Training Notes #4 - cold weather riding

When it gets really cold you may need to take extra measures, above you regular winter set-up, to keep yourself warm:

  • Double leggings - so 2 layers.  Your legs never feel cold but giving them extra insulation means they don't loose heat
  • Multiple, multiple layers - consider wearing many cycling jerseys.  You've got enough clothes on when you feel your movement is slightly restricted.  Another sign is when you feel slightly over-dressed whilst indoors - uncomfortable is good when indoors
  • Scarf or neck tube - this can really be effective, and easy to remove if things get too hot
  • Gloves - inner and outer gloves, the outer should resemble motorcycle gloves and should cause your hands to go moist on warmer days.  Consider carrying extra gloves just in case the first pairs get wet
  • Balaclava - this is really extreme, on really cold days you can still build up quite a heat wearing one of these
  • Thermos with hot coffee - now you're talking!  You can get dehydrated because you're reluctant to drink the cold water in your bidon.  A warm drink can also help keep your core temperature up
  • Shoes - lots of shoes have large vents for summer riding.  No amount of socks or over-shoes will make up for this fundamental gap.  Solution - wrap gaffer/parcel tape over the main holes.

Anyone else got any tips?