What To Wear Mountain Biking In Cold Weather

January 7, 2011 by  
Filed under Cycling

Deciding what to wear while mountain biking in cold weather can be a challenge. This is because, while it may be cold outside, when you get out there and start riding, your blood will start pumping, and you will start to heat up. When you start to sweat in cold weather, problems can start to happen. With the wind blowing on you while riding, you may start to get a chill.

Below you will see a list of clothing that will make your outings much more comfortable.

Colder weather can be terrible for your toes. This is especially true while biking. With the wind blowing on your toes, and the lack of circulation caused by the pressure of pedaling, you will definitely want to take extra precautions. Neoprene booties allow you to cover your shoes and keep them warm.

It seems that when cold weather hits, your fingers and your toes get hit the hardest. Because of this, warm gloves are essential. There are weird looking gloves called "lobster gloves", that make your hands look like lobster claws. They are much warmer than regular gloves because they group fingers together, but still give you the mobility needed to shift gears, and use the brake lever.

The problem with wearing heavy socks is that they are often huge and bulky. This makes for an uncomfortable fit when worn in shoes. To get around this, silk ski socks are much more lightweight and functional. They are comfortable, and warm.

When flying down a hill, the cold wind can be painful for the eyes. Snug wraparound glasses can provide protection from wind, debris, and cold temperatures.

When it comes to underwear, the recommended material is polypropylene, which is both lightweight and nice for colder weather.

Wearing jeans and a jacket that protect you from cold, chilling wind is important while riding. You want to be able to vent some heat as you will warm up once you start riding, but you want to prevent wind from chilling you.

To keep your head and your ears warm during winter riding sessions, wear a fleece liner underneath your helmet. This is important because 50% of your body's heat can be lost through your head.

If you want to get into shape so you are better prepared for whatever life throws at you, on and off a mountain bike, I recommend the P90x workout video. All you need for it are dumbbells or P90x resistance bands, and a pull-up bar.

Pearl Izumi 2008 Womens X ALP Mid GTX Mountain Bike Hiking Running Shoe Moonlight Real Passion 5738 2EP

The Pearl Izumi 2008 Womens X ALP Mid GTX Mountain Bike is no longer available.

Waterproof version guaranteed to keep you dry. Built for the long haul, the R&R plate allowsyou to drop the hammer on the pedals but has enough flexibility and traction for whenyou have to get off and push up the big hills.New Wider fit. R&R nylon plate for easy hike-a-bike and great pedaling power. Gore-Tex lining provides waterproof comfort. Water-resistant, breathable gaiter provides protection and repels debris while riding. Carbon rubber lugged outsole for superior traction and durability.Flexible forefoot and a running shoe beveled heel. Mid cut construction protects your ankles from rough terrain. Quick drying, highly breathable mesh/synthetic upper. Endo-skeletal fit system securely wraps feet.