Winter Cycling Essentials – Tools And Clothing

Fall and winter would be considered the best seasons to cycle outdoors. This is because the cooler weather makes it easier for people to ride their bikes without sweating profusely. This is also a fun activity to get your heart pumping in an otherwise cold and dreary season, generally speaking.
But as with anything, planning is critical. In this article, we provide you with some of the best tips on how you can make your winter ride more enjoyable and safe.
Table of Contents
Introduction: What is Winter Cycling?
Winter cycling is the act of riding a bicycle during the fall and winter seasons, typically when snow and ice make riding on pavement difficult. it can be any type of bike (road, mountain, gravel, cyclo-cross, etc.). I have a few that I use throughout the year.
Winter cycling is not as popular in North America as it is in Europe because of the climate and road infrastructure. However, there are still many people who bike during winter because they enjoy the activity and it’s convenient for transportation. Lots of people cycle year-round, considering each season as adding its own little challenges to the rides.
There are many benefits to winter cycling that people should consider before deciding whether or not to take up this activity. One of these benefits is that it provides a way for people to exercise outdoors even when other outdoor activities are limited. Another benefit is that it can help protect against heart disease by getting more exercise and lowering blood pressure while also reducing stress levels. But consult with your doctor before undertaking any new physical activities.
What Gear Do I Need for Winter Cycling?
Winter cycling is a great way to get some exercise during the cold months. However, it does require some gear. If you are thinking about winter cycling, you should think about getting these items for your bike and for the rider.
For the rider: Cycling Clothing for Winter
- Reflective winter cycling: clothing is critical so that drivers can see you when it’s dark outside. A reflective vest or jacket can help you be seen by others in low-light conditions.
- Cycling Tights/Bibs: Winter cycling tights or bibs should fit snugly but comfortably, with enough room for an additional base layer underneath if needed. Look for tights with a fleece lining for added insulation. Ensure that the waist is comfortable and the length covers your ankles adequately. If using bib tights, they should fit without pulling on the shoulders or restricting movement. Make sure there’s enough padding in the seat (chamois) for comfort during long rides, but it should still fit close to your body.

- Waterproof shoes or shoe covers: water proof shoes and shoe covers protect from water and ice on the road. I have a shoe cover similar to this that I bought a few years ago which is very useful when I go on a cold-day ride. Winter cycling boots are also available as an option.
- Hat that covers your ears: getting your ears cold is not comfortable. Cycling specific hats are available, but not necessary if you have other hats to cover your head and ears. A cycle helmet is strongly suggested to protect your head from a fall.
- Cycling Gloves: warm hands are also critical, but is often overlooked. Frozen fingers are a risk to your riding since it will take longer for you to control the bike (braking, steering, changing gears). Gloves for cold-weather cycling should be snug but not too tight to restrict blood flow or grip on the handlebars. Ensure enough dexterity to shift and brake easily. Consider glove liners for extreme cold. Make sure the outer gloves have enough space for layering without feeling bulky.
- A full-face covering: A balaclava or another partial face covering that provides warmth to your face in really cold temperatures.
- Dress in layers: if going on long rides, usually a base layer that wicks moisture away from the body, and a breathable outer layer to get that moisture outside, thus keeping you dry and warm. Side-vent outer layers are a very good option for their ease of use.
- Cycling Pants: Winter or cold weather cycling pants usually have water-proof exterior such as Lycra or Spandex, and a warm internal layer. Your legs will warm up fast when pedaling, but the first few minutes are crucial to get the legs warmed up and to prevent cramping.
- Socks: Winter socks should be thicker than your regular socks. Consider merino wool for warmth. Check your shoe size to ensure they accommodate thicker socks comfortably.
For the bike:
- A headlamp or light so that you can see where you’re going at night/ low light conditions. Remember the sun sets earlier than in the summer. So you being visible to others is equally important as you seeing the road in front of you. So get some rear facing red lights as well for others to notice you in the low light conditions.
- Fenders: front and back wheels fenders protect the rider (and bike) from road debris like salt, water, ice, etc.
- Reflectors: A reflector on the fenders and/ or spokes for better visibility.
- Cycle tools that has spare tube(s), a patch kit, air pump, and other tools you normally use for your specific type or riding and preference. Optional is a handlebar bag to hold all of your belongings, like the tools, spare clothes, snacks, maps, etc.
- This is not critical, but can help in icy roads depending on where you live – A studded tire for your wheels. These are usually made of metal and they have little spikes that go up and down on the tire to help you grip on ice and snow.

How to Size Cold Weather Gear
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Check the size charts: Each brand has its own size chart, so check the brand’s website or product listing for the specific size chart for the gear you’re interested in.
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Measure yourself: Using a flexible tape measure, measure your chest, waist, hips, and inseam to determine your size. Make sure to measure over the clothing you plan to wear under the gear.
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Consider layering: If you’re planning to layer clothing, consider sizing up to accommodate the extra layers, such as a base layer, mid layer, and outer layer.
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Base Layer: The base layer should be snug without being restrictive. This layer wicks sweat away from your body and traps warmth. Avoid anything too tight, which may restrict movement or circulation. Choose a moisture-wicking material like merino wool or synthetic fibers to keep dry. Sizes are usually close to your regular cycling jerseys but may have a slightly tighter fit.
- Mid Layer: Your mid layer (usually a fleece or thermal jersey) should fit close to your body but not too tight to allow some airflow for insulation. It should accommodate the base layer comfortably without being bulky. Ensure there’s enough room for easy movement, especially around the shoulders and arms when you’re in a riding position. Consider cycling-specific mid layers, which are cut to fit the cycling posture.
- Outer Layer: The jacket should be slightly looser than your regular cycling gear to accommodate both base and mid layers but not so loose that it flaps in the wind. Some cold-weather jackets are designed with stretch panels to provide flexibility while riding. Make sure the sleeves are long enough to cover your wrists when you are in a riding position, especially if you’re using a drop-bar road bike. The back of the jacket should be longer to cover your lower back when riding. Look for jackets with an extended drop tail. A good winter cycling jacket should have ventilation options like zips or vents to regulate heat.
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Try before you buy: If possible, try on the gear before purchasing it to ensure a proper fit. If buying online, check the retailer’s return policy in case you need to exchange for a different size.
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Look for adjustable features: Look for gear with adjustable features like cuffs, hoods, and waistbands to ensure a snug fit.
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Flexibility and Adjustability: Make sure all the gear allows for freedom of movement in the cycling position. Look for features like adjustable cuffs, hems, or drawstrings to fine-tune the fit while riding.
These sizing tips will ensure your cold-weather cycling gear is both functional and comfortable.
Unique Elements of Wintertime Riding
- Cold temperatures: The obvious challenge of wintertime riding is the cold temperatures, which can be uncomfortable and even dangerous if not properly prepared for.
- Snow and ice: Riding in snow and ice can be treacherous, but also offers a unique challenge for experienced riders. Winter roads are often slick with snow or ice, making traction much more challenging. Adapt for slower speeds, cautious cornering, and increased braking distance. Switching to studded or wider tires with aggressive tread can provide better grip on icy or snowy roads. Also, reducing tire pressure can help improve grip by allowing the tire to spread out more, creating better contact with the road, especially on wet or icy surfaces.
- Shorter daylight hours: Wintertime riding often means shorter daylight hours, requiring riders to plan their rides carefully and be prepared with lights and reflective gear. Also of importance is to BE visible by wearing reflective clothing and having bikes with reflectors and lights.
- Unique scenery: Wintertime riding can offer some truly unique scenery, from snow-capped mountains to frozen lakes and rivers, not to mention snow capped trees and foggy days.
- Wind Chill: The combination of air temperature and wind chill can cause temperatures to feel much colder than they actually are. The faster you ride, the more wind chill you’ll feel. Investing in windproof outer layers (jackets, pants, gloves) is essential to combat wind chill, especially at higher speeds or on exposed terrain.
- Less traffic: Fewer people are out and about during the winter months, which can mean less traffic on the roads and trails.
- Specialized gear: Wintertime riding requires specialized gear like studded tires, insulated clothing, and lights, which can make it a fun challenge to gear up for.
- Slower Pace and Energy Expenditure: Winter rides tend to be slower due to the need for caution, particularly on slippery roads. This also means rides can feel longer or more physically demanding, even if the distance is shorter.
- Energy Consumption: Cold weather forces your body to burn more calories to stay warm. You may find that your energy levels deplete faster during winter rides, so pack extra snacks or energy bars.
- Hydration: Even though it’s colder, it’s easy to get dehydrated in winter. Make sure to drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel as thirsty.
- Mental Challenge: With reduced daylight and overall lethargy associated to the cold weather, you also see yourself forcing yourself to get out there:
- Motivation: Winter riding requires more mental toughness. Cold, wet, and dark conditions can make it harder to motivate yourself to get out on the bike.
- Consistency: Developing the discipline to ride regularly through winter can be a unique challenge. Having the right mindset and setting realistic goals (whether for fitness, training, or just staying active) helps keep you consistent.
- Mud and Gravel: Many riders turn to gravel or mountain biking during winter months to avoid icy or snowy streets. Off-road trails can provide a better option since you’re away from traffic, but they can also be muddy, requiring more bike care and attention.
- Winter-Specific Cycling Events:
- Fat Biking: In snowy regions, fat biking (riding bikes with over-sized tires for better traction on snow) has grown in popularity. This form of cycling is designed to handle snow-packed trails and winter terrain.
- Winter Races: There are unique winter cycling events and races like snow crits or ice time trials, offering competitive cyclists the chance to challenge themselves in snowy and icy conditions.
Winter cycling may require more preparation and gear, but the rewards of winter rides are serenity, beauty, and quiet environments. The stillness and wonder of winter landscapes, whether snowy forests or frost-covered roads, can provide a unique connection with nature that’s quite different from warmer seasons.
For Comfortable Winter Riding
- Check your bike before every ride: It is important that you check your bike before every ride, so that you can ensure that it is in good working condition. This will help keep you safe and prevent any accidents from happening.
- Wear layers: You should wear a layer of clothing on top of your regular clothes when cycling in winter as this will help keep your body warm and dry during the ride.
- Wear gloves: When riding in winter, it is important to wear gloves so that you do not end up with frozen hands while cycling.
- Be visible at all times – your bike and your clothes should be easy to spot and be seen on the roads.
- Cycle slowly: When cycling in winter, it is necessary to go slow and steady. The roads might not be as clear as you would like from ice and snow. So take is slow.
- Be careful and have fun cycling in the winter!
I hope you found this information helpful. Check out my other related posts such as changing your bike’s jockey wheel, interval training for cyclists, and Guide to Buying Used Bikes. We also recorded a relevant podcast on workout motivation and barriers to motivation and encouraging mindset.
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