Winter Cycling Guide: What to Wear & Essential Layering Tips

Cycling proves to be an excellent way to stay in top shape during the chilly winter months. For an even more enjoyable experience while minimizing the risk of accidents, Cycle Tribe has condensed a comprehensive article. Dive into our guide on what to wear when venturing onto icy roads with essential tips on layering, including the Upper Body Layer System—comprising a base layer, mid-layer, and outer shell—as well as the Lower Body Layer System. We provide practical examples to help you understand each layer’s role.

Cycling Through Winter: Layer Up for Warmth

When the weather outside is frightful, you don't have to give up your cycling habit. Just dress for the cold! Follow our tips to help you stay warm and comfortable on your winter rides.

Wearing multiple layers of clothing will trap heat better than one thick layer. Start with a base layer of synthetic material (such as polyester) next to your skin, followed by a middle layer of wool or fleece. Top it off with a windproof and waterproof outer layer.

Cover Up & Don't Forget the Essentials

Don't forget to cover your head, hands, and feet. A good quality pair of cycling gloves will keep your hands warm, while wool or synthetic balaclava will protect your face from the cold wind. Wool socks and overshoes will keep your feet warm, even when wet.

In addition to dressing for the cold, make sure you have all the essential items for a safe and comfortable ride. These include a well-maintained bike, proper lights (if riding at night or in low-light conditions), and reflective gear to help you be seen by drivers.

What to Wear On Your Head?

One of the most important things to consider when it comes to cold-weather cycling is what to wear on your head. A balaclava or ski mask can also be helpful in protecting your face from the cold in extreme conditions. Neck warmers are a must throughout the cold season.

Some affordable options include the Altura Skull Cap, which fits snugly under a helmet for extra warmth, the Altura Windproof Headband is great for keeping your forehead and ears warm, while the Altura Neck Warmer provides vital protection for your neck. These items can make a big difference in staying comfortable without breaking the bank.

Altura-Skull-DWR-Cap

What to Wear On Your Body?

Assuming you're not just going for a quick jaunt around the block when temperatures drop you need to start thinking about what to wear on your body. The first layer should be something that wicks moisture away from your skin, like wool or synthetic fabrics. You don't want anything too bulky that will make pedalling harder than it needs to be.

The second layer is where you can start to add some insulation. Again, you don't want anything too bulky or you'll have a hard time moving. A winter thermal cycling jersey is perfect.

The third and final layer is your windproof and waterproof layer. This is what's going to keep you warm and dry when the weather takes a turn for the worse. A good cycling jacket and winter thermal tights will do the trick, but make sure they're breathable so you don't end up sweating inside them.

Upper Body Layer System Example

A practical setup might include the Altura Merino 50 Baselayer, suitable for both men and women, a Long-Sleeve Cycling Jersey, and the Rogelli Rain Wind Jacket for excellent wind and rain protection.

Altura-Merino-Wool-Base-Layer

Another option is the Rogelli Long Sleeve Base-Layers combined with the Northwave Reload Winter Jacket, a softshell jacket that offers both warmth and weather resistance.

Northwave-Reload-Winter-Jacket

Lower Body Layer System

For the legs, cycling tights made from lycra are essential as they are comfortable, stretchable, and, most importantly, warm. While some cyclists opt to wear shorts year-round, this approach is not recommended for the faint-hearted. Many seasoned cyclists prefer bib tights, like the Northwave Force 2 Bibtights, which offer additional support and comfort. Waist tights are also a good option and provide adequate protection against the cold.

What About Gloves and Socks?

Assuming you're still reading this and haven't given up in a flurry of frosty rage, let's move on to the next question: the best advice to keep hands and feet warm?

For your hands, gloves are essential to prevent numb fingers. A popular choice is the Altura Nightvision Windproof Gloves. For more options and a detailed comparison, check out our guide to winter gloves for cyclists.

As for your feet, merino wool socks are indispensable for staying warm during the winter months. A great example is the Northwave Husky Merino Wool Socks, which provide excellent insulation and comfort.

What are the Best Shoe Options to Keep My Feet Warm?

When selecting winter cycling shoes, consider three key features: insulation, waterproofing, and traction. Insulated and waterproof shoes will keep your feet warm and dry, while good traction helps prevent slipping on icy roads. Comfort is also crucial, especially if you’ll be spending extended periods outdoors during the winter.

One excellent option is the Lake CX146 Wide Fit Winter Boots. These shoes feature a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex liner, ensuring your feet stay dry and warm. They also have a Vibram outsole for superior traction and are compatible with both two-bolt and three-bolt cleats. 

Another choice to consider is the Castelli Entrata Cycling Shoe Covers. These provide wind and splash protection with fleece insulation to keep your feet warm. The molded center stretch panel allows for easy ankle movement, making them a practical addition to your winter cycling gear.

Castelli-Entrata-Shoe-Covers

No Matter What!

There are a lot of options when it comes to keeping your feet warm while cycling in cold weather. You can choose to wear thicker socks, use toe covers or shoe covers, or even invest in a pair of electric sock liners. Some people prefer to just tough it out and keep pedalling, but if you're looking for a little extra warmth, these are some great options.

FAQ

For winter cycling, layer your clothing starting with a moisture-wicking base layer, followed by an insulating middle layer, and a windproof, waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget to cover your extremities with gloves, a hat, and warm socks.

Layering helps trap heat more effectively than a single thick layer. It allows you to adjust your clothing according to changing temperatures and activity levels, keeping you warm and comfortable.

Choose a base layer made from synthetic materials like polyester or merino wool. These fabrics wick moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and warm.

Opt for a balaclava or ski mask to protect your face and a warm hat or skull cap to fit under your helmet. A neck warmer is also essential to keep your neck protected.

The Altura Nightvision Windproof Gloves are highly recommended. They offer excellent warmth and wind protection. For more options, refer to guides on winter cycling gloves.

Wear insulated and waterproof winter cycling shoes, like the Lake CX146 Wide Fit Winter Boots, and use merino wool socks. Shoe covers and even electric sock liners can provide extra warmth.

A good winter cycling jacket should be windproof and waterproof while also being breathable. This helps protect against the elements while preventing overheating from sweat.

Typically, you should wear three layers: a base layer that wicks moisture, a middle layer for insulation, and an outer layer for wind and water resistance. This layering system allows you to adjust your clothing according to temperature changes and activity levels.

For the middle layer, materials like wool, fleece, or specialized thermal fabrics are ideal. They provide the necessary insulation to retain body heat while remaining breathable.

Be prepared to adjust your layers based on your activity level and temperature changes. You can unzip or remove your outer layer if you get too warm, or add more insulation if conditions become colder.

While a single thick layer might seem convenient, it’s generally less effective than a layered system. Multiple layers trap heat better and allow for more flexibility in managing body temperature and moisture.

Yes, cycling tights made from lycra or similar materials are ideal for warmth and flexibility. Many cyclists prefer bib tights, such as the Northwave Force 2 Bibtights, for added comfort and support.

A windproof headband helps keep your forehead and ears warm while allowing for breathability. It’s a great addition to your winter cycling gear for extra protection.

Look for shoes that are well-insulated, waterproof, and have good traction. The Lake CX146 Wide Fit Winter Boots are a good example, featuring a Gore-Tex liner and Vibram outsole for warmth and grip.

Yes, toe covers are a practical option for adding warmth to your feet. They are less bulky than full shoe covers and can be used to supplement your winter cycling gear.

Opt for merino wool or high-quality synthetic socks that provide good insulation, moisture-wicking properties, and fit comfortably inside your cycling shoes.

Electric sock liners can provide extra warmth, especially on extremely cold days. They are a good investment if you often cycle in harsh winter conditions.

A neck warmer protects your neck from cold winds and helps maintain overall body warmth. It can be easily adjusted or removed as needed during your ride.

Make sure your gear includes layers that can be adjusted for comfort, is made from appropriate materials for insulation and moisture control, and fits well to avoid restricting movement.

Conclusion

When it comes to cycling in cold weather, there are a few key things to keep in mind in order to stay comfortable and safe. First, layering is key. You'll want to have a base layer that wicks away sweat, a middle layer for insulation, and an outer layer that protects you from the wind and elements. Second, make sure your extremities are covered.

This means wearing gloves, a hat, and socks that cover your ankles. And finally, don't forget about your feet! Invest in some good winter boots or shoe covers to keep your toes from turning into ice cubes.

We’d love to hear about your experiences with winter cycling and any additional tips you might have. Share your thoughts in the comments below. Happy cycling, and stay safe and warm!

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