Winter bike commuting

I wrote briefly about winter bike commuting in the past, and now that we are in the thick of the winter I thought that I would write about it briefly again and post some helpful videos.

I ride 6 miles to work, and 6 miles back. Most of the time, I’m riding home late at night, often times around 11 or 12 at night, when the night temperatures are slowly dropping, and staying warm becomes increasingly important. This is very important as well for many people who are bike commuting in the early morning when the sun has barely warmed the earth. I don’t like to be cold when I ride, I prefer to be too hot although many people may not agree.

Layering is very important, and choosing the right clothing for your ride couldn’t be stressed more if you are riding in the cold, at night, and especially longer distances. Dressing properly is not difficult, and can be often times done with items you already own, however, picking up a few new items specific to winter bike riding is not a bad idea.

How I layer up!

How to dress for winter bike commuting

Every day, I wear a first layer of moisture-wicking active wear. My favorite top made by Under Armour, covers up to half of my neck, is very warm, but it breathes and keeps me dry. Under Armour can be quite expensive, I was lucky to have been able to purchase mine on the cheap at Marshalls, however, I have some moisture wicking bottom layers that I also found at Target for a fair price. Paying a bit more though, for something that will last, and be comfortable is not a bad idea.

I find that the Under Armour Cold Gear is great because once I arrive to work and remove it I’m still dry, so no shower needed before changing right into my work clothing.

Other than that I usually wear:

• 1 Pair of Wool Socks (you may choose to wear multiple)
• Any comfortable pair of pants
• A sweater or hoodie
• A scarf
• A hat
• Gloves (you may want glove liners and gloves or mittens)
• A warm winter coat
• Shoes or boots

Depending on the weather you can modify how you layer up. Sometimes instead of the winter coat I just wear a windbreaker. Step outside and check the weather before you leave, and always take an extra layer with you just in case you need it.

Dotty from Lets Go Ride A Bike has a great video on dressing up in layers for your commute here:

It’s also important to have proper lighting and take care of your bike in the winter time. This next video has some great all around tips for bicycle riding in the winter:

Have fun riding in the winter and be safe!

Ezra