Any cyclist will tell you that dressing for a bike ride in cold weather is all about layering. You want to wear clothes that will keep you warm but won’t make you too hot when you start pedaling. Here are some tips on how to dress for biking in the cold weather.
How to dress for biking in cold weather?
Here, we will first show how to dress like a cyclist in cold weather conditions. See below:
Start with a base layer
Your base layer should be made of a wicking fabric that will help to draw sweat away from your body. This will help to keep you cool and dry as you ride.
Add a middle layer
Your middle layer should be an insulating layer, such as a fleece or wool shirt. This will help to keep you warm as you ride.
Finish with an outer layer
Your outer layer should be wind and water resistant. This will help to protect you from the wind and rain.
Wear gloves
Some people think they can get away with not wearing gloves or a hat, but this is one of the first things that you will wish you had as soon as your fingers and ears start to go numb. You can also wear tights under your jeans if you’re really cold. Just don’t forget to cover up if it snows.
Avoid cotton
One of the worst things you can wear while biking in cold weather is a cotton t-shirt because once it gets wet from sweat, it makes you very cold. Instead, go for moisture wicking fabrics that will keep you warm even when they’re wet, or wear a biking specific thermal layer that’s made to get wet.
Dress in layers
If you start to get too hot while riding, it’s easy to take off a layer since you’re already wearing so many clothes. But if you start to get cold, it’s hard to put the extra gear back on once you’ve stopped. That is why it is important that your under-layers are thin and your outer-layers are thick.
Stay dry
The most important thing is to stay dry. If you get wet, you will get cold, no matter how many layers of clothes you are wearing. Make sure to bring a rain jacket or poncho with you, just in case it rains. And if you start to sweat, stop to take off your mid-layer and open up your outer layer. If you continue pedaling while wet, the cold air will cool you down even more.
Helmet
It is important to wear a helmet while biking because you may crash. In winter, you need to wear a winter helmet if your regular one is not water or snowproof.
Water Bottle
You need water while riding. You can put your water in the bottle cages on your bike, bring a Camelback (like a backpack for carrying water) or just carry it in your hand.
Sunglasses/Sunscreen
It is easier to get sunburn when you’re riding because you’re much closer to the rays than when you’re walking or standing still. So if it’s sunny out, make sure to bring sunglasses and sunscreen with you.
What should not wear when cycling in winter?
Here, we will show you what you should not wear when cycling in cold weather. See below:
Don’t wear cotton
Wearing a cotton t-shirt while biking is a terrible idea. Once it gets wet from sweat, it can cause you to get extremely cold.
Don’t wear a short-sleeve base layer
A short-sleeve base layer may be comfortable when you start riding, but you will quickly start to overheat.
Don’t wear jeans
Jeans are not a good choice for biking in cold weather because they are not water or wind resistant.
Winter biking tips
The following biking tips will help you in cold weather:
A good bike is essential for cycling in cold weather. Make sure to use a bike with full fenders, rain gear, and lights. The full suspension mountain bikes under $1000 will give you good performance in cold seasons.
When biking in the cold, it’s important to layer your clothes so that you can remove or add pieces as you warm up or cool down. Wear breathable fabric layers under an insulating layer and windproof/waterproof outer layers on top of those to keep out wind and rain. Thick socks are also important to keep your feet warm.
You should know how cold it is before you decide whether or not to ride and what clothes to wear for biking in cold weather. If the temperature drops below 0 degrees Fahrenheit (or -18 degrees Celsius), you may need special equipment like winter tires, toe covers, or handgrips. If you’re biking in the snow, make sure your bike is equipped for riding in wet or muddy conditions.
Putting on a wet base layer after you’ve stopped can be dangerous if you get too cold since it can lead to hypothermia (when your body temperature drops dangerously low). Bring an extra dry mid-layer and outer layer to put on if you start to feel cold.
Your hands, feet, and head are the most susceptible to the cold, so be sure to wear warm clothes for biking in cold weather in those areas. Mittens are warmer than gloves, and a hat will keep your head warm. Special cycling socks and shoes also keep your feet warm and dry.
Eyewear helps protect eyes from snow blindness, windburn, and cold. Sunglasses with 100% UV protection are a must-have for riding during the winter months. Ski goggles or glasses that fit under a helmet will keep out snow and rain while adding warmth to your eyes.
When biking in the cold, it is important to stay safe and be prepared. By following these tips, you can enjoy a winter bike ride without freezing your butt off.
Conclusion
You now know how to dress for biking in cold weather and we hope this will come in handy as you plan your winter cycling adventures. Stay safe and stay warm! If you’ve tried any of these tips, let us know what worked best for you or share a personal experience below about dressing for the elements. We would love to hear from our readers on their favorite ways to keep comfortable during the winter riding season. What are some things that work well for you? Let us know by leaving a comment below!
