Dressing for Winter Cycling

The following tips are for above-freezing temperatures. If you plan to ride your bike in below-freezing temperatures, we refer you to the experts: http://www.icebike.org

Do wear

· Several thin, light layers

· A windbreaker or light jacket to keep the wind out

· Cycling or running tights

· Synthetic base layers that wick away moisture, such as polypropylene

· Wool or synthetic mid and outer layers

· A balaclava or cap underneath your helmet

· Wool socks and shoe covers (“booties”)

· Winter gloves or mittens

Don’t wear

· Heavy, bulky clothing

· Ski parkas or outback jackets

· Jeans

· Cotton t-shirts

· Cotton socks

· Boots

Tips

· As a rule of thumb, when properly dressed for winter riding, you may feel slightly chilly for the first 15 minutes of riding; you should then feel quite comfortable as your body starts to generate its own heat.

· Avoid cotton clothing in the winter, as it gets cold and clammy when you sweat. The same base layers you use for skiing can often be used for winter cycling.

· Order your winter cycling clothing through the merchant links on our web site. Retailers featured on our site will donate 5% of your order to the club, which helps us maintain our web site and support club activities.