Winter Riding Part 3

Selecting a bike for winter riding and getting it set-up appropriately (part 1 and 2 or Winter Riding) are important steps toward riding all year. However, I've left probably the most important part of riding in the winter, staying warm, for last. Selecting the correct clothes for riding in the cold can make or break riding through the winter. Dressing correctly will not only keep you warm it will also keep you comfortable and, when needed, safer.

Here at Williamson Bicycle Works we feel that the key to staying warm is layering. Using a good base layer and building from there will keep you warm and dry longer and will feel less bulky than a huge coat will.

Starting with a good base layer is key, One of our favorites is Sugoi's Wallaroo Merino Wool piece.

Another good one is Pearl Izumi's P.R.O. base layer.

Here is an example of layering, starting with our own custom Williamson Bicycle Works base layer (available in sleeveless and short sleeve), Pearl Izumi Elite Soft Shell Jacket and Sugoi Helium Vest. This would be a good set-up from the high 30s all the way to the mid 50s. As the temperatures rise the vest can be taken off and packed into a pocket, the Helium vest is very light weight and can be packed down very small making it perfect for layering.

For colder weather you need more layers and some more protection from the wind. Here we have Sugoi Wallaroo Merino Wool base layer Pearl Izumi Select Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey, and a Showers Pass Elite jacket. This set-up could, depending on how warm you want to be, take you down into the high teens.
Finding the correct bottoms to pair with the correct layers on top can be some-what easier. However careful selection is still key.
For commuting a pair of shell pants like Showers Pass Storm pants which are waterproof, offer good wind protection and can be worn over street clothes are perfect. For longer rides or commutes tights are a good choice, like the Pearl Elite bib tight. We carry different weights and styles of tights. We also stock a large selection of knee, leg and arm warms for layering or slightly warmer than freezing temps.

Many people say the most important thing to keep warm is your head! We can't agree more, so we stock a lot of different hats. Whether it's a balaclava, skull cap, cycling cap or winter hat that you are looking for, we have it!

And don't forget about your extremities! Keeping your hand and feet warm will make riding a lot more enjoyable! We carry gloves by Pearl Izumi, Mavic, Gore and Giro.

A good pair of shoe covers...
...and wool socks will help keep your feet nice and toasty!

Now your ready to ride all year long!