An Ode to Cold Weather Riding
There’s a briskness in the air these days-- suppose you’ve felt it too.
Cold weather is upon us, people! What are we to do?!?
Perhaps we’ll bundle under blankets, oh so cozy and warm,
Drinking tea and feeling free, as this should be the norm.
And sit and stoke a fire, enjoying nature’s TV,
We warm the bones, smell earthy tones, and live a life carefree.
But WAIT, “We’re out of s’mores!” the kids cry out in panic,
“More marshmallows please, and make sure they’re organic!”
So out we go in the dank dark night, in search of candy fluff,
To drive or bike is the decision here, a choice that may seem tough.
Fret not my fellow people, for this we must understand,
Biking is still the name of the game, cold weather itself be damned!
Hear me out here folks, I know there are some doubters,
Just follow seven cold weather tips, and bike around for hours!
Lights
As the days become shorter, having a well lit bicycle becomes imperative through the colder months. Make sure your front and rear lights have fully juiced batteries, and jump on our member’s sale this week for 15% off all new lights!
Base Layers
This “second skin” layer helps prevent the body from becoming cold, rather than necessarily keeping it warm. A well fitting base layer effectively wicks away sweat from the skin as quickly as possible, and is able to dry quickly. In this way, it allows you to remain active without your sweat making you cold! Find base layers that are polyester, nylon, or wool.
Insulating Layers
While the base layer wicks away moisture, your insulating layers are what keep you warm. They help trap the heat that your body radiates, allowing you to swim in the warmth of your own making. Many insulating layers are “breathable” which maximizes comfortability and lessens the potential of overheating. Many thicker fleece or wool layers work well as insulators, along with “puffy” jackets that are light and effective!
Shell
This outer layer does the dirty work of blocking wind and precipitation from reaching the rest of your layering system. The shell allows the insulating layers to do their job uninhibited!
Gloves/Mittens
Keep those fingers warm and usable throughout a cold-weather bike ride! The perfect glove system is insulated and weather resistant while allowing your fingers dexterity for braking and shifting!
Bonus Pro-Tip: Oven Mitts
Tired of carrying your mittens to and fro all day long? Just tape oven mitts to your handlebars and allow for a built in glove system on your bike! Genius!
(Nina here… you could also purchase Bar Mitts! We’ll let ya choose your adventure on this one.)
Boots
Cold toes are the easiest way to ruin a good time. Don’t let it happen by having well insulated shoes or boots while riding.
Buff/Scarf/Balaclava
Protect the money-maker with a stylish and warm garment of your choosing. Wind chill can seriously hurt the face and even cause frostnip on ears or noses in more serious cases. These layers block the brunt of the wind and help insulate one of the more sensitive parts of the body!
Don’t let the cold weather stop you from biking all over town! Plan ahead and prepare with your gear, and have no fear of biking all year long!
Happy Riding!
-Sam