Biking in a Winter Wonderland

Don’t let cold, sleet, or snow force you off your bike—here’s what you need to stay warm in the saddle throughout the year

By Kyle Boelte

February 6, 2017

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Photo by GibsonPictures/iStock

When the days grow short and temperatures drop, many cyclists hang up their bikes in hibernation. Biking through cold, slush, and snow, however, can be incredibly fun—as long as you have what it takes to stay warm, dry, and safe. Of course, cycling doesn’t have to be expensive—all you really need is a decent bike. But investing in a few key items will help you maintain those fitness- and sustainability-boosting bona fides afforded by your trusty bike year-round. Plus, they’ll allow you to power yourself to where you need to go—and reap savings on gas and other costs associated with alternate transportation—throughout winter.

 

Even cool-weather riding can feel ice-cold once the wind hits your skin. Castelli’s Perfetto Convertible Jacket ($230) provides excellent wind and moisture protection and warmth without a lot of bulk, making it a great choice for both group rides and morning commutes. The convertible version of the Perfetto Long Sleeve offers full protection in cold conditions, but pull off the sleeves, and it turns into a short-sleeved jersey—making for a handy between-seasons piece.

 

Cold hands aren’t just a hassle, they’re also a safety matter—you want to be able to steer and brake without being slowed down by numb fingers. Giro 100 Proof Gloves afford enough mobility for cycling, and their split-mitten cut keeps your fingers close together for added warmth. These gloves ($85) are made to handle both cold and wet weather.

Do your hands go numb during cold-weather rides even when you’re wearing gloves? Enter Bar Mitts ($75). Attach to your handlebars and slip your hands in during rides. They block the wind, keeping your hands toasty sans thick winter gloves.

 

The Rho LTW Beanie ($35) is a thin, soft, merino wool lid that fits well under your helmet. On cool days, it provides just enough warmth, without causing you to overheat.

Pearl Izumi’s ELITE Thermal Arm Warmers ($35) and Leg Warmers ($50) are easy to take off and store in your jersey pocket when you don’t need them. They work best during swing seasons—when you’re likely to start a ride in the cold but warm up before it’s over.

Not every winter cyclist needs 45nrth Wölvhammer Cycling Boots ($325). But, if you live somewhere with lots of snow and very cold weather (say, zero to 25 degrees), this warm, waterproof boot might make the difference between biking throughout winter and having to find an alternate way to get where you’re going.

The Icebreaker Oasis Balaclava ($35) provides full coverage for your head and neck, keeping the wind and cold at bay. However, it’s not so thick that it’ll make you sweat or bunch uncomfortably under your helmet.

 

Keep your drivetrain running smoothly all winter with help from this specially formulated Squirt Low-Temp Chain Lube ($15), which stands up to low temperatures. Also, remember to wipe down your ride after spins through winter wonderland—otherwise, salt and dirty water can build up, causing erosion and rust damage.

When the days are short, it’s extra crucial to have the safety and security of a headlight on your bike. Lezyne’s Super Drive 1250XXL Bike Light ($120) easily attaches to handlebars and offers an LED light that can be adjusted to increase brightness or battery life.