Winter cycling

Winter cycling requires a bit more planning and preparation compared to summer cycling. However, with the right equipment and careful maintenance, you can enjoy cycling in the winter safely and comfortably. Please always remember to protect yourself and make sure you are prepared for the weather when cycling. Cycling is a popular way to move and enjoy the outdoors, even when the weather is cool. Below are a few things to consider when choosing cycling clothing or preparing your bike for winter rides.

Equipping the bicycle

Winter cycling requires a slightly different approach to bike maintenance and equipment compared to summer. Here is a list of things to consider when cycling with your bike in winter:

1. Tires: In winter, it is important to choose the right tires for your bike. Studded tires offer better grip in snowy and slushy weather. Thanks to the studded tires, cycling can be enjoyed all year round. Driving with studded tires in winter weather is effortless on a good road surface and is not much different from summer cycling, because the grip of a good studded tire can match driving on asphalt even in summer.
2. Chain: In winter weather, keep the chain dry and oiled to improve chain performance and reduce wear. Take care to lubricate the chain at regular intervals while cycling.
3. Brakes: It is a good idea to make sure that the brake system of the bike is working well and providing enough grip. Check the brakes regularly while riding and make sure they are clean and dry. If your brakes don't work well in snowy and slushy weather, you may want to consider replacing your brake discs or pads with models that are more resistant to the cold.

4. Lights: Bike lights are the most important accessory you need for winter cycling so that you can see and be seen by other riders in the dark. Make sure your bike's tail lights and front lights are working properly, clean and have a full battery. Also, consider getting additional lights for your bike if you plan to ride a lot in the dark during the winter.

Base layer

The underlayer is the most important layer of clothing for cycling in winter. It keeps the heat inside and keeps the skin dry. Choose a base layer that is breathable and moisture repellent, and choose a size that is loose enough to allow air to circulate between the skin and the base layer where possible. The best underlayers for cycling are, for example, underlayers made of 100% merino wool.

Top floor

The outer layer is an important layer of clothing to protect you from wind and rain. The top layer should also be made of breathable and flexible material, but at the same time made of windproof material that protects you from the cold draft. That's why waterproof and windproof materials are useful in winter, and it's recommended to buy a top layer that can withstand wear and tear, as these products are usually the most expensive, but at the same time, longest-lasting investments in layering.

Gloves

Gloves are an important part of cycling clothing. For added protection, consider gloves with an extra layer, such as fleece or fleece-lined gloves. Gloves and hand protectors designed for winter cycling are also sold for winter cycling. There are also many different hand warming equipment on the market, such as heating bags, electric bicycle handle warmers or hand warmers that can be attached to a bar.

Scarf or hood

A neckerchief or hood can be a useful accessory for winter riding when you want to protect your neck and neck from wind and rain. A scarf or hood should be breathable and made of a material that does not irritate the skin, breathes and warms enough. Good equipment for the neck and head are 100% merino wool collars and helmet hoods.

Foots

In winter, it is important to keep your feet warm and dry while cycling. Wear socks that are breathable and made of material that is good against the skin of the foot and does not cause chafing. For additional protection, you can consider shoe covers or heaters that can be placed over the shoe. Winter cycling shoes designed for winter cycling are also sold, which are usually a good option to keep your feet warm. For cold weather, it is recommended to combine winter cycling shoes and shoe protectors, so that the rider can cope even for long periods of time in cold weather.

Helmet

A helmet is perhaps the most important piece of safety equipment for cycling. Look for a helmet that is durable and lightweight, but most importantly, fits your head best. Usually in winter cycling, a helmet cap or beanie is used under the helmet, so it is important that you match the helmet with the outfit you are going to wear in the winter, so that the necessary amount of warmth can fit under the helmet. A helmet with fewer vents or a helmet rain cover help keep your head warm even in colder weather.

A few things to consider when choosing and fitting cycling clothes for winter use

Choose in layers: cycling clothing should be chosen in layers to allow you to adjust temperature and comfort as needed. The lower layer keeps the heat in, the upper layer protects from drafts and wind, and the additional layers offer additional protection and warmth.

Choose breathable and moisture-wicking materials: breathable and moisture-wicking materials help keep the skin dry and comfortable while cycling. This helps prevent the cold and increase comfort.

Choose the right sizes: cycling clothing sizes are usually smaller than normal clothes, so make sure you choose the right sizes during your shopping trip. Clothes that are too big can cause too much looseness and unintentionally get caught on tree branches, for example, while clothes that are too small can cause discomfort and prevent air exchange between layers of clothing.

Cycling in winter requires a little more planning and preparation than in summer. However, with the right clothes and equipment, you can enjoy cycling safely and comfortably even in winter. Always remember to protect yourself and make sure you are prepared for different weather conditions when cycling!