Tag: Winter Cycling

FIELD GUIDE TO THE BEST CYCLING TIGHTS.

Choosing the Best Cycling Tights – It’s a Matter of Degree.

Rain, wind, extreme cold, low light, or a mix of all are no problem with the right cycling tight. This season we once again scoured the cycling universe to bring you the very best in women’s cycling tights for all conditions.

We also put cycling tights to the test in some pretty extreme conditions from wet road surfaces to frigid temperatures. While the option always exists for layering a shell tight over bike shorts, our testers favor the integrated, dedicated cycling tights with chamois. The main reason is less bulk, and therefore a reduction in the potential for chafing at waist, back of knee, and through the crotch, where multiple fabric layers can be extra problematic.

Years of development and sourcing have resulted in what we think is a pretty comprehensive array of options – and the best cycling tights for female cyclists. If you’re a serious rider trying to eke out every rideable day possible, you’ll get your money’s worth out of any one of these bike tights choices.

Best Cycling Tights for Touring and 35º – 60º

Coolweather Tour – the ultra padded option

Coolweather Tights

Coolweather are our best cycling tights for mostly dry, above freezing conditions. Not only are these good for a wide temperature range, we make them for a wide variety of riders (petite, regular, tall and plus). They’re not thermal but the fabric is a densely knitted tri blend designed to wick extremely well. We’ve also added an option with our most padded chamois (Flex Air Tour) designed for all day in the saddle. These will be in the kit for any bike trips the next 6 months.

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Castelli Velocissima

A sculpted, thermal option for mild to cool conditions. Features a combination of warm fleecy fabric, premium pad, technical details, all-around visibility and a dark nightshade color that’s next level.

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Wayfarer

Our 5-star Wayfarer Tight is a gem, coming in both onyx or new charcoal. Two generous side pockets and satiny UPF 50+ compression fabric make this the supreme choice for an all-season touring tight.

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Best Bike Tights for 30º – 50º

Thermal Tights, best cycling tights for mixed weather conditions

Great choices here, all made of a fleece-backed fabric that adds loft and warmth. All three are five-star rated and offer slightly different fits as well as differences in chamois. Of course we’re biased toward our own Thermal and Powerstretch Pro Tights, but the others are great options, too.

NEW Thermal Hi Rise

Available in a variety of configurations (padded or unpadded, knicker or tight), our higher rise, dual pocketed, fleece backed Thermals are the way to go for warmth and functionality.

Terry Thermal

Equipped with a handy leg pocket and our ridiculously comfortable soft wing chamois. Fleecy against the skin, wind resistant, water repellent and warm.

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Castelli Espresso

Castelli’s newest and best coldweather tight offers a great blend of warmth and riding comfort. This is the tight that keeps you protected and riding comfortably in the widest possible range of conditions with minimal, carefully placed seams and Progetto X2 Air Chamois.

Gore Swiftride

Amazing value in a padded thermal tight from the master fabric engineers at Gore.

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Best Cycling Tights for 20º – 50º

Windfront Tights, great for the coldest and/or wettest conditions

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Core Subzero Wind

What makes this the ideal Wind Tight for cycling? A highly specialized fabric combination that’s wind and water-proof in front, stretchy thermal fabric that wicks and is brushed inside, a reflective print that illuminates when light hits it and a really fabulous price. Excellent insulation for serious cyclists who ride all year.

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Winter Bib.

Designed to meet the steep demands of winter riding and the expectations of the most discerning performance cyclists. Polartec Hardface Windpro in the front blocks wind and repels moisture. In the rear, we’ve strategically placed Polartec Powerstretch Pro to add stretch and advance moisture management. Fully windproof and highly water resistant, this bib will ride with you through the worst conditions. Its compression fit and high rise design help lock in body heat while providing full core support. Elasticized straps make getting in and out quick and easy. Add to that our premium Flex Air Carbon chamois with low-bulk, multi-level padding, excellent moisture transfer and natural antimicrobial properties, and there you have it–one of the best options for all-day, all-weather riding this winter.

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Terry Winter Tights – our top choice for deep winter cycling

Terry Winter Tights

Our warmest group of tights, designed for the worst conditions. Up front, Polartec Hardface WindPro jersey/velour with DWR water repellency and polymer surface to shed moisture and block wind; Powerstretch Pro in rear for stretch and moisture management. Fully windproof and highly water resistant. Also available in petite length for shorter riders and unpadded for layering and off-bike use.

Best Tights for Layering

For the beset in ultimate versatility and economy, we recommend an unpadded layering tight that’s made out of performance thermal fabric. Not only can you use them on the bike, but they make wonderful all-sport tights cool weather options, as well.

Padless Thermal Hi Rise

Fleecy next to skin, built-in pockets, higher rise and available in a new sapphire or solid black.

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Padless Winter Tight

The absolute warmest option for winter cycling, alpine hiking, Nordic skiing or driveway shoveling. Polartec’s absolute warmest combination of fabrics and Terry fit.

Best Bike Tights for Sun Protection

Breakaway

An economical choice for full sun protection that extends comfort down to moderately chilly conditions. Silky performance fabric, comfortable fit, chamois ready for a full day’s cycling.

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Soleil Tights

Lightweight UPF 50+ coverage in a sleek stretch Italian performance fabric that works well in all seasons. Like many of our tights, it’s also sewn in the USA, comes in two colors and has one of our fabulous Italian Fleet Air chamois.

Best Choice When Bike Tights Aren’t Enough

Don’t get drenched – get these GORE-TEX babies.

GTX Lupra Pant

Easily packable, and tough enough to take on a torrential downpour. Extremely breathable and robustly waterproof and windproof, with a cycling-specific cut, they’re the secret weapon for all-season riding.

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Transit Bike Pant

Transit Pant by Showers Pass is waterproof and rugged and made with a 3-layer waterproof, breathable Artex material. A generous helping of reflective trim keeps you visible during low light hours.

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How to Choose The Best Cycling Tights For Your Needs

Cycling tights give you full length protection from chilly or freezing weather, or from the sun. Consider the weight of the fabric to suit the range of conditions you’ll be riding in.

To pad or not to pad.

Unpadded tights are normally worn over your cycling shorts or liners, giving the advantage of being useful for other off-bike purposes. The disadvantage is that double layers of fabric can add to friction and bulk which we like to avoid.

Padded tights are cycling specific and a lovely way to go full length without the added bulk of fabric and seams over seams which can cause friction and chafing.

Evaluate the fabric.

A range of options exist, from thermal wind-protective, fleece interior Winter Tights (20-40º), to 3-season, moisture wicking Coolweather Tights (30-50º+). Neither are waterproof, so consider adding a GORE-TEX® shell (pant or short) as an outer layer if faced with wet conditions.

Seam placement.

Pay attention to placement of the seams on cycling tights. Poor placement can lead to chafing, particularly around and behind the knee.

Select the proper size.

Cycling tights should fit tightly, with no bagging or sagging fabric that will catch on your saddle.

Length is important of course, since we’re all shaped a little differently. Our most popular Terry bike tights are available in different lengths to suit taller or shorter riders. If in doubt, our customer service team will be happy to point you in the right direction.

Match your cycling tights to the riding conditions.

Choose fabric weight, lining and water resistance to the weather and road or trail conditions you expect.

Shop our complete selection of bike tights here.

Check out our “how to choose” articles on cycling shorts and cycling knickers, and if you find this information helpful please share with your friends!

October 1, 2025
BEST WINTER CYCLING GEAR – STAFF PICKS FOR 2022.
Temperatures are plummeting, but we plan to keep riding through the winter months, so it’s time to pick out our best winter cycling gear!

As someone hardy around here said, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad outfits!” With the right winter cycling clothes in your wardrobe, and appropriate equipment, you can keep riding all year round, even when temperatures drop toward zero.

Sure, it does get more challenging, but overcoming the elements to enjoy the freedom of cycling and get a good workout in the cold makes it even more rewarding. There’s no reason to stop cycling as long as you’re warm enough to enjoy it, and equipped to ride safely when you encounter slippery surfaces and unexpected weather conditions.

What should I look for to find the best winter cycling gear?

Of course, the main goal for winter cycling clothing is to maintain a comfortable body temperature without getting clammy from sweat. That means keeping body heat in, while allowing ventilation so you can avoid overheating. Add the need to fend off all kinds of rain and snow, and be as conspicuous as possible in low-light, reduced-visibility conditions, and it’s clear we need some specialized cold weather gear if we’re going to enjoy the ride fully.

Some of these requirements are met really well with clothing made for skiing, since both sports deal with periods of high and low activity in freezing temperatures and cold wind. However, there are several ways cycling specific winter clothing works better for us.
- Winter bike clothing gives a better range of motion in the arms and torso forward cycling position.
- It tends to be tailored for better aerodynamics – loose clothing flaps in the wind and wastes your energy.
- It will usually have a more practical pocket layout for access on the go, rear pockets especially.
- Better visibility is commonly built in, with reflective details and high-viz colors.
- Cycling gear is generally padded at contact points, where it really counts.
Here’s a shortcut to the best in winter gear at Terry: Our Cool Weather Collection

How to stay warm and comfortable when cycling in sub-freezing temperatures

Keep these important ideas in mind as you prepare to dress for cold weather cycling.
- Use layering to keep your core warm: wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a windproof, waterproof top-layer.
- Choose items with adjustable ventilation, and breathable fabrics, so you can avoid getting wet from sweating during strenuous parts of the ride. When you ease off, that dampness can make you chilled very quickly. It’s very easy to overheat riding up a climb, only to freeze to the bone on a long descent.
- Cold feet and hands will ruin the fun quickly, so invest in insulated coverings to keep feet warm and hands toasty.
- Around 10% of your body heat is lost through your uncovered head, and ears freeze first. In milder temperatures a fleece ear band may be enough to keep your head warm. As temperatures drop, a liner under your helmet, and a helmet cover, will become essential.
- Winter cycling will bring cold temperatures, freezing wind, all the uncomfortably cold kinds of precipitation, and road spray, often salty and dirty. Windproof, waterproof, and breathable fabrics are the first choice for all outer items.
What’s new in winter cycling gear for 2022?

We aim to help you keep riding as long as you want, so we have even more good gear options for winter bike rides than ever before. That said, supply chain problems and unusual demand for cycling gear continue, both due to the persistent pandemic conditions. That has made it hard to keep certain items in stock, so this year’s staff picks are updated to reflect what will perform well and is still available.

We’re well stocked with two fantastic new options in winter cycling tights. If these look right for you, don’t wait too long to buy – they are in high-demand.

We also made some exciting new additions to our long sleeve jersey line-up. They have proven very popular, so order early if these meet your needs and your size is still available.

We have some great options for keeping your extremities toasty, too. Gloves are important enough to get their own mini-buying guide, here.

Our recommendations for the best cycling clothing and accessories for cold weather rides

Nik H., Operations Wizard

I’ll admit it –

PowerStretch Pro

My go to for winter riding is our Coldweather tight, now discontinued unfortunately, but we have two excellent replacements – the Powerstretch Pro Tight and the Winter Tight. Both these winter cycling tights feature USA made Polartec Powerstretch Pro fabric for ample warmth. The Winter Tight has a wind and waterproof front, making it great for the worst conditions.

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Colin D., Web Marketing Wonk

Coolweather Tight

I find the fit of a number of Terry bike bottoms is forgiving enough to work really well for me. As the rides have been getting colder I’ve been layering a pair of lightweight windproof pants over the Terry Coolweather Tight Tall, and riding comfortably down to mid-30s. The tights alone are good between high 40s to high 50s for me. I’m adding a pair of Powerstretch Pro tights as soon as I can. The fit notes have them running a little long so they should work for me, and I expect to be riding happily in them right through the winter.

Winter Tight

The Terry Winter Tight is an awesome choice in serious winter cycling tights, with thermal, breathable, wind and water blocking fabric. They get the highest recommendation for any women looking to ride in sub-freezing temps.

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Other essential gear for winter cycling

I always layer up for a comfortable torso. Good wicking base layers, a wind-blocking mid layer, and a breathable shell are all I need most of the time. I vary the weights and the shell to adjust for expected temperatures, and double up the base layers for extra warmth. It’s been a long time since I commuted by bike in the winter. If I were to start again I would add a premium breathable, storm-proof cycling jacket to the mix, and be ready for anything.

I find the real key to cycling comfortably in cold weather is keeping my extremities warm. Toasty feet, hands and ears make for long, happy rides.

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Helmet liner: I have a merino wool blend liner that works wonderfully. I barely know I have it on except my head and ears are completely comfortable down to freezing and below. The winter hats from Choucas or Skida will also fit the bill beautifully.

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Helmet cover: I also have a breathable, waterproof helmet cover for rides below 20° – highly recommended if you’re riding in the deep cold or in snowy/wet conditions.

Booties: I finally splurged on breathable, thermal, wind and water proof booties in Gore Tex fabric. Do not skimp, these are terrific. I wish I had them years ago. I like them for rides below high 40s. With warmer socks I think they will keep my feet comfortable well below freezing.

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Gloves: I ride a road bike mostly, so I need dexterity on the levers, but my hands get cold fast so I go for heavy ski gloves below 50°. The ones I use have a pocket for air activated hand warmers, great for below 25°. The only down side is the lack of palm padding. This year I plan to upgrade with some split finger gloves. The Terry Split Mitt is a great choice for winter cycling gloves. This option by Gore is also great, sizes are limited already.

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Natalie P., Product Development Whizz

My favorite winter cycling pick would have to be our new Tulip Jersey. The super cozy fabric and versatile styling make this jersey a major go-to when the temps start to dip! The back zippered pocket is also great for securing small items while you’re on the move.

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Cam M., Customer Service Maven

The Thermal Tight

Nothing motivates me to get in the saddle like knowing I’ll be comfortable once I get there. The brushed interior is cozy against the skin and makes starting up my ride a breeze.

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Another vote for The Tulip Jersey

The cut is really flattering and it has become my go-to layering for hiking and biking! The half-zip is perfect for ventilation when the sun pops out or the wind dies down.

The Strada Jersey

The Strada Jersey makes me look and feel like a “real” athlete. It is snug enough without being too tight and I feel “racy” every time I throw it on!

Bandito Neck Warmer

I wear a neck warmer every day from November to March, I LOVE them. I am a snow bunny but a big baby when it comes to a cold neck and ears. These neck warmers are a colorful and unique way to protect myself from the elements.

Motivation:

I make sure to carve time into my schedule everyday to hop on the saddle, either indoors or out. I treat this as 100% me time, it’s my best way to de-stress.

Jeannette S., Terry Ambassador

Winter rides are shorter, but more intense.

I start with an excellent quality base layer top, a vest for my core (Signature is a favorite), followed by a cycling jacket with fleece lining and windproof but soft outer shell.

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Warm wool socks, like the Wool Cyclosox socks, that extend to just below the knee, good heavier tights (anything with fleece and wind protection.) If it’s not too chilly, I’ll wear my Bella shorts and then pull a lined tight over. If it’s really cold or windy, then I reach for Terry’s new Winter Tight!

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I throw on a neck gaiter – a vital piece of clothing that keeps the winter chill from sneaking down your neck. Look for the Bandito neck Gaiters – still in stock at time of writing.

From there I add a beanie or any light cap that covers my ears, (Women’s sport fleece beanie, or C3 Windstopper helmet cap are great choices) under the mandatory helmet.

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I use my regular cycling shoes with winter booties (C5 Windstopper Overshoe), followed by Windstopper Split Mitt. I find that my cold prone fingers prefer the added warmth of claw vs full fingered gloves.

Next, if you haven’t already, check wind direction. The Weather Bug app works well for me. If possible, start your ride by heading into the wind and up hill. This will warm you up, and make the ride home more enjoyable.

Finally, even with all the winter gear accoutrements, expect your ride to be shorter than summer rides. It takes more energy to be out there in the winter, and your body is working harder to stay warm in that short amount of time. I find my rides drop from a 2 to 4 hour average down to 45 min to an hour, and that’s plenty.

The last item on my list – a post ride hot cocoa with a piece of toast and PB&J.

Lisa W., Queen of Customer Service

I love to layer for chilly bike rides and pick out great pieces to keep my extremities warm!

A great winter glove like the Terry Split Mitt for my fingers, Wool Cyclosox for my toes, and Skida pieces for my head and neck are the perfect trifecta for a great winter ride!

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Check out these posts for more gear and tips for winter cycling

Some great winter cycling tips.

Product picks with a good Q&A on how to dress for winter cycling.

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December 29, 2021
FAT BIKE FRENZY – A WINTER CYCLING FUN FEST.

Fat Biking in February – a Perfect Antidote to Cabin Fever

Terry customer service heros, Cam and Lisa, gave fat biking a try for some winter cycling fun, and found out why people love fat bikes so much. This activity could be both the most fun you can have on a bike AND the most fun you can have in the snow.
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Cam’s first fat biking adventure

As a Vermont transplant, I had never been on a fat bike before Sunday. Being a true opportunist I was excited to try something new, and any intimidation I felt for the behemoth of a bike standing before me melted away the second I was in the saddle. I was initially surprised with how light I felt and how maneuverable the bike was. Like a kid kicking off their training wheels, I was speeding out of the parking lot and onto the trails in seconds.

The conditions were a bit icy so I limited myself to a novice route, which I was thankful for as my new-found hubris might have encouraged me to try and top the mountain. I could spend all day on one of these, getting lost in woods and thought. Weaving around the trees and barreling down the hills was the most winter fun I’ve ever had, I felt unstoppable. After having such a blast outside I didn’t want to go back in, so I spent the rest of the day with wind-marked cheeks and a smile from ear to ear, playing on the frozen lake with my dogs. I shed the cycling tights but wore my Sunblocker Jersey and base layer into the evening.

I was colorfully and comfortably dressed in our new Sunblocker Jersey in Color Jungle, Petite Coolweather Tights, and Wool Cylosox. I started off the sunny 30 degree day with a Sherpa lined jacket but by the time I hit the hills I was able to shed off that layer and ride down in just my Sunblocker with my fantastic Craft baselayer underneath. The Flex Chamois offered me continuous comfort throughout my ride and perfectly countered the stiff standard saddle that was on the demo bike. My partner who rode the track without padding was jealous to say the least. I was biking in my Blundstones, which I would like to say is out of the ordinary for me, but actually is my go-to for winter cycling. The Wool Cyclosox kept me warm and were perfect for moisture wicking, while gripping my foot in the proper cycling position in my not-so-proper footwear. Overall, I couldn’t have been better prepared in my all out Terry outfit.

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Lisa was fully prepared and still surprised!

My fat biking day began with lots of layering! I started with a Soleil long sleeve top as my baselayer and my Coolweather Tights for padding and warmth. I pulled a Mandarin Thermal jersey over the Soleil and added a headband, neck warmer, sunglasses and some warm winter gloves. On top of all this I added a fleece vest and a short down jacket.I arrived at the demo on a chilly day, and had a bit of a wait for a bike, so I pulled wind pants over my Coolweather tights, and switched my headband for a hat…I was much toastier and still feeling limber enough to ride.

Dakota tags along for some fat bike fun

I was paired with a “small” fat bike but it still looked huge! These things are beasts! I was assured that my fat bike only weighed about 30 pounds, and I was amazed at how light it felt once I got going! I was surprised to find how maneuverable a fat bike is. It looked to me like it would be hard work to ride, but I found that on packed trails I could cruise easily and felt like I was floating along. I had a blast and can’t wait to go again!!
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Check out this post for a closer look at the ins and outs of winter cycling gear.

February 9, 2020
TOP PICKS FOR WINTER CYCLING GEAR – Q & A.

Everything you wanted to know about winter cycling gear, and maybe some things you didn’t know you needed to know!

What do I wear for cycling in winter?

Part of the answer to this frequently asked question depends on what type of riding you will do. If you are commuting to work for as much of the winter as you can, you will probably choose some different pieces than someone who is riding competitively or training through the cold months. That said, the principles are the same.

What you need to stay comfortable cycling in winter is actually very similar to clothing for other winter sports – particularly alpine skiing. There are quite a few similarities between the stance and movements of the two sports. Also, both involve strenuous effort that raises body temperatures, alternating with more relaxed periods where it’s easy to get chilled. Clothing for both sports requires a balance between the temperature produced by effort and cooling due to wind.

Commuters and casual winter cyclists can do pretty well with ski gear in a lot of cases, especially if they ski and have ski clothing available already.

More dedicated cyclists will benefit from clothing made specifically for cycling, for better fit and comfort, and practical bike and cycling friendly features.

Looking for winter bike clothing recommendations? Check out our Staff Picks for the Best Winter Cycling Gear.

First principles – Four Words to Guide your Winter Cycling Wardrobe:

Layering, Wicking, Windproofing, Breathability.

Going to extremities

Extremities get chilled first, both because our bodies direct blood flow to our core to stay warm, and because they are out there in the cold wind, and obviously the faster we go on bikes the more wind we make for ourselves.

Preventing the wind from getting to extremities is therefore the first line of protection for winter cycling.

Gloves require good insulation with wind proofing, but must still allow dexterity to control the bike, which makes the search for the perfect winter cycling glove a constant quest. We have some great options, with wind-blocking fabric and split finger or mitten designs. For those of us who have colder hands to begin with, mittens or split finger designs will perform better, as fingers held together stay warmer than when individually pocketed in gloves. Mitts also have room to slip a disposable hand-warmer behind the fingers, which can feel like a life saver.

Good shoe covers are essential when it gets cold. An extra layer on your feet with good wind and water proofing can keep you riding happily in very cold temperatures. Many cyclists opt for neoprene overshoes, made from the same stuff as wetsuits for diving. Gore-Tex and Windblocker are even better options, as they are easier to get in and out of, do the same job, and are more comfortable to wear.

We’re all (cold) ears.

Choose a helmet liner or headband that goes over your ears. They will thank you by not falling off as icicles, or at least by not giving you pain both freezing and thawing. A good helmet liner is thin enough to fit under your regular helmet, with straps adjusted to make room, and has good thermal and wicking properties. It’s hard to beat a merino wool blend fabric for this job. A windproof helmet cover makes a big difference too, keeping out both wind and road spray or precipitation. Keeping your head warm is half the battle for winter cycling.

Face reality

Tearing up in the freezing wind can be a real problem for winter cyclists, and ski gear comes to the rescue here. Many winter cyclists opt to wear ski goggles and it can make all the difference. A full face balaklava, or buff over the mouth and nose can keep the freezing wind off your face very effectively. Scarves can work too, but tend to be harder to keep in place without constant adjustments.

Layering up

A short or long-sleeve baselayer or two are the foundation of your winter kit. Choose base and mid layers with good thermal qualities and good moisture transport. There are some great synthetics out there that fit the bill, and lots of cyclists love merino wool as a natural and very practical choice. Avoid cotton, which does not wick well – that trapped moisture next to your skin can bring on a severe chill.

A medium weight layer over the base can be a mid or heavier weight thermal jersey. Choose a high neckline, and zippered front to allow ventilation when you’re working hard enough to get hot.

A windproof gilet or vest makes a great top layer for moderately cold temps. This is a vest with a cycling cut and rear pockets, to keep your core warm and block the wind. When it’s really cold a windproof jacket is an essential addition. Look for breathable, water resistant fabric.

One thing to watch out for when layering up, especially for female cyclists – extra layers in the saddle-contact region can increase likelihood of chafing and discomfort. We recommend cold-weather weight cycling tights with a good chamois as a better option than padded shorts with a chamoi-less layer over the top. That said, layering up is the key to enjoying cycling in the colder temps, so see what works for you. A top quality chamois and the minimum of layers to keep you riding comfortably is the goal.

Breaking down your complete Winter Cycling Kit

Torso:

Chilly: Baselayer, mid-weight thermal jersey, windproof gilet or vest. Easily zipped or doffed to adapt to warming up and cooling down.

Freezing: Add a windproof, breathable shell. Keep the vest if you need an extra layer.

Super-cold: Swap in a heavy-weight jersey, or double up to get more insulating layers.

Legs:

Chilly: Thermal tights with chamois.

Cold: Heavy-weight thermal tights with a chamois, or if layers work for you, no-chamois tights over your chamois lined shorts.

Super-cold: Add windproof, breathable cycling pants over the top.

Head:

Chilly: Thin thermal helmet liner.

Cold: Add a breathable windproof helmet cover on the outside.

Super-cold: Add face protection – a buff, balaklava, ski goggles.

Neck:

Chilly to super-cold: A buff or bandana can keep the wind off your neck and stop it sneaking down your jacket. A heavier neck-gaiter is a great addition when it’s colder.

Hands:

Chilly: Thermal gloves, windproof thermal gloves.

Cold: Windproof mittens, split-mitts, or a thermal glove with a windproof shell mitt over the top.

Super-cold: Choose a mitt with pockets for air activated or USB powered hand warmers. Consider bar mitts for ultimate cold weather protection.

Feet:

Chilly to cold: Longer, warmer socks, and thermal windproof overshoes/show cover over your regular cleats.

Super-cold: Slip air activated warmers inside your overshoes, over your toes, if you can fit them (smaller ones are available – check ski gear outlets). They will still help if slipped in by your ankles. Depending on the riding you’re doing, you might prefer to switch to flat pedals and wear a winter boot that’s not too clunky for pedaling.

Knees:

Cold knees are more injury prone. Go for covered knees and wind-proofing in chilly temps. Some people like to look tough in shorts in winter (yes I am looking at you, Bruce), but they’re not doing themselves any favors long term.

Winter cycling gear Q & A

What should I wear for road cycling in winter?

Road cyclists are still interested in speed, even though they may brave some frigid temperatures to stay in shape over the winter. That means forgoing bulky winter gear in favor of closer fitting pieces that won’t catch the wind, draining energy. Most road cyclists continue to clip in with their usual cleated shoes. The secret is to dress in layers, with emphasis on thermal qualities, moisture wicking, and breathability. Wearing warm and windproof gear on extremities is particularly important. Keeping head, hands and feet toasty helps winter cyclists keep core temperatures where they should be. As cyclists, when we get chilled it’s our extremities that feel it first.

How cold is too cold to ride a bike?

It isn’t too cold to ride a bike until it’s too cold for you to feel comfortable and be safe. Otherwise, as long as you’re enjoying it, keep riding. Of course, you might need some special clothing and equipment to keep cycling through frozen conditions. With the right winter cycling gear many hardy cyclists keep riding through the toughest northern winters.

Can you ride a bike in winter?

Yes, you certainly can! It really depends on having clothing that keeps you warm and comfortable in freezing temperatures, and having a bike that’s equipped to be safe to ride in snowy, icy conditions.

How do cyclists stay warm in the winter?

Cyclists keep themselves comfortable riding in freezing temperatures by layering their clothes, and making sure their extremities are protected by windproof and waterproof outerwear. Insulating, moisture wicking and breathable fabrics really help. Wind and waterproof gloves, overshoes and helmet covers are essential winter cycling accessories. In really cold conditions cyclists can also use air activated hand warmers tucked in gloves and overshoes.

Wearing a number of thin but warm layers with a windproof shell over the top keeps the heat in very effectively. Choosing breathable fabrics and shell helps regulate moisture. Since cycling can make you sweat quite a bit even in the cold, it’s important to avoid getting clammy. High exertion keeps your core temperature up, but if you ease up your effort and there’s too much moisture in your clothes you can get chilled really quickly. Moisture wicking fabrics and breathable shells are the answer to that.

How should I dress for winter cycling?

To enjoy cycling in winter keep these 4 words in mind: Layering, Wicking, Wind-proofing, Breathability. Cycling specific winter clothing will give you better comfort and range of motion in cycling positions, along with the convenience of bike-friendly features like pockets in the right places, ventilation, bright, reflective materials, and a fit tailored to minimize energy draining wind-resistance.

What is the best winter cycling jacket?

The best jacket for winter cycling is the one that has the right combination of cold weather protection features for the riding you will do, and the best fit for your particular shape and size. There isn’t one answer that’s right for everyone, so the best place to start is with a list of must-have features. Try on any you can find in your size at a price that makes sense to you. Try the jacket with the minimum and maximum number of layers you would expect to ride with, and in cycling position. Look for wind-proofing and water resistance, breathable fabric, taped seams, zippers in the right place and ability to adjust with gloves on. Make sure the fit feels good in your cycling positions, with no binding around arms, shoulders and neck. Look for a reasonably snug fit over your layers – avoid loose fabric that can flap in the wind and drain your energy.

Looking for product recommendations? Check out our Staff Picks for the Best Winter Cycling Gear.

February 9, 2020
WINTER CYCLING TIPS.
Here is a roundup of winter cycling tips to help you stay warm, safe, and upright, through the deepest cold of the season.

More and more cyclists are choosing to keep riding through the winter, thanks to better equipment, clothing, and a little know-how.

Good snow clearance on the bike lanes of cycling-friendly cities helps a lot too, but even without that you don’t have to stop racking up the miles, or take to a car, just because it turns cold.

In fact, winter riding can be really fun – there’s great satisfaction in defying the cold to enjoy the outdoors and stay fit.

Some of my favorite early cycling memories are from long winter rides with my club mates, “twiddling” low fixed gears over hill and dale, picking our way gingerly over icy rural roads in frosted landscapes. The reward was always multiple pots of tea and toasted buns in our café of choice.

On the other hand, winter brings some real hazards – some fairly obvious, some not so much – that call for a little preparation and common sense.

The first key to enjoyable winter cycling: stay warm and dry.

As impoverished teens, my friends and I would start our early morning winter rides with newspapers lining our bike jerseys – it had some insulation value but the real benefit was wind-proofing. As both the day and the ride warmed up we would pull the papers out and discard them. Thankfully there are now much better options available (thank you, Terry).
- Choose your clothing with layering in mind, and go for fabrics with good moisture transport. Plan on adding or subtracting layers to suit the conditions as you go. A good baselayer, midlayer and a breathable windproof shell will take you comfortably through a wide range of conditions. It’s not a bad idea to bring an extra mid-weight layer just in case you end up waiting around somewhere in the cold (fixing a flat, for example), and a spare base layer in a water proof bag can feel like a life saver if you get soaked along the way. Experience talking there.
- Remember you will warm up as you work, so when you are first setting off it’s okay to feel slightly under-dressed. You will soon warm up, and if you felt warm to begin with you’d quickly overheat and get sweaty.
- Your core temperature is vital of course, but your extremities make a huge difference to your comfort, so it’s well worth kitting out with wind and waterproof gloves, and booties.
- Keeping your head warm is essential for keeping your core warm. Avoid jacket hoods, which fill with cold air as you ride. Instead opt for a tight fitting helmet liner or beanie, and a helmet cover to keep the wind off.
- Keep a quick source of heat on hand – air activated hand warmers slipped inside your gloves can avert a lot of cold-weather misery. Now usb-powered pocket warmers are also available: very easy to pack for instant heat with no waste.
- Don’t forget to pack extra food, a vital way to maintain your energy level. It never hurts to pack more than you think you’ll use, just in case you are delayed somewhere in the cold. Nothing is more welcome than hot food in an insulated container during a break on a long adventure in the cold. The voice of experience again: hot rice pudding works very well.
Cycling through snow and ice calls for different equipment

My first job in the U.S., in Yarmouth, Maine, required a short commute: from one end of Main Street to the other. A bit too long to walk, much too short to drive. I bought a $20 bike to make the trip, and kept to it no matter what winter brought. The only real problem I had was when the temperatures dropped well below zero – whatever was lubricating the brake cables froze stiff and the brakes were completely useless. Of course, on those days I gave up and walked.
- A well equipped winter bike will have fenders, lights and wide tires. Fenders are particularly important for keeping you and your riding companions dry – the spray from wet roads can soak you through and set you up for hypothermia on a long, chilly ride.
- It’s a good idea to switch to flat pedals for the winter, avoiding clips or straps – BMX pedals are good for use with heavier footwear, being wide and grippy. This will leave your feet free so you can put a foot down quickly when needed.
- Lower your tire pressure. You want to keep enough air in your tires to avoid pinch flats and an energy-sucking ride, but lower pressure will increase the surface area of the tire in contact with the road and give you more traction.
- Many winter-loving cyclists opt for single-speed setups, to avoid the hassles of ice-bound derailleurs.
- Studded winter bike tires are easily available these days. They aren’t a cheap option, but those who ride a lot on them swear by them – very secure on ice. The carbide ones last longer and may actually work out cheaper than regular steel in the long run.
Cycling in winter means riding through poor visibility, in low light, or darkness.
- Be as visible as possible: drivers are not looking for cyclists in the off-season and visibility can be very poor during wintry weather.
- Ride with bright lights even during daylight hours.
- Wear light and bright colors, but avoid white, which blends in with a snowy background.
- Opt for as many reflective accessories and clothes as you can. Many hardcore winter cyclists add their own reflective accents with 3M tape: on bags, clothes and bikes – the more the better.
Adapt your cycling technique to stay upright and on track
- Slow down, avoid sudden movements, take wide turns.
- In wintry conditions it’s even more important than usual to anticipate road conditions and traffic movements ahead. There’s often less road available when snow is banked against the curb. Make sure you have a safe path to ride ahead.
- When riding on ice it’s very easy to lock your front wheel and have it slip out from under you. Use your rear brake to slow down rather than the front, especially on slippy surfaces.
- Get in the habit of testing your brakes before you need them, to clear ice or slush and make sure all is okay.
Things to look out for when the temperature drops
- Hidden ice: Leaves or snow can cover ice patches; metal plates and service covers in the road can be especially slippy; asphalt can have an invisible glaze of ice. Be especially careful if it’s been wet and the temperature drops below freezing.
- Salt and dirt can wreak havoc with your bike and its components. That’s one good reason for using a cheaper, more rugged bike for winter, instead of your prized high specification summer mount. In any case, make sure to wash or wipe your bike down after every ride. Salt left in place can corrode metal surfaces surprisingly quickly.
- If you can, store your bike in the cold. A warm bike taken into freezing temps can attract condensation and melt the spray or snow that lands on it, which will soon freeze. That can be a hazard for brakes and gears.
- Dehydration – when it’s cold it’s less obvious that you’re still sweating and need to keep up fluid intake. Don’t forget to pre-hydrate and bring water with you. It can help to bring hot beverages in insulated containers: a great way to keep warm as well as hydrated.
- Sunburn – on a sunny day in winter you can burn just as readily as in summer. Keep using sunblock and take it along for the ride.
- Plan your routes with the worst case scenario in mind. If the weather takes a turn for the worse during your ride, it’s really helpful to be able to bail out and jump on public transport, or have a sheltered place to wait for a rescue ride. Also, plan to fight strong winds on your outward leg, and take advantage of tailwinds on the return, when you’re more tired.
Respect the snow and ice

It’s really fun to ride in challenging conditions, but there’s a point where the risk of slipping and falling, or being vulnerable to accidents with vehicles, outweighs other considerations. Be mindful of where that point is for you, and don’t feel you need to keep riding to prove a point.

If it’s not fun, or if it’s not safe, it’s time to find a different way.

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Do you have any favorite winter cycling tips? Let us know how you keep rolling through the snow…
November 2, 2019
FAT BIKE FUN.

I wish I was a hard core cyclist, you know the ones that bike all year round no matter how cold or icy the roads or trails are. Unfortunately I am not, I like to be warm, but one day I decided to give Fat Biking a try. I wanted to see what all the rage was about.

We went to the Catamount Family Center in Williston, VT. The day was a 20 below 0° day so lots of layers were of key importance. Since it was so cold we had the entire trail network to ourselves.

The trails were a mix of smooth crushed gravel double track to start, then we went to the single track which was a mix of buffed out, rooty, and rocky. There was a nice mix of flat, rolling hills and some steeper hills. The day we went there was only a few inches of snow on top of frozen ground and ice! We made the first tracks of the day.

We started out on the easier flatter trails to get used to the bike on snow and the big tires, and worked up to the single track w/ roots and rocks.

I haven’t been on a mountain bike since college, and I found the fat tires made it more enjoyable and easier to get around. I normally ride my road bike with skinny tires. Fat tires are amazing, they can go over anything!!!!

The Fat bike was pretty easy to maneuver. The one thing I learned was to stay seated when climbing or you spin out and fall over 🙂

After a few spin outs and a few falls we got the hang of it and spent 2 hours exploring the trails. The Fat bike handled every type of terrain and went over pretty much anything from big rocks and stumps to big logs, and it handled very smoothly.

I think an experienced mountain biker could go anywhere on a Fat Bike, but the deeper the snow the harder it might be! Fat Bikes are not very light. Rumor has it they are not as fast as a road bike or a bike w/ skinnier tires.

If you get a chance, go buy a fat bike or rent one. It is a fun way to burn calories in the winter and you warm up pretty quick even on the coldest of days.

February 8, 2018
GEAR GUIDE: WINTER RIDING GLOVES.

Any rider who has braved snow covered trails, icy winds and side blowing sleet know that cold hands can ruin a ride before it even begins. So, let’s give a hand to arguably one of the most important pieces of equipment necessary for cold weather riding, warm and wearable winter gloves.

Here are our top picks for warm digits into single digits:

Road Riding 20° and Up:

Power SO Lady Road Glove.

These Power SO Road Gloves pack a punch, with reflective and hi-viz details that also serve as a beacon on the road. A WINDSTOPPER® membrane makes them completely impervious to wind and acceptable in the wet. The addition of a thermal lining, women-specific fit, foam padding on palm and silicone forehand gripper give these gloves just the right balance of warmth, grip and finger sensation in the just-below-freezing temperature range.

Road Riding 20° and Below:

Road WS Thermo Lobster Glove.

We have several women on staff with Reynaud’s disease, making it nearly impossible to ride in cold/wet conditions without fear of frostbite. Then we found this option from GORE®. If you’re taking your road riding to the extreme, the Thermo Lobster is about as warm as it can get without a battery. This glove features all of the benefits found in the Power SO Lady Road Glove above, but in a 2-chamber design that keeps the fingers even warmer while still allowing you to shift and brake.

Cold Condition Mountain Biking:

MTB WS Thermo Lady Glove.

This women-specific MTB glove by GORE® is new to their line and true to its name. The insulated glove comes complete with WINDSTOPPER® technology offering the unparalleled warmth riders have come to expect from Gore gloves but with the added benefit of strengthened lining between thumb and forefinger for an improved, MTB-specific grip.

Crazy Cold Commuting and Fat Biking:

45NRTH Cobrafist.

This insulated fat biking pogie is weather resistant to the extreme and unbeatable when it comes to cold weather gear options that maximize dexterity. The Cobrafist is protective enough that you can wear pretty minimal gloves in extreme conditions and still have full range of motion for braking and shifting.

Let us know what gloves you reach for as the temperature drops – we’re always on the lookout for the next hot thing.

Stay warm and happy riding.

January 4, 2016
WINTER GEAR GUIDE.

What to wear and when to wear it.

One thing that you will hear often in life, and more often in the world of cycling, bodies are different. This is especially true when discussing winter weather gear because everyone has different comfort levels when it comes to freezing temperatures. These recommendations are coming from my experience, commuting year round in New England, and they all follow a very basic layering rule that almost anyone can use to stay comfortable:

Base layer + insulation + wind protection.

50°F-35°F

This is still a pretty sane temperature range for riding and commuting therefore, not a lot of extra gear is required. In this temperature range, I find a vest to be the most comfortable outwear choice in variable weather that is on the warmer side. This particular outfit is the pinnacle of urban cycle chic, and still abides by the layering formula. The piece that makes this outfit is the Technique Dress, made with DWR weather-resistant fabric, this is one dress that can weather a storm as well as a board meeting.

Outfit:

NTS Pattern Crew base layer by Smartwool

Terry Coolweather Tight

Technique Dress by Nau

Down Stole by Nau

Contour Headband by Choucas

GBW Universal GT Thermo Gloves

35°F-20°F

In these temperatures, you will start to want gear that is made for cycling and specifically for cycling in cooler temperatures. Wind and water resistance in these conditions are key, especially for extremities like ears, hands and feet. The boots pictured here are made by Giro, they are a down, clipless boot created for men (but worn fabulously by women) and are consistently warm. However, toe and shoe covers are a great option for riders not looking to fully invest in a winter specific riding boot or who are looking to reduce the weight of their gear.

Outfit:

Warm Half Neck Base Layer by Craft

Thermal Tights by Terry

Wanderer Jersey by Terry

Glide Beanie by Choucas

GBW MTB WS Thermo Lady Gloves

0°F-20°F

No matter how brutal the weather, this outfit is my go to for commuting in the coldest conditions. With wind protection from the Power 2.0 Jacket, insulation from the Mandarin Thermal Jersey, extra coverage and warmth provided by the insulation skirt – there are so many amazing elements that make this work and when they come together, I may just say it is a masterpiece.

Outfit:

Active Extreme Crewneck Base Layer by Craft

Coldweather Tight by Terry

Mandarin Thermal L/S Jersey by Terry

GBW Power 2.0 SO Lady Cycling Jacket

Insulation Skirt by Craft

GBW Road WS Thermo Lobster Glove

As Terry Customer Service maven, Casey, always says “there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad outfits”, so stay warm and keep riding!

Tailwinds,

Whitney McKiddy

December 5, 2015
HOW TO COMMUTE DURING THE DEEP FREEZE.
There’s cold, and then there’s winter bike commuting.

On snowy days, take the time to stop and smell the frostbite.

Coming from Montana, I thought I could handle any weather that Vermont blew my way – but when wind chill kicked the temperature down to almost 40 below zero last year, I was a bit out of my element.

When you commute during this cripplingly cold season, you need more than great gear (my recommendations can be found here) you also need some serious mental discipline. As your wheels are spinning it’s easy for certain thought patterns to pop up in your head:
- I wonder if I’ll still have fingers when I get to work…
- At what temperature will my eyelids freeze together?
- Has time – along with everything else – also frozen?
And although there’s no way to completely kick those thoughts, here are some of my tricks for feeling the warmth of gratitude towards your icy trudge.
- Remember all of the bugs you encounter during the summer? Well that isn’t a problem now.
- What about the insane bike traffic, dogs on leashes and toddlers toddling – nope, none of that anymore either.
- Nose continually running? That’s okay! There’s no one else on the bike path to interfere with your air-hanky.
Winter commuting is a different beast. It’s slow going, so remember to stop (or just ride slowly, so as not to freeze) and appreciate that you have the opportunity to be here with crisp air in your lungs and wind in your hair.

See you out there!

Whitney McKiddy
December 4, 2015