What To Wear For Winter Cycling - How To Dress For A Bike Ride In Winter

How do you dress for cycling in the winter months? Daniel Lloyd explains all.

Good clothing can make the difference between enjoying yourself and suffering on a winter ride. Layering correctly and using the right kit really makes a difference. But, it's not just the kit you have, but how you wear it. Daniel Lloyd gives his pro-tips for winter layering and clothing, gained over years of training in rainy Britain throughout the winter months.

Why not comment and let us know your top tips for winter riding?!

About GCN:

The Global Cycling Network puts you in the centre of the action: from the iconic summit of the Stelvio to the epic trails of Fort William, Scotland, everywhere there is pavé or dirt, world-class racing, and pro riders, we will be there bringing you all the action, essential analysis and unparalleled access every week, every month, and every year.

Welcome to the Global Cycling Network | Inside cycling

Leave us a comment below!
Music - licensed by Cue Songs

[gcn]

I've used ones for (whisper it) running in the past - they're usually cheaper than cycling specific ones and just as good.

[gcn]

He had borrowed mine (James') which had all the money spent on rather nice Mavic Cosmic Carbone wheels! It's actually a nice bike though, full carbon frame and Ultegra throughout.

[gcn]

Leg warmers mean that you get warm legs, but the bits that aren't covered by them - namely *your* bits - get cold, so you're better off with tights.

[stevezissou]

I want you guys to ride in the winter here in Minnesota; these winters are arctic. Great video!

[Torontoflatlander]

I've started showing these videos to my customers at my shop. They're perfect, keep up the amazing work!

[vrv]

My two best purchases for riding below zero:
1) Mavic Propane jacket - ridiculously warm, I usually ride with just a long sleeve base layer underneath it. Also has a face mask attached to it.

2) Winter cycling boots boots, half a size up from usual. Allows you to wear thicker socks without limiting circulation.

[uchidaoginome]

I'm in the northeastern U.S., where we get snow, ice...all that! Most of these tips apply. Of course if your winter is particularly harsh, you'll have to consult with the staff at your LBS but GCN's tips here are a great start.

[davidolsen]

Very informative. Living in the Midwestern United States, our winters can be quite brutal. Today it the high temperature is -2 F outside, which adds a whole level of new challenges when venturing out. What you fellas are demonstrating is good down to around 30F roughly. The diving gloves are a great idea, I've never considered that! I commute to work most days, as long as the trails have been cleared of snow. This winter we have close to two feet of snow sitting on the ground, and the frost is 3 feet into the March. Last year at this time I was out riding in shirt sleeves! Thanks for the informative video!

[ShortieLeeroy]

Top tips guys.Two pairs of gloves are fine for me.The first pair with soft fleeceing on the inside.

[cuttski]

Or take up mtb during the winter months, it's a great buzz hitting the single tracks within a woods during the winter nights as well . Much fun to be had. That's how I get my winter miles in. 😀😀😀

[dougcalder]

Louis garneau plastron base-layer is worth buying.. also America has a product called "hot hands" it is an air activated packet that produced heat for 6-8 hours. I use a lanyard with an I.D. style clip to keep packet close to the chest. And lastly, the motorcycle clothing has a fleece neck warmer with fleece extending to mid chest area. I hope this suggestion helps.

[nelsonl]

We don't have that issue in Puerto Rico the coldest weather on winter is around 60℉ so it's practically summer all year. The joy of living in the tropic. :-) Happy cycling.

[jonahconner]

1] inner layer thin and tight lycra 2] insulating layer of fleece or something thick 3] outer shell totally plastic/windproof but looser fitting with full zipper. Yeah it catches more wind but way more comfortable. I commute all winter in Wisconsin - well below freezing and always snow, but it works with the right equipment.

[Smetwork]

I ride down to approx -25C.

Most important thing that I can't be without is good gloves. Clothes is pretty same as your recomendations. Windproof top layer is recomended.

[EeroSoralahti]

1) don't save on spikes: at least 200 spikes front&back; go for premium brands for mental confidence
2) follow the weather history over several days, especially if it is hovering around freezing & adjust your route and style accordingly
3) lower PSIs in tyres and suspensions to reduce understeering in soft snow
4) test breaks and gears early in the ride before you need them
5) fast sprint in the beginning to warm big leg muscles, which then provide heat for the rest of body = less clothes needed

[ChmGk]

Loved the bit with the glasses; informative and hilarious.

[TheJacklamb]

Great videos cant get enough of them...my rule in Ontario Canada for cold riding is "when the clothes weigh more than the bike its time to ride the indoor trainer" :-)

[wibblemania]

I have worn kit similar to that in the video down to about -10C in the UK although I have never found overshoes adequate (any brand, any layer combination, any sock combination) and my winter riding was transformed by some Northwave boots.

[dholmdahl]

Lab glasses is a great way to get a pair of clear lenses for rainy rides. Often just $4 or less. 

[BetahProductions]

Love the three glasses while you talk so professionally haha