Cold weather clothing-

Scudder76

Hiya-

I'm determined to ride well into, and maybe through the winter this year, but need to gear up for the challenge. I've got loads of layering options for jerseys & jackets, but a 70 mile Saturday in a windy 40-50 degrees F wearing my Pearl Iz thermal knickers indicated that I might need more bottom options. Basically, I'm wondering if I should get a pair of plain waist tights with no chamois, to wear over bib-shorts, or get a thermal, wind-blocking bib-tight with a chamois, and stick with just one layer.

Also, does anyone have a favorite solution for warm feet? I've got booties (but maybe need better ones), and I'm going to tape over the sole-vents on my shoes before I ride again. Could still use some extra warmth there, but don't want too thick a sock.

Spatialized

I've used Under Armor Cold Gear tights over bike shorts w/chamois with cargo shorts or similar over that for the last 3 years and except for the really cold days (0-15F) I've been OK, then I just add/change the top outer layer to like 3/4 shorts or rain pants and I'm OK. Feet-wise, I'm running flats so it's 2 layers of wool socks, one thin, one thicker with plenty of room to move. Again, until it gets cold-cold, that's worked fine. Look into cold weather insole too. I've heard good things about the 45NRTH insoles but have not tried them.

Dahamac

I still ride when the temps dip into the low 30's (F). I use standard shorts and bibs but where thermal tights over the bibs. When it is really cold, then I wear thermal knee warmers with the thermal tights over the top. I was buying $20 Walmart Thermal Tights but I haven't been able to find them in the last two years :-(

For my feet, I have become a firm believer in wool (especially smart wool). For the bitter cold days I also double up on the socks with one thin pair under a heavy pair of wool socks with no shoe covers or just the heavy woollies with shoe covers. I've found wool socks at outlet stores for about $7 a pair.

The next step in my commuting training is being able to comfortably riding in the cold and wet. However, clothing that will allow me to do so carries what I consider to be a heavy price tag. Then again I am really cheap.

KatrinaWilke

I lived in Bismarck and commuted when the temp dropped to the teens.

I forgot what the names of the tights are, but they have a windproof layer on the front but allow for some breathing in the back. I got them big enough so I could wear a chamois and termal underwear underneath. I also wore a thermal shirt, with a long sleeve jersey, and a windproof jacket. Sometimes I wore a shirt that had the windproof layer on the chest only.

I topped it off with winter gloves, toe covers for my shoes, and ear muffs (sometimes I wore my snowboarding helmet).

KatrinaWilke

And one thing I learned is blocking the wind is more important than layers. Your body does a good job of warming itself up if you can keep the wind from killing you!

aliciaje

I commute all year round in Canada, although my ride is only about 20 mins (in the dark). The lowest I go is -15C.. which is 5F. I wear wool tights, with a windproof riding specific tight over top. Wool shirt, fleece and gore-tex jacket on top. Wool socks but no foot covers. I make a balaclava out of a Buff worn under my helmet and ski goggles when it's really cold. Pretty sure I have scared a few neighbourhood kids looking like this with all my lights flashing. I am investing in some pogies this year because no gloves have succeeded in keeping my hands warm.

solastyear

Are you doing short-ish commutes, or planning longer rides? On commutes, I can keep myself comfortable at -30C and colder without any bike-specific gear. I just wear normal winter clothing/socks/boots. If you are going to continue to do long rides at a fast pace, then this probably won't work for you.

As has already been mentioned, blocking the wind is key, but you'll want fewer layers/less insulation than you might think or you will sweat and then freeze due to no ventilation. Your aim is to keep yourself cool enough that you minimize sweat (you might be surprised at how warm you can get on a cold day). You'll likely have to experiment to find what works best for you. Keep your skin covered. A thin balaclava can be amazingly warm and makes breathing more comfortable. You can also consider ski goggles if gets cold and windy enough. I also recommend wool socks. I guess this has all been mentioned already, but it's worth repeating because it's good advice.

sufferlandrian

what are Pogies?

aliciaje

These are pogies:

sufferlandrian

Now how cool are those! I've never seen anything like them. Brilliant! :drinker: :drinker: :drinker: