Best strategies for coping with single digit commutes
The title says it all. It seems like when the temps begin to dip into sub-20F then all of my so-called "technical apparel" seems to be almost useless, not that it pretty much all sucks at just about any temperature anyway. I've gotta bike 11.5 miles all on the LFP - out there completely exposed for pretty much my entire ride. I didn't ride the last couple days because I was a bit concerned about ice on the LFP, mainly because it doesn't seem to get salted very thoroughly. I was also concerned because I don't have any gear for super-cold weather unless I start dipping into regular people clothes which are not necessarily breathable, don't have pit zips, not made of wool, etc. I have a 100 percent wool commando sweater that would probably work well as a mid layer under a winter coat and I was thinking I could double up with my thinner tights underneath my thicker windproof/waterproof tights. Feet are a problem though. If I keep riding clipless I can only fit a thin pair of wicking socks under some Wigwam Merino wool socks, all crammed into my cycling shoes with some neoprene booties over the outside. My feet can get cold even on days in the higher teens or even low 20s, let alone single digits or minus single digits. I don't want to have to keep riding the bus and train because I REALLY HATE THE BUS! Once I get my car fixed that's always an option, but I would prefer to ride if only I can just find some way to do it an not be miserable.
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Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Brian Thomas on -
Rapha, Ibex, Smartwool, Sugoi, Castelli, etc... all make them. Rapha, Castelli, Giordana, Sugoi, and a few others also make heavier weight, fleece backed winter jerseys.
Just google "Merino Wool Cycling Jersey" and you'll get more than enough options. Not too many LBS in Chicago carry this kind of stuff, so you'll probably have to order it online.
Gene Tenner said:Where do you get the Merino wool blend long sleeve jersey?
Brian Thomas said:When I head out for my winter rides (usually between 30-60 miles) and the temps are low, I go with the following:
Hands: merino wool glove liners, Craft Siberian gloves (put an extra pair of glove liners in a pocket, they'll get sweaty, and you'll want to change them if you stop somewhere)
Head: Merino wool helmet liner and fleece neck collar
Torso: Merino wool baselayer, Merino wool blend long sleeve jersey, or if it's really cold a winter jersey, wind stopper softshell jacket
Legs: Knee warmers, Gore wind stopper softshell tights
Feet: Merino wool liners, merino wool thermal socks, Lake Cycling CX140 winter shoes, neoprene overshoes
With the feet, if you want to keep riding clipless you just may have to bite the bullet and get a pair of winter cycling shoes. Shimano, Lake and Mavic all make pretty good ones. It sucks, because it means spending more money, but it really beats the alternative. If you don't want to shell out for winter shoes, a buddy of mine uses a pair of regular cycling shoes one size too large, so he can wear a heavier sock underneath.
And remember, stopping the wind is waaaay more important than insulation. If you have the right layers on, your body heat from cycling should be enough. It's the wind that'll make you cold and miserable. If you use wind stopper shells on your legs, torso, hands and feet, you should be plenty warm in almost any weathers.
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Permalink Reply by Rachel on -
My daily ride is only a mere 8 to 10 miles round trip, but I still get cold sometimes, and usually its lack of preparation. Having not checked to see that a temp drop in the evening will leave me aching for that heavier pair of gloves or face mask is a thing of the past. I agree 100% on the lobster gloves, and Smartwool is one of my favorites for socks and other stuff. Also, I'm in agreement with "h" about your tight shoes. With no room in your shoe for your toes to move, they get cold real fast! However, I believe its really about half gear, and half mental. The number one thing that keeps me warm in the frozen outdoors is that I like to sing while I ride. Keeps my mind off the cold and warms me up too! Give it a try! Also, think warm thoughts! I know it sounds ridiculous, but I used to work outside year-round for years, and this works! Layer, start with and keep your hands and feet warm and dry, be prepared to shed layers if you get too hot, and bring an extra layer or two in case you are too cold. Imagine you are on an island or somewhere wonderful, and before you know it, you"ll be at your destination. Whatever you do, aim to enjoy the ride and don't hesitate to stop if you need to adjust/warm your fingers up against your skin for a minute or two. Ride safe!
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Permalink Reply by Adam Batty on -
Ok well my first suggestion would be not to ride "kilted" ahaha.
But seriously, I was facing the same problem with my feet on my 15 mile commute. Winter cycling shoes (either Lake or Sidi) are amazing but amazingly expensive. As a cheaper alternative (assuming you have a pair of wind-and-waterproof, non-cycling boots/shoes) you could look at getting a pair of Power Grips for about $25. They're not quite as stiff-feeling as riding clipless but they're hands-free and will let you use regular shoes while still adding efficiency to your pedaling, and relieving pressure on the soles of your feet. Also look at some neoprene socks to go over your woolies.
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Permalink Reply by Gene Tenner on
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Bravo. Yes on the Power Grips. I have used them for years and the toes do not go numb anymore. Plus, they free you up to use whatever shoe or boot you want to stay warm.
Adam Batty said:Ok well my first suggestion would be not to ride "kilted" ahaha.
But seriously, I was facing the same problem with my feet on my 15 mile commute. Winter cycling shoes (either Lake or Sidi) are amazing but amazingly expensive. As a cheaper alternative (assuming you have a pair of wind-and-waterproof, non-cycling boots/shoes) you could look at getting a pair of Power Grips for about $25. They're not quite as stiff-feeling as riding clipless but they're hands-free and will let you use regular shoes while still adding efficiency to your pedaling, and relieving pressure on the soles of your feet. Also look at some neoprene socks to go over your woolies.
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Permalink Reply by Adam Batty on
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I'm a recent (just this winter) convert, but I was pleasantly surprised at how well they ride. I made fun of my dad for years for using these instead of clipless pedals, but I guess he gets the last laugh.
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Permalink Reply by James BlackHeron on -
You mean that the latest race-oriented hardware isn't always the best choice for city riding?
SAY IT ISN'T SO!
Adam Batty said:I'm a recent (just this winter) convert, but I was pleasantly surprised at how well they ride. I made fun of my dad for years for using these instead of clipless pedals, but I guess he gets the last laugh.
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