Tips for cycling in winter: stay warm and dry on your ride

The cycling season doesn’t come to a close at the end of summer – you can go mountain biking, cycle to work or just set off on a little trip in autumn or winter, too. However, you need the right kit to combat the chilly temperatures and dark evenings, so you can enjoy safe, warm rides even in the colder months.

Staying warm on your bike in winter

Exposed body parts, like your hands, feet and head, are the most vulnerable when cycling. These sensitive points have to contend with lots of wind and, in turn, cold, when you’re on the road. Overshoes, helmet liners and gloves offer great protection against cold, damp weather. Helmet liners are also a handy choice for everyday commuter cyclists: they serve as under-helmet protection against the cold and can then be worn as a trendy cap.

Apart from that, it’s worth wearing a base layer of thermal underwear. Windproof or rainproof cycling jackets and trousers will help when temperatures drop. You can also warm yourself from the inside with hot tea, for example; take it with you in an insulated flask. You can do the same with coffee and enjoy it at the station or on the train if you’re a commuter.

Good vision in the rain

Drizzle and biting wind are some of the most miserable conditions to deal with when on your bike. That’s why it’s even more important to keep your vision clear when cycling in awful weather. Anti-fog or VARiO glasses can help with this: anti-fog glasses are the cheaper option, but, unlike the pricier VARiO glasses, they don’t adjust to brightness.

Staying safe on your bike

Front and rear lights are compulsory by law, but there’s one question that’ll help you to choose the right ones: do you primarily want to be visible to other road users, or do you want to light your own way? If you primarily need the light so others can see you, we’d recommend USB-rechargeable models. If you want to hit the trails after work, though, we’d also recommend adding lights on your handlebars and helmet, in addition to the one at the back of your bike. If you light the terrain in front of you at head height, any obstacles throw far less shadow.

Reflective clothing makes you more visible in summer and winter alike. You can buy jackets or trousers with reflective strips or stick reflective tape onto your kit. There are also fluorescent vests that you can pull over your clothing – whatever the season.

Maintenance is crucial in snowy, icy conditions

In winter, salt keeps the roads clear of snow and ice – but salt is also your bike’s worst enemy. Even though it’s a pain, you’ll do you and your bike a big favour if you can quickly rinse it down every time you use it in winter. Then, dry it off and oil the chain. Otherwise it’ll quickly start to rust.