Bike Gear: Cold Weather

[threadwalker]

What do you wear for your cold weather biking?

What works for you? What doesn't?

What kind of biking? On road? Off road? Intensity - high or low or in between?


My coldest ride was yesterday. Mt Diablo, downhill 15-30 mph, fog, 40F out. Fairly intense.

I need a windproof jacket and a base-layer that wicks moisture away. I'm not sure that I was "dry" when I hit the coldest part of the ride and being damp would make that ride more miserable than it needs to be. I'm currently wearing long sleeved Underarmor next to my skin, but it's not designed to wick moisture. Plus a long sleeved jersey. Plus Descente thermal layer (not windproof). Plus safety vest. I want to get a windproof jacket, but I am not sure what will work best. I don't trust the labels to be completely honest about garment capability.

I returned my Pearl Izumi, Winter Force, Lobster claw gloves for a mens pair with GORE.

I have Descente toe covers (neoprene), but I think I need to upgrade to full booties since I'm wearing tri-shoes, which are more vented than regular road shoes.

The combo of Underarmor skull cap and full face mask worked well. I ended up with 2 layers over my ears, which was an improvement from last time.

My pants are not designed for cold weather. I will probably need to add some knee warmers over them.

Comments

[kahnegabs.livejournal.com]

They've probably come up with new stuff since I was doing Diablo on cold days, but I always liked my wool leggings and then covered them with some rainpants when necessary. I always needed removable layers, 'cause I overheated easily. Vest with long-sleeved nylon windbreaker on top was good. Mine was bright pink, 'cause I wanted to be seen by any 4-wheeled traffic!