Winter clothing - Page 2

Wear multiple layers of thin material. Don't wear anything bulky or heavy.

Thanks, just got the UnderArmour "ColdGear. Haven't tried it yet.

Under Armour | Men's Fitted ColdGear 1/4 Zip | 1204171 | $59.99

First time for me riding in the winter. My only concern is keeping my face from freezing. From reading these posts doesn't seem to be a problem? Worst situation I expect to encounter is 20 degrees F and riding downhills at 27 mph. Thinking about a ski mask. Any thoughts appreciated.

I'm definitely interested to read these posts. Early morning (late-October) rides in Maine have become very cold (starting at 27 - 32 degrees). Now, I layer as a skier might - on top - Helly Hansen base top layer (with turtle neck), light fleece vest, full-zip wind-resistent (reflective) jacket. On bottom, if really cold - helly hansen breathable long underwear - otherwise, leg warmers for 30 plus degree days + bike shorts. A Descente "cold-out" skull cap that covers ears (the best!). Light ski socks and Descente booties.

" A old man lived in Maine all his life. His property was surveyed one day and he was told that it's actually in NH. Thnak God he said, I can't stand those Maine winters any longer."

So, no problem with frozen faces it seems. I'll need to get a skull cap and them I'm all set.

Thanks

Up here in the Great White North 40F is regarded as balmy in winter.

Winter cycling is best approached clothed similarly to cross-country skiing, but wind chill is even more of a factor and, as others have noted, overheating is to be avoided at all costs.

Agree that layering is the way to go, beginning with a base layer of polyester or wool.

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VeloWeb The bicycle is the noblest invention of mankind.
~William Saroyan

I just put on my long johns under my typical ride get up and get moving. The movment warms me up.

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TwoSpoke Bike & Cycling Forum

For the face and neck in temps down to freezing, I use a lightweight balaclava hood of stretchy lycra/poly. It goes on right under the helmet. Can be pulled up to cover the nose and mouth to start, then pull down under the chin when you warm up. Performance and Nashbar sell them.

Another trick I use in addition to toe covers or shoe covers is to place a plastic baggie under the shoe insoles. This helps block the cold air coming in via the sole vents and cleats where the shoe/toe cover won't cover.

In central Virginia, we never know what to expect in the fall and winter. One day it may be 45F and 1 or 2 days later, it can be 20 to 30 degrees higher. And for most of the winter, the colder it gets, the more the wind seems to blow. 3 weeks ago I needed 2 layers, a jacket, warm gloves and tights. The following weekend, I was back in shorts and short sleeves. From low 40s to low 50s I'll wear tights over shorts, a good wicking base layer, a mid weight long sleeve jersey and a shell to keep the wind out. At warmer temps, I'll opt for a light weight jersey. In the 60s I'll skip the base layer. When the temp falls to 40 I'll wear one more layer, a Head Sweats cap and either liner gloves or more likely a full fingered wind proof glove. A little colder and I use a balaclava instead of the cap and sometimes I'll use a helmet cover to block the wind. Keeping the feet warm is my problem. I think it's best to use 2 thin socks rather than 1 thick pair. I know a lot of people ride in much colder weather, but, for me, the closer it gets to freezing, the less inclined I am to ride.

By far, the very best piece of winter gear I have is a neck gaitor.

Here's one.

Thermal Underwear Neck Gator, LOWEST PRICES on Thermal Neck Gators

Bunch from REI

neck gaitor at REI.com