Winter cycling requires proper preparation and gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride in cold weather. Understanding the challenges of winter riding, such as wind chill and wet weather, is crucial for a successful cold-weather cycling experience.
Either you are cycling for long trips or shorter rides, wither riding on a new or old bike, either it clean road, or gravel roads, these cycling tips will give you more benefit to staying warm.
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Investing in the right clothing and accessories, including a waterproof jacket and warm socks, can make a huge difference in staying warm and comfortable during winter cycling.
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Cycling in cold weather can be invigorating, but it’s essential to take necessary precautions to avoid cold-related issues, such as frostbite and hypothermia.
This guide is designed for cyclists of all levels who want to ride safely and comfortably in cold weather.'
Whether you ride for sport, commuting, or fun, following these practices helps you avoid injury and enjoy riding year-round.
If you're exploring performance wear for colder rides, check out the PAS Studios, designed for comfort and efficiency in harsh conditions:
Start your ride with pre-ride preparation and be safe in the winter cycling.
Base layers
Choosing the right base layer ensures you stay dry, warm, and comfortable throughout your winter cycling sessions, making it an essential piece of winter wear for cycling. Key benefits include:
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Wicks moisture away from the skin
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Regulates body temperature by trapping warm air
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Prevents sweat from chilling the body
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Maintains dryness and comfort during rides
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Made from materials like merino wool or high-performance synthetics
For extreme cold winter cycling, layer moisture-wicking synthetics or merino wool base layers, insulated thermal bibs, and a wind/waterproof shell.
Bib shorts or tights
For winter cycling, bib tights are a popular choice to keep your legs warm and protected from cold air and wet weather. Unlike regular bib shorts, bib tights extend down to cover your entire legs, often featuring thermal base layers that provide insulation and retain warmth during cold rides. They are typically made from water-resistant and windproof materials, helping to shield you from the elements while maintaining breathability to prevent overheating.
Thermal bib tights often have reinforced padding for long rides, ensuring maximum comfort even on rough local trails or extended cycling sessions. Many models include reflective details to improve visibility in low light conditions common during the winter months. Some bib tights also incorporate soft shell panels on the front to block cold wind while allowing flexibility and movement.
Pairing bib tights with appropriate winter cycling shoes or shoe covers helps to keep your feet warm and dry, protecting against cold feet and moisture. Overall, investing in high-performance bib tights is essential for cyclists aiming to stay comfortable and protected during cold weather cycling.
Cyclists should wear a mid-layer to create a pocket of warm air.
Tip: For below-freezing temperatures, thermal bib tights with a brushed-fleece backing are ideal for warmth.
Read more about Bibs vs Shorts for cycling
Cycling jersey
A cycling jersey is a vital component of your winter cycling gear, designed to provide comfort, breathability, and moisture management during your ride. While jerseys are typically associated with warmer weather, winter cycling jerseys are specifically made from thicker, insulating materials that help retain heat while still allowing sweat to evaporate. These jerseys often feature long sleeves and a close fit to trap body heat and reduce wind exposure.
Many winter cycling jerseys incorporate windproof panels on the front and sleeves to protect against cold air, while the back may use more breathable fabric to prevent overheating and moisture buildup. Reflective elements are commonly added to enhance visibility during the shorter daylight hours of the winter season.
Layering a cycling jersey under an outer layer, such as a soft shell or waterproof jacket, allows you to adjust your clothing to changing weather conditions and exertion levels. Choosing the right cycling jersey ensures you maintain optimal body temperature, stay dry, and enjoy maximum comfort on your cold weather rides.
Read more about accessories for cycling jerseys
Arm and leg warmers
Arm and leg warmers are versatile and essential accessories for cold weather cycling gear, offering extra protection and warmth without the need for a full jacket or tights. They are especially useful during variable weather conditions or transitional seasons when temperatures fluctuate throughout the day.
Arm warmers are typically made from stretchy, insulating materials that fit snugly over your arms, providing a layer of warmth while allowing freedom of movement. They help protect against cold air and wind chill, preventing heat loss from exposed skin. Many arm warmers feature moisture-wicking fabrics to keep sweat away from the skin, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable during your ride.
Leg warmers serve a similar purpose, sliding over your legs to add insulation and shield against cold air, especially when temperatures drop but you prefer to wear regular cycling shorts. They are often made from thermal, windproof, and water-resistant materials, making them ideal for cold rides where full bib tights might feel too warm or restrictive.
Both arm and leg warmers are easy to put on or remove as conditions change, making them practical for long rides where layering flexibility is key. Additionally, many designs include reflective details to enhance visibility in low light conditions common during winter cycling.
Incorporating arm and leg warmers into your cycling clothing system allows you to dress appropriately for cold temps, ensuring you maintain warmth and comfort without overheating. They complement other winter cycling gear such as base layers, winter jackets, and gloves, providing comprehensive protection against the elements while riding.
Tip: Wool socks, neoprene shoe covers, and heavy mittens or ski gloves help to maintain warmth in extreme cold cycling conditions.
Gilet
A gilet, also known as a cycling vest, is a versatile piece of winter wear for cycling that provides an additional layer of insulation without restricting arm movement. It is typically sleeveless and designed to be lightweight yet warm, making it ideal for layering over base layers or jerseys during cold rides.
Gilets are often made from windproof and water-resistant materials that help block cold air and light precipitation, helping to maintain your core warmth. Because they lack sleeves, they allow for excellent ventilation and freedom of movement, which is especially beneficial during intense efforts or variable weather conditions.
Many cycling gilets feature reflective details to enhance visibility during low light conditions common in the winter months. They can be easily packed into a jersey pocket when the temperature rises or when you start to warm up during your ride.
Using a gilet as part of your layering system can help you stay comfortable by providing targeted warmth to your torso while allowing your arms to regulate temperature more effectively. This makes it a popular choice for cyclists who want to balance insulation and breathability during cold weather cycling.
Soft shell jacket
A soft shell jacket is an essential piece of winter wear for cycling, offering a perfect balance between protection and breathability. Unlike hard shell jackets, soft shells are made from flexible, stretchable materials that provide excellent freedom of movement, making them ideal for active cyclists. These jackets are designed to block wind and repel light rain or snow, keeping you comfortable during cold rides without causing overheating.
Soft shell jackets typically feature water-resistant and windproof fabrics that shield you from the elements while allowing moisture and sweat to escape. This breathability is crucial for maintaining comfort during intense cycling sessions in cold weather. Many soft shell jackets also include thermal insulation or fleece lining, which adds warmth without excessive bulk.
Additional features often found in cycling-specific soft shell jackets include longer backs for better coverage in riding positions, adjustable cuffs to seal out cold air, and reflective details to enhance visibility in low light conditions common during winter months. Some models come with zippered vents to regulate temperature as needed.
Pairing a soft shell jacket with appropriate base layers and mid-layers ensures optimal temperature regulation and protection against wind chill and wet weather. It serves as a versatile outer layer for various winter cycling conditions, from chilly dry days to light precipitation, making it a valuable addition to your cold weather cycling gear.
Tip: A balaclava that covers the entire head, ears, neck, and lower face minimizes exposed skin in extreme cold.
Waterproof jacket
A waterproof jacket is an essential piece of winter wear for cycling, particularly when dealing with wet and windy conditions. These jackets are crafted to keep you dry by preventing rain, sleet, and snow from penetrating your inner layers, thereby avoiding discomfort and chills. Important features to consider include fully taped seams to block water infiltration, breathable fabrics that allow perspiration to escape, and windproof properties to guard against cold air and wind chill.
Additional design elements such as adjustable cuffs, high collars, and helmet-compatible hoods help seal out drafts and retain warmth, while reflective accents enhance visibility during the reduced daylight hours typical of winter. Wearing moisture-wicking base layers and insulating mid-layers beneath your waterproof jacket helps regulate your body temperature and maintain comfort, making this jacket an indispensable outer layer for cycling in cold weather.
To effectively protect your hands and feet—areas most susceptible to cold and moisture—invest in insulated, waterproof, and windproof gloves and shoe covers. Fabrics like Gore-Tex offer excellent protection while allowing breathability to minimize sweat accumulation. For extremely cold conditions, lobster claw mittens provide extra warmth without compromising dexterity, and thermal or wool socks, particularly those made from merino wool, offer insulation and moisture-wicking benefits for your feet.
Additionally, wearing a skull cap or thermal hat under your helmet helps retain head heat, while neck warmers shield your neck and lower face from cold winds. Combining these accessories with a high-quality waterproof jacket and proper layering ensures you remain warm, dry, and comfortable during winter cycling, allowing you to ride safely and confidently throughout the season.
Stop getting cold hands and feet
Cold hands and feet are among the most common and uncomfortable issues faced by winter cyclists. When exposed to cold air and wet conditions, your extremities lose heat quickly, leading to numbness, discomfort, and even frostbite in extreme cases. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies and gear options to keep your hands and feet warm during winter rides.
Tip: Dedicated winter cycling boots are recommended for cold feet to accommodate clipless pedals and warm socks.
Winter cycling gloves and mittens
Choosing the right winter cycling gloves is essential to protect your hands from cold and wet weather. Look for gloves that are insulated, waterproof, and windproof to provide maximum protection. Materials like Gore-Tex or other high-performance membranes offer excellent waterproofing while allowing breathability to prevent sweat buildup inside the gloves.
For extremely cold days, consider lobster claw mittens or mitts that group fingers together to retain more heat while still allowing for some dexterity. Some gloves come with touchscreen-compatible fingertips, so you can operate your devices without exposing your skin to the cold.
Layering gloves is another option: a thin liner glove under a waterproof insulated outer glove can provide added warmth and flexibility.
Winter cycling shoe covers and socks
Keeping your feet warm is equally important. Winter cycling shoes with insulation and waterproofing are ideal, but if you already have regular cycling shoes, winter shoe covers are a practical and cost-effective solution. These covers slip over your shoes, blocking wind, rain, and snow to keep your feet dry and warm.
Pair your shoe covers with thermal or wool cycling socks that provide insulation and wick moisture away from your skin. Materials like merino wool are excellent for warmth and moisture management, helping to keep your feet comfortable throughout your ride.
Additional tips for warm extremities
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Use chemical or electric hand warmers inside your gloves and shoe covers for extra heat on very cold rides.
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Ensure your gloves and shoe covers fit well but are not too tight, as constriction can reduce circulation and make your hands and feet colder.
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Keep your core warm with proper layering, as your body will prioritize blood flow to vital organs, which can leave extremities colder if you are underdressed.
By investing in the right gear and taking preventive measures, you can stop getting cold hands and feet and enjoy your winter cycling rides with comfort and confidence.
Tip: The Velocio Alpha Zero is recommended as one of the warmest jackets for sub-zero temperatures.
Hat or skull cap
Wearing a hat or skull cap under your helmet is an essential part of winter wear for cycling, as it helps keep your head warm and protected from cold air and wind chill. The head is a significant area where the body loses heat, so covering it effectively can make a big difference in overall comfort during cold rides.
Skull caps designed for cycling are typically made from thermal, moisture-wicking materials that fit snugly under helmets without adding bulk. They provide insulation while allowing sweat to evaporate, preventing overheating and moisture buildup. Many skull caps also feature flat seams to reduce pressure points and enhance comfort during long rides.
For extremely cold or wet conditions, consider hats or skull caps made with windproof or water-resistant fabrics. Some models incorporate fleece lining or thermal panels for added warmth, while still maintaining breathability.
In addition to skull caps, thermal cycling hats that cover the ears provide extra protection against chilly winds. These hats are often thin enough to wear comfortably under helmets and help prevent heat loss from the ears, which are particularly vulnerable to frostbite.
Choosing the right headwear as part of your winter cycling gear ensures you stay warm, comfortable, and focused on your ride, even in the coldest weather.
Neck warmer
A neck warmer is an essential accessory for winter wear for cycling, providing crucial protection against cold air, wind chill, and moisture around one of the most exposed parts of your body. Unlike scarves, neck warmers are designed to fit snugly and securely around your neck, preventing cold drafts from sneaking in while you ride.
Most neck warmers are made from thermal, moisture-wicking materials such as fleece, merino wool, or high-performance synthetic fabrics. These materials trap heat effectively while allowing sweat to evaporate, keeping you dry and comfortable even during intense cycling sessions. Some neck warmers also feature windproof panels or water-resistant coatings for added protection in harsh weather conditions.
Neck warmers are versatile and easy to adjust, allowing you to pull them up over your chin or lower face for extra coverage when temperatures drop or wind picks up. They can also be quickly removed or lowered when you warm up, making them a practical layering piece for variable winter weather.
In addition to warmth, neck warmers can help protect your skin from chapping and frostbite by shielding it from cold, dry air. They are lightweight, compact, and easy to carry in a jersey pocket, making them a convenient and effective part of your cold weather cycling gear.
Incorporating a neck warmer into your winter cycling wardrobe ensures comprehensive protection against the elements, helping you stay comfortable and focused on your ride regardless of the weather.
Conclusion
Winter wear for cycling is essential to ensure comfort, safety, and performance during cold weather rides. By investing in high-quality winter cycling gear such as thermal base layers, bib tights, winter jackets, and waterproof outer layers, cyclists can effectively protect themselves from cold air, wind chill, and wet weather. Proper layering, including base layers that wick moisture, insulating mid-layers, and protective outer shells, helps maintain optimal body temperature and prevents overheating or chilling. Accessories like winter gloves, shoe covers, skull caps, and neck warmers play a crucial role in keeping extremities warm and protected.
Choosing gear made from high performance materials such as merino wool and breathable waterproof fabrics enhances comfort and durability, allowing cyclists to stay warm and dry on long rides in winter conditions. Additionally, reflective details on clothing improve visibility during the shorter daylight hours of the winter months, increasing safety on the road.
By understanding the function of each clothing layer and selecting appropriate winter cycling gear, riders can enjoy cold weather cycling without sacrificing comfort or performance. Whether you are commuting, training, or enjoying recreational rides on local trails, the right winter wear for cycling ensures you stay warm, dry, and comfortable, making your winter rides more enjoyable and safe.
Embrace the winter season confidently with the right cycling clothing system, and keep riding year-round regardless of the weather.