As the saying goes, there is no bad weather just bad gear. Winter in the Chicagoland area graces us with weeks of temps that are sub-freezing (see bikewinter.org). With the right clothing, you’ll be riding in 20 degree or colder temperatures and laughing bravely when the mercury is in the 30’s.
Yeah, you’ve heard of layering before, but are you wearing the right stuff?
Your cycling body is the engine of your machine as well as the furnace that keeps you warm. Your clothing must do an effective job of retaining heat and eliminating moisture. Three different types of garments is all you need. Wear them in varying combinations to work toward ultimate comfort in all conditions.
Base Layer: Under Armour is effective at wicking the moisture away from your body. Choose a similar product and pick a snug fit to optimize the fabric’s moisture movement technology.
Mid Layer: A micro fleece, or soft shell fabric works here. Choose a piece that has a higher collar and a “half zip” to use when you heat up. The idea here is to create a thermal layer that keeps you warm. The mid-layer will accept the moisture from your base-layer and wick it away to be evaporated.
Shell: Most folks look at a shell and wonder how the heck they will stay warm in something that is so light--something that reminds them of a Sring jacket. A good shell will block wind, retain heat, vent/breath moisture, and in some cases, block rain.
Cotton Kills! Cotton does an excellent job of retaining sweat and inviting hypothermia--not good. Need a natural fabric? Choose wool, it is the original technical fabric and happens to be the only material that still keeps you warm when it is wet.
Bring your extremities into the extreme. It is really tough to recommend specific hand and foot gear, as folks tolerances vary widely. Here are some products that work:
Hands: buy a pair of light “glove liners” made of a wicking fabric. Look for a pair that has gripper material on the palm so you may ride safely with this pair alone. Then choose a winter cycling glove that can be worn with or without your liners, depending on the temperature. The “lobster claw” type uses the buddy system to allow your fingers to be paired off and warm.
Feet: use a thin base layer sock with a wool hiking sock over it. Make sure that you loosen your shoes, or buy new ones that allow for the extra sock material. Shoes that are too tight do not allow air layering and thus make your feet freeze. Booties made of neoprene fit over your shoes, but allow your cleats to stick through. They block wind and cold. A less extreme version comes in the form of toe covers. Fleece-lined neoprene socks are needed for the coldest days.
Hand and foot warmer packets may be inserted accordingly--some folks say these help tons on sub zero days!
Yeah, you’ve heard of layering before, but are you wearing the right stuff?
Your cycling body is the engine of your machine as well as the furnace that keeps you warm. Your clothing must do an effective job of retaining heat and eliminating moisture. Three different types of garments is all you need. Wear them in varying combinations to work toward ultimate comfort in all conditions.
Base Layer: Under Armour is effective at wicking the moisture away from your body. Choose a similar product and pick a snug fit to optimize the fabric’s moisture movement technology.
Mid Layer: A micro fleece, or soft shell fabric works here. Choose a piece that has a higher collar and a “half zip” to use when you heat up. The idea here is to create a thermal layer that keeps you warm. The mid-layer will accept the moisture from your base-layer and wick it away to be evaporated.
Shell: Most folks look at a shell and wonder how the heck they will stay warm in something that is so light--something that reminds them of a Sring jacket. A good shell will block wind, retain heat, vent/breath moisture, and in some cases, block rain.
Cotton Kills! Cotton does an excellent job of retaining sweat and inviting hypothermia--not good. Need a natural fabric? Choose wool, it is the original technical fabric and happens to be the only material that still keeps you warm when it is wet.
Bring your extremities into the extreme. It is really tough to recommend specific hand and foot gear, as folks tolerances vary widely. Here are some products that work:
Hands: buy a pair of light “glove liners” made of a wicking fabric. Look for a pair that has gripper material on the palm so you may ride safely with this pair alone. Then choose a winter cycling glove that can be worn with or without your liners, depending on the temperature. The “lobster claw” type uses the buddy system to allow your fingers to be paired off and warm.
Feet: use a thin base layer sock with a wool hiking sock over it. Make sure that you loosen your shoes, or buy new ones that allow for the extra sock material. Shoes that are too tight do not allow air layering and thus make your feet freeze. Booties made of neoprene fit over your shoes, but allow your cleats to stick through. They block wind and cold. A less extreme version comes in the form of toe covers. Fleece-lined neoprene socks are needed for the coldest days.
Hand and foot warmer packets may be inserted accordingly--some folks say these help tons on sub zero days!
1 comment:
Informative! Humorous! Very well written! Look forward to the next addition to the blog.
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