As the leaves fall and the mercury drops, many cyclists hang up their helmets for the season. But with the right winter cycling gear, you can keep on pedaling safely and comfortably through even the chilliest months. We’ve rounded up 11 must-have items to help you embrace the joys of winter riding.
Illuminating Your Way: Front and Wheel Lights
When the sun sets early, powerful lights are your best defense against the dark. The Knog Blinder 900 front light blasts out an impressive 900 lumens, illuminating unlit roads up to 100 meters ahead. For a battery-free solution, consider a dynamo light like the Axa Nxt 60 Steady LED, which harnesses your pedal power to keep you visible.
Don’t forget your wheels! Spoke lights can be fiddly, but Halfords’ valve cap lights screw on easily to create a mesmerizing Tron-like effect. They’re inexpensive, kid-friendly, and add an extra layer of visibility.
Be Seen, Be Safe: Hi-Vis Wear
High-visibility clothing is a winter cycling staple. The Rapha Commuter Jacket combines breathability, water-resistance, and tasteful reflectivity in a sleek package. For a more budget-friendly option, Decathlon’s hi-vis snap band wraps around your arm or leg to boost your visibility to drivers.
According to a cycling safety expert, “Wearing hi-vis clothing can increase a cyclist’s visibility to drivers by up to 80%, significantly reducing the risk of accidents in low-light conditions.”
Toasty Extremities: Heated Gloves and Snoods
Frozen fingers can quickly sap the fun out of winter rides. Sealskinz’ heated cycling gloves are a game-changer, with breathable insulation, waterproofing, and up to six hours of battery-powered warmth. For versatile neck and face protection, you can’t beat the Original Buff merino snood. Wear it as a neck warmer, face mask, or even a makeshift skull cap.
Smart Helmets and Rearview Radar
The Livall Evo21 helmet packs more tech than early space shuttles. Automatic brake lights, turn signals, and a crash sensor that alerts emergency contacts make this lid a smart choice for commuters. Pair it with the Garmin Varia rearview radar, which gives audible alerts when vehicles approach from behind, for an extra layer of safety.
Fending Off the Elements
Winter riding means dealing with rain, mud, and road spray. Ass Savers’ minimalist mudguards attach easily to almost any saddle, sparing your backside from the worst of it. For more comprehensive coverage, SKS Chromoplastic mudguards are a reliable classic.
When the mercury really plummets, Van Rysel’s thermal bib tights provide crucial core warmth and protection for long rides. Top them off with a Proviz reflective backpack, which keeps gear dry while incorporating the brand’s signature reflective material for 360-degree nighttime visibility.
Key Takeaways
- Invest in powerful lights for both your bike and your body
- Layer up with hi-vis clothing and thermal wear
- Consider tech like smart helmets and radar for extra safety
- Don’t neglect mudguards and waterproof gear
With the right preparation and gear, winter cycling can be an invigorating and rewarding experience. By prioritizing visibility, warmth, and dry comfort, you’ll be ready to tackle whatever Jack Frost throws your way. So bundle up, clip in, and embrace the chilly challenges and frosty joys of riding through the winter months.
