof jacket. Thermal shoe covers if you wear cycling shoes, because all the vents make your feet feel really cold in the cool, windy weather. Full palm gloves, possibly thermal. Maybe a beanie under your helmet. If extra cold, in 30s, probably another base layer.

lorrpb

Layers. Base wicking later—wool or one of the many synthetics engineered for this purpose. Then a warmth layer like fleece. The weight will depend on the temp and how you tolerate the temp. Then an outer wind proof water proof/resistant layer depending on conditions. A sunny dry 50 degree day is different than a 35 degree heavy rain day. I also like tops that can be zipped up or down. Underarm zips are great too. The venting can make a big difference in comfort 30 min into the activity. Venting/breathability and waterproofness are generally opposites on the scale. The most waterproof garments offer very little venting.

I dress such that know I’ll be cool the first 10-15 Min til I get warmed up with my activity, so I’m not immediately overheated or shedding layers I have to drag along all day. A wind water proof layer is indispensable when you need it but even the best fabrics can retain a lot of moisture on the inside (sweat) Thus contributes to discomfort and possible chilliness layer on. Gortex is still the absolute best in my experience if it’s in your budget.

It takes some experimentation and depends on your personal comfort factors and the conditions you’ll be in most often. Have fun!