It is truly with love in my heart that I say this…I’m done with skiing. Yes, I know there will be die hards xc skiing as long as there are tracks on the trails. But the smell of spring is in the air, the chickadees are calling, and some of us need to ride. And not inside, either. There is no substitute for riding an unhindered bike and feeling the sweep of the curves, the pull of the terrain.
But it’s not as easy as putting on some bike shorts, shoes, and heading out. It’s cold out there. For some of you, below 50 degrees is off limits, while other brave souls will cycle down to 0. Either way, you must be prepared so you can have a comfortable, safe, and productive ride. Layering is key.
Baselayer
Because you’ll be moving faster than when you ski (for the most part), your upper body will feel the chill. A base layer top with wind resistance on the chest is crucial, like the Swix RaceX Bodywear Half Zip Windstopper for men and women. A base layer on the bottom can be uncomfortable as the chamois of your bike shorts must be against the skin to reduce chafing. There are other ways to keep your legs warm.
Midlayer
One of our favorite midlayers (top, jersey) is the Specialized RBX Merino Long Sleeve Jersey, also for men and women. Merino jerseys have become the cat’s meow of midlayers in recent years. The RBX Jersey has that something extra in terms of comfort and class that will make you look as good as you feel. Of course, synthetic midlayers are just as functional with superior wicking and windblocking power. For example, these Craft Activity Midlayers are at home on both the bike and ski trails. Check out the ladies’, too!
Jacket
Your choice of jacket comes down to how much protection you need. If you’ve got your baselayer and midlayer dialed in and you’re not in the worst weather, you may not need the heaviest of jackets. The Deflect Hybrid Jacket from Specialized is a great choice because if you start to warm up, zip off the sleeves and turn your jacket into a vest. Biking no matter what—through rain or snow? The Deflect H2O Jacket is a more versatile piece for adverse weather riding. It’s waterproof, so in warmer weather, it does double duty as a rain jacket.
Bottoms
You can go two ways on this one. Many folks like bibs. They are less restrictive and the Specialized Element Bib Tights are made from the most protective, wicking materials out there. They are a perfect cold-weather riding partner! But many of the skiers out there have a secret weapon—the Craft Storm Tight. This is the perfect layer to go over your favorite lycra biking short. Its warm, cozy feel, articulated knee, and hits of reflectivity are perfect for cycling as well as skiing.
Extras
Of course, it’s the little things that make a difference, right? Don’t forget cold weather shoes or shoe covers, wind blocking gloves or, yes, even mittens, helmet covers, buffs or balaclavas, and even arm and leg warmers for the more temperate weather.
Gravel, pavement, or packed, snowy trails. Whichever you choose, it’s time to get out there and ride. Being ready to really go the distance when the weather turns warm is huge. You won’t be pedaling squares, all your muscles will be dialed in, and your bike only gets comfier as you ride.
So if you need help putting together a “cold-weather kit” to tackle the cold weather, give us a call. We can get your cycling clothes in gear and ready to ride. Now get out there! P.S. We still love to ski!
