I love winter riding! Something about that added element of intensity/danger is alluring to me. The main concern for me is just ice, but on those days, I just ride my 29er for the extra tread. The season is coming!
If you have to stop on any occasion when you need bare hands(phone messages or at a puncture) ,( put your gloves under your shirt under the jacket , so they'll stay warm when your ready to continue
My preferred method for cold weather clothing: - short sleeve Gabba-like shirts with (NAnoflex or Merino wool) arm warmers. (Sometimes multiple) - Short Winter bibs with (Nanoflex or Merinowool) leg warmers (sometimes 2) -Old socks, cut open over my shoes + overshoes - Merino gloves + liners and always take spare gloves on longer cold rides - buff for the neck/head - yellow tint glasses on gray day’s - rain jacket / extra dry undershirt when stops are included.
Merino base-layers are a god-send. I was wearing synthetic ones for years before I decided to splash out on Merino. They're perfect for wearing under off-the-bike clothing, too. I usually stick one on under a hoodie before I take the dog for a walk in winter.
I can add to the conversation that wool is really the only choice for a base layer since it is the only material that keeps its insulating property even while it is wet. The Norwegian army experimented for decades with synthetic winter clothing, but returned to simple wool since every other choice saw cold-related injuries spike significantly.
Winter clothes in the UK and winter clothes needed for the upper midwest of the United States are two very different needs. Keeping core warm is vital but so is sweat management when your riding at 10F (-12C). If you sweat and then soak your clothing then your core temp can tank and that can be dangerous in such lows.
You guys really need a Canadian correspondent for these winter features... For the price of all the fancy technical fabric getup you need to not freeze to death trying to train outdoors in winter in Quebec, you could literally buy a direct drive indoor trainer *and* a beater bike to ruin on the salty slushy roads!
100% agree, even in Ontario winter temps and conditions drop well beyond any of the gear ratings for most of the season, 0C is just the beginning for us...
I'd love to see this video done again, but on a budget. Its very easy to keep warm and comfortable with lots of money, but a lot more tricky when on a budget. All the soft shell fabrics cost an arm and a leg, as do decent long bib tights and often race capes
I'm searching charity shops and 2nd hand stores. Not only for biking clothes but things designed for other sports- /outdooractivites. I am a bit weary about Gore Tex and occasionally the softshell becomes too warm. An oldfashioned windbreaker of a hardweaved cotton mix can be sprayed or waxed with Barbour or Fjällräven wax bars and a hairdryer and be really waterproof.
@@johannas.l.brushane2518 charity shops are a great shout. I’ve found slim fitting climbing jackets from north face that don’t flap around. Cheap as chips
Gloves ? I'm Canadian and so I know Cold. Wearing tights, three layer jackets, etc. in fine but you need gloves - preferably gloves with leather palms and fingers to insulate from the cold. Its also worth mentioning that cotton when wet makes you colder so avoid cotton base layers and finally wool based tights, jackets, base layers may be more expensive but will last ten times longer. (my icebreaker hoodie is twenty years old).
using electricaly heated gloves ans socks, two pair of tights, witer shoes and overshoes, softshell jacket and hardshell mountainering GrotexPro jackecket, two headscarfs and an thick cap under the helmet. ligts on the helmet and the backpack, two headlights and one backlight
The "losing most heat from your head "myth"" stems from US soldiers in arctic conditions I believe. This is as they didn't use head covers, and a study said they lost a lot of heat due to that, so the myth of 80% came about. So it is true that if everything else is covered, you will lose most of your heat through your head, BUT it isn't a critical body area to hold heat. Always prioritise keeping the core warm first ;)
For sure you are right, your ears however are pretty vital to cover up as they're particularly sensitive to the cold! Often it's not a question of 'losing heat' but of perception of the cold
You are right 'bout covering the core proper first. But when done so, you loose 80% of your heat on your head. It increases cause of the other covers ;)
It's definitely a myth, you don't loose more heat than anywhere else. For most others areas its just not common not to be covered by some layer of clothing.
Bright kit the more reflective the better. And lights! The amount of riders you see in all black, no lights getting towards twiilight when the sun is low and dazzling and they are riding next to a dark hedge! Madness!
Couldn't agree more. On an overcast uk day dark clothing makes you invisible regardless of how many reflective patches you have. Hi-vis gilet (cycle specific) pus front and rear lights are a must in winter.
Agreed, but that’s what bright lights on your bike are for. Minimum 500 lumens headlight (2), and at least one tail light that can be switched to a daytime setting of at least 65 lumens. Nightrider and Bontrager are just two brands that can be found all over the place at reasonable prices, and there are others as well.
Just don't wear yellow,/ green hi viz unless you are in an urban environment. Out in the lanes you need orange or red. They stand out better. Simple bright red is one of the best colours and it doesn't fade as quickly as the hi viz stuff. Also you don't look like a safety dork.
I will say wool is absolutely your friend. I found my wool neck gaiter absolutely essential when commuting in the winter. I also made sure to get a wool hat to go under my helmet. the big advantage is that they keep you warm even when wet and you don't have to wash them as often
In Western New York, USA, we do a lot of fat biking on trails. I have found using dedicated winter shoes, goggles and a ski helmet work the best to keep you warm. I used to ride with a bike helmet with a skull cap until I tried a ski helmet. The difference is amazing. Riding on the roads is a no go due to the amount of salt on the roads. It quickly ruins the drivetrains. Great video. Cheers
I will never, in winter, during the day, ride without a hi-vis outer jacket. Ditto for strobe lights. It may not be stylish, but I would rather have my clothing derided by a passing motorist, than my stylish attire commented on by the EMTs.
Let's hope you dim your front strobes on bike paths and narrow lanes. Mega-watt lights in strobe mode are blinding and unnecessary. Other road users need not only to see you, but see around you. Do you drive around at night with your high beams on all the time just to be seen?
I like my Cycle jackets to be a tight fit... hence I always order the XXXXXL !!!! Mind you, i don't need to spend much on it... as I've already got a good "insulation"
Mad props to them sitting in the winter kit indoors and recording under the studio lamps.. I try to only put the kit on mere minutes before going out as it gets hot so quick in it.
Icy, dark roads and about 5 F with a 10 mph wind in Idaho, I pedal a velomobile while wearing a snowsuit and double snow hats that cover my face. Seeing Mercury and Venus rising over the Tetons, and the Snake River trail makes the cold almost enjoyable. Thanks for the video! Time to pedal off to work!
Multiple pairs of gloves for different degrees of cold weather. Some light gloves for fall, then a heavy set of gloves when winter starts, followed by lobster claw gloves, can even do a base layer glove under the claws. Then boots, a size up, to fit in multiple pairs of socks without restricting blood flow. I'm soft, if my hands or feet are cold I'm done riding.
The amount of time I spent to get ready for my last long ride is embarrassing. "Wait my sleeves! My gaiter! My shoe covers, knee warmers, gloves!" Then putting it all on lol
I remember looking at all sorts of expensive winter clothing before my first winter in road cycling but i find a merino base layer, a summer jersey and a rain cape pretty much does the job for the top half.
Good one. Even though this should all be intuitive surprisingly it is not. Perfect cold weather kit develops over time and experience which you guys clearly have. Thank you.
Definitely! I did a very wet ride with a friend at the weekend and he still hasn't got himself clip-on mudguards even though I've been "encouraging" him for over a year. It's a requirement for the club I ride with when we get to winter. Oh, I miss the club rides!
I do have a top-tip for keeping your toes warm on a winter ride. I use it every year and it works a treat. Apply a small amount of capsaicin cream (the stuff used for muscle pain) to your toes. I apply it using a tried and tested double toe rub method instead of putting any on my fingers which will most definitely end up in my eyes or even the gentleman's area and sting the bejesus out of you. Woolen socks without synthetics are good to.
Was n't too bad here in Thailand for my first "winter" ride this morning ....a cool 20 degrees C ! Base layers ? Rain jackets ? Tights ? Skull caps ? No, but I did have to wear a long sleeved jersey though.......
@9:20 No! Use overshoes without a zipper. The zipper is the weak point and it if the overshoe is nice and tight, it breaks quicly. The trick to put on zipperless overshoes is to put them on inside-out and upside down before putting the shoes on, and then pulling them down over the shoes afterwards.
Wool also keeps your body warmth even if the garment becomes wet. Body parts that stick out are often prone to be colder, so there are like boxerknickers and sports top to keep the bum and bo*bs warm when running, cycling or skiing in icy winds.
A Erie Pa triathlete suggestion. Put your latex swim cap on underneath your balaclava. This will keep your head warm and dry. It will also remind riders that there is a nice warm heated pool somewhere to swim in.....like the Glenwood Y.
Had a bad moment a few weeks ago, having forgotten my gloves, after 25 miles I could no longer change gear because my fingers were too cold and ended up climbing up a 7% climb in the big ring 🥶
For really bad weather look into buffalo type systems, a windproof with fleece underneath. They usually have pit zips, this is one thing cycling clothing dies not seem to have that often.
I suffer from Reynaud's syndrome and get very cold hands and feet, painfully cold in fact! Over the years I've worked out some solutions. For my hands I will wear a pair of very thin silk gloves underneath my good winter gloves and it works well. I've got some smartwool skiing socks that come to just below the knee. Can't see them underneath bib leggings and they keep my feet and legs lovely and warm. But if it is really cold, or my Reynaud's is worse than normal I use hand and foot warmers! Or I get on my turbo trainer in the garage!
What kind of headwear would you recommend for women with long hair? Those skull caps tend to squeeze hair down the neck and just don't stay in place very well. I wish Manon showed what/how she's wearing a skull cap.
My wife wears a lightweight nylon/polyester balaclava. It has enough stretch in it that it does not restrict her hair and as it goes around the neck and over the head it stays in place.
I used to have hair nearly to the bottom of my back. I used to plait the first couple of inches so it sat close to my neck. Easily put a skull cap on, then a neck warmer helped keep it in place while I put a jacket on over my pony tail. I used this for hiking/walking in colder weather, as well as when cycling. If you don't bunch your hair into a bun then you can get your helmet on without problems.
When I was looking for a skull cap the other day I noticed you can get female specific ones. I think they have a hole at the back to pop long hair through?
Winter boots, much better than overshoes Over-trousers are a life-saver when it’s really wet, stops the rain getting in to the boots too 👍🏻 I use a winter hat covering my ears, nice. But also carry a thin balaclava that can cover mouth and nose if needed, for an extra layer when it’s really cold, especially after dark.
I agree. Overshoes are a right faff to get on and off. I've been rocking some Shimano winter boots with a neoprene cuff for years now and I never get cold feet. On mild winter days I only need a thin summer sock but if its cooler , merino socks are just the ticket.
The problem with over shoes is that they only work in dry condition. From the point where wetness (typical for winter) is entering your shoes over the cleat connection they are ineffective. I solved this with special winter shoes, as they have no bridge.
Dear Global Cycling Network-Team, On one of the youtube-videos about the most dangerous road in the world, from Irkutsk in Northern Siberia to the Arctic Ocean, temperatures of down to minus 50° Centigrade are no rarity in Winter! Siberian truck drivers met an "extreme cyclist" from Germany, who declined the offer of a lift and managed a distance of 290 kilometres as the first and only cyclist to achieve that! I observed his equipment, which included handlebar-muffs, heated boots etc! Remarkable! You could call this total madness, but it proves, that it can be done!
Awesome advice as always, you should do a canned shopping list of essential items, if possible with links, maybe even to the GCN store. There are almost too many choices for essential items!!
We'd love to, there's plenty to see on our store website, but we also feel that people should chose what they like best - we'd rather not recommend certain products as the best, as what is best for one rider might not be so good for another!
Hi-vis and reflective are not the same thing... Pretty sure there's a GCN video about effectiveness at various stages of darkness out there, where reflective gear isn't much use in that transitional point that a lot of winter riding takes place in. I do personally rely on lights mostly then though
My tip is to go out cold because you will warm up. I remember cycling to work in -4. The first 2 miles was freezing, up the slope up soon warmed me up. When I went out warm I soon overheated, had to stop and remove clothing wasting time.
I used to buy into lycra (not in anymore), it's an absolute turn off for me now as a cyclist, I just wear comfortable clothes for cycling journeys (especially since I commute a lot in the city).
Wear what you're most comfortable in for sure! If you want to go fast then maybe 'lycra' is the best choice, but there's no reason why you shouldn't wear something different!
I used to do that but I always ended up getting my trousers shredded by my chainset. I work for a care home though so I just get changed into scrubs when I arrive.
@Manon If you are serious about winter riding, at least wear some summer gloves. It will protect you hands if you fall (with slippery roads) and also improve your grip and confort on the handlebars (i still use aluminum, and it can be quite cold. Also if it rains or when i sweat the handlebars become slippery)
Outside is so much better than the trainer, so much better!! But it comes to a point where it's too cold and too much snow and you are stuck on the trainer. Then it's like I am not going back outside until spring
U kept mentioning the importance of high viz on those fancy jackets but what about during the day you are still just black and can't be seen on dull winter days
I agree. I commute in London and hi-viz colours really do make other cyclist stand out during the day, regardless of whether they have lights on or not. Reflective features only work during the night, unfortunately... I used to be more relaxed about being visible, but cycling through heavy traffic changed my mind. Being seen took priority over looking pro. I see a few drivers driving with foggy windows and who knows how manny do it with poor eyesight....
I think you guys missed an important base layer... sports bra!! Too long I have suffered a soggy sports bra in winter that had me freezing. Would love to hear some suggestions for best sweat wicking fabric/sports bras on the market!
There are bras and tops made of woolmixes, typically in the running, hiking or skiing department if you shop by sport. You can also get good quality undies in stores designed for outdoors, hunting and such. The label Icebreaker have various models from bra to like tank tops
I am a big fan and I love the show. I am also very tall so I have some questions for Connor. - Are you aware of any clothing brands that make tall sizes? - If you are getting a new Orbea, what is happening to your old Pinarello? I don't really need a new bike but your old one might just fit me. Many thanks
Overshoes baffle me. Winter cycling shoes/boots have been available for ages. I don't wear spats or galoshers over my shoes off the bike to keep my feet warm and dry - why have bike-specific spats or galoshers instead of warm and dry winter cycling boots?
winter booties are a good option for those that ride in really cold conditions! Most riders use the same shoe all year round, and the benefit of overshoes is that they stop water/cold air coming in from the top of the shoe and cover vents on the bottom of the shoe. Cycling shoes are often a little tighter than walking boots etc and a cyclists feet get much less warm then a walker/runners. They're a pretty weird item of clothing but hopefully that explains why they're popular!
@@gcn They really never worked for me - and I went through several pairs (with that zip at the back definitely being "the weakest link" and failing first) before discovering how nice it is to ride without ice blocks for feet in warm dry cycling boots... But then I'm a softy not Manon!
@@gcn No stop this nonsense, u can use wintershoes from +15° to -10°, an overshoe is just NOT a replacement over a good wintershoes, do some research before saying dumb things! Overshoes are never totally waterproof (I can stand in 10cm water with my wintershoes and they don't get any water inside), they don't last longer than a winter and the underside of the shoe is not protected enough! "cover vents on the bottom of the shoe." no they don't! "they stop water/cold air coming in from the top of the shoe" again no they don't and wintershoes do a much better job (they have an elastic band on the ankles) WINTERSHOES>OVERSHOES IN EVERY ASPECT! -Cheaper (because they last longer) -Waterproof (not waterresistant like overshoes) -Warmer -Easier to get on Oh btw I don't hate overshoes I use them to but only up to +12°C and that's not a lot and they still don't last longer than 2 years (most of us don't get sponsored)! It's just stupid that this idea that wintershoes are a luxury and overshoes can do everything is still this persistent! Maybe if u get sponsored by Northwave this wont be your opinion anymore?
I dont think there is a pair of gloves that exists which will keep your hands warm here in toronto during the winter at -20 plus wind. Love all your videos !!
Somewhat less to do with toughness than physical attributes. Surface area to volume ratio greatly affects heat loss. Helps to be shorter and rounder like an Eskimo. Being long and lanky makes it harder to keep extremities warm. She's also carrying around ever so slightly more "insulation" than Ollie.
but constant snow and ice on the roads making it impossible to cycle relaxed... if you dont have mild winters its pretty much impossible to have a proper outside training from dec to mar
Oddly I like to dress for the better, rather than the worst, but my typical body temp is about 95F so I don’t get as cold as easily. So my 15F gear is chamois and short sleeve jersey under a simple wind proof biking jacket and pants.
What about a base layers? Craft makes a really good long and short sleeve cycling specific base layer shirts with what they call wind stopper. Not a sponsor...unfortunately. I do find that a base layer that breathes but blocks wind, insert your favorite brand, combined with a normal summer jersey and arm warmers is good for 8 to 14 Celsius range at 30km/hr. Pro tip wash before you wear as I had a black base layer that lost a lot of dye when I first hand washed it.
Layer up like an onion is the key! :). Don't over-dress. Winter gear comes out when it's under 5'c for me. Above that it's summer clothing with an extra layer(gilet,arm and leg warmers) and base layer.
Jesper Svensson (Sweden) has some of that on his channel.He uses those lobster mittens. I thought about using skiing gloves but it may not be sufficient (in skiing you typically use hands and arms in motion more than in cycling).
I wear merino all the time, but it performs poorly in the wet. Heavy and slow drying. Also polyester responds much better to be wrung dry by hand if very wet.
Dark, icy and sub-zero (fah., -18 coldest yet). White or reflective jackets- not black no matter how slimming it is. No one cares how you look, that only at the gym. Studded tires when needed no matter how crappy they feel - that cast (plaster in the u k) is going to feel worse. For the cold I refer you to schrek"layers". Tank base, long sleeve base, thermal mid weight jersey or jacket and white or reflective shell on top. Any good all purpose athletic tights under your bibs will do, wind-pants over those for the really cold days. Any good thinsulite gloves will work and a skiers powder mitt over those on the coldest days for keeping the chill out. For the feet - winter riding boots, period. My favorites 45nth japanthers. Size up for merino wool socks. I commute year round in western mass (on the route Si and J-pow rode, by the covered bridge) and there really isn't any weather that cannot be overcome. Just ride!
Been having difficulty keeping my feet & hands warm during the coldest winter rides. On the feet, I've tried overshoes, two pair of socks, thick insulated socks, wool socks and disposable toe warmers (which work okay but I'd like to move away from them if possible). As for gloves, have tried latex under winter gloves, glove liners and again, disposable hand warmers. What's your opinion regarding electric gloves and socks? Looking for a permanent solution. Maybe I just need to peddle faster :)
Those look like pretty neat riding clothes. I was wondering how they would function in my neck of the woods. I rode this morning in 18 degree F temperatures with a 20 mph wind coming out of the NW. I did 22 miles in this weather. What range of temperatures with winds from 10-20 mph would the riding clothes in this video be good for?
Been there done that...nothing like riding in the morning in -10 and in a snowstorm...
At least you get a lot of headshaking from others :)
I love winter riding! Something about that added element of intensity/danger is alluring to me. The main concern for me is just ice, but on those days, I just ride my 29er for the extra tread. The season is coming!
Do you plan to switch your "follow camera" car/motorbike to electric? No more engine sound everytime you do talk while riding :)
Yes please!
its easy to ignore
with GCN's talk about reducing carbon footprints, you'd think this would be a given.
If you have to stop on any occasion when you need bare hands(phone messages or at a puncture) ,( put your gloves under your shirt under the jacket , so they'll stay warm when your ready to continue
Thank you for this mate
That's a great tip. Thank you!
Bigger shoes was my wow moment in keeping feet warm. Up half a size makes a huge difference with merino thermal socks.
Bigger shoes + wool socks + neoprene booties = super warm feet!
And maybe some insulating innersole.
My preferred method for cold weather clothing:
- short sleeve Gabba-like shirts with (NAnoflex or Merino wool) arm warmers. (Sometimes multiple)
- Short Winter bibs with (Nanoflex or Merinowool) leg warmers (sometimes 2)
-Old socks, cut open over my shoes + overshoes
- Merino gloves + liners and always take spare gloves on longer cold rides
- buff for the neck/head
- yellow tint glasses on gray day’s
- rain jacket / extra dry undershirt when stops are included.
heated socks too
I love my Louis Garneau neoprene overshoes. One of my best cold weather purchases aside from my gloves.
Merino base-layers are a god-send. I was wearing synthetic ones for years before I decided to splash out on Merino. They're perfect for wearing under off-the-bike clothing, too. I usually stick one on under a hoodie before I take the dog for a walk in winter.
I can add to the conversation that wool is really the only choice for a base layer since it is the only material that keeps its insulating property even while it is wet. The Norwegian army experimented for decades with synthetic winter clothing, but returned to simple wool since every other choice saw cold-related injuries spike significantly.
Winter clothes in the UK and winter clothes needed for the upper midwest of the United States are two very different needs. Keeping core warm is vital but so is sweat management when your riding at 10F (-12C). If you sweat and then soak your clothing then your core temp can tank and that can be dangerous in such lows.
best thing for winter a spare base layer in a nice little waterproof bag a little bit of bulk, but so nice to put on at a halfway tea stop lovely !!
You guys really need a Canadian correspondent for these winter features... For the price of all the fancy technical fabric getup you need to not freeze to death trying to train outdoors in winter in Quebec, you could literally buy a direct drive indoor trainer *and* a beater bike to ruin on the salty slushy roads!
100% agree, even in Ontario winter temps and conditions drop well beyond any of the gear ratings for most of the season, 0C is just the beginning for us...
I'd love to see this video done again, but on a budget. Its very easy to keep warm and comfortable with lots of money, but a lot more tricky when on a budget. All the soft shell fabrics cost an arm and a leg, as do decent long bib tights and often race capes
I'm searching charity shops and 2nd hand stores. Not only for biking clothes but things designed for other sports- /outdooractivites. I am a bit weary about Gore Tex and occasionally the softshell becomes too warm. An oldfashioned windbreaker of a hardweaved cotton mix can be sprayed or waxed with Barbour or Fjällräven wax bars and a hairdryer and be really waterproof.
@@johannas.l.brushane2518 charity shops are a great shout. I’ve found slim fitting climbing jackets from north face that don’t flap around. Cheap as chips
Oooo Canada. Specifically Alberta. Yesterday I was passed by snowmobiles during my ride..... Bet that if you can! 😁 Yes I got video 😅
Send it in
GCN Inspiration :)
Only counts if it's on Strava!
Gloves ? I'm Canadian and so I know Cold. Wearing tights, three layer jackets, etc. in fine but you need gloves - preferably gloves with leather palms and fingers to insulate from the cold. Its also worth mentioning that cotton when wet makes you colder so avoid cotton base layers and finally wool based tights, jackets, base layers may be more expensive but will last ten times longer. (my icebreaker hoodie is twenty years old).
Thanks for the tips for autumn/spring cycling. Greetings from Russia!
using electricaly heated gloves ans socks, two pair of tights, witer shoes and overshoes, softshell jacket and hardshell mountainering GrotexPro jackecket, two headscarfs and an thick cap under the helmet. ligts on the helmet and the backpack, two headlights and one backlight
The "losing most heat from your head "myth"" stems from US soldiers in arctic conditions I believe. This is as they didn't use head covers, and a study said they lost a lot of heat due to that, so the myth of 80% came about. So it is true that if everything else is covered, you will lose most of your heat through your head, BUT it isn't a critical body area to hold heat. Always prioritise keeping the core warm first ;)
Just about to post the same!
thanks, thought the same thing when Oli said it. I believe this belongs to „the ten greatest myths in science“ like the 10% rule etc
For sure you are right, your ears however are pretty vital to cover up as they're particularly sensitive to the cold! Often it's not a question of 'losing heat' but of perception of the cold
You are right 'bout covering the core proper first. But when done so, you loose 80% of your heat on your head. It increases cause of the other covers ;)
It's definitely a myth, you don't loose more heat than anywhere else. For most others areas its just not common not to be covered by some layer of clothing.
Vermont winter riding is great with the right kit. It gets cold here but I'd take cold over wet. Actually just got back in from a snowy ride.
I would rather be with short bib shorts and gloves than long bib shorts and no gloves
long bib shorts = big tights
I think you are confusing high viz and reflective here. The most dangerous time is twilight and that black reflective panel won't help at all.
Bright kit the more reflective the better. And lights! The amount of riders you see in all black, no lights getting towards twiilight when the sun is low and dazzling and they are riding next to a dark hedge! Madness!
Couldn't agree more. On an overcast uk day dark clothing makes you invisible regardless of how many reflective patches you have. Hi-vis gilet (cycle specific) pus front and rear lights are a must in winter.
@@samuelhurst9996 I dont know how people think these black garment are 'hi viz'
Agreed, but that’s what bright lights on your bike are for. Minimum 500 lumens headlight (2), and at least one tail light that can be switched to a daytime setting of at least 65 lumens. Nightrider and Bontrager are just two brands that can be found all over the place at reasonable prices, and there are others as well.
Just don't wear yellow,/ green hi viz unless you are in an urban environment. Out in the lanes you need orange or red. They stand out better. Simple bright red is one of the best colours and it doesn't fade as quickly as the hi viz stuff. Also you don't look like a safety dork.
Manon calling Ollie soft for wearing gloves. priceless.
She straight out called him a pussy..
She's one to talk... if it's warm enough for bare hands, it's warm enough for shorts. She needs to HTFU herself. LOL
@@johnandrews3568 this
I will say wool is absolutely your friend. I found my wool neck gaiter absolutely essential when commuting in the winter. I also made sure to get a wool hat to go under my helmet. the big advantage is that they keep you warm even when wet and you don't have to wash them as often
UK winters .... LOL Come out for a ride in Canada in February :)
@@MrJx4000 From B.C. here. That would certainly be a ride (but hooray for no blackflies!). :)
We get to about 3 degrees here!! I lol 😅😅
@Valoro85 Not to mention the risk of some spot of ice on the road
In Western New York, USA, we do a lot of fat biking on trails. I have found using dedicated winter shoes, goggles and a ski helmet work the best to keep you warm. I used to ride with a bike helmet with a skull cap until I tried a ski helmet. The difference is amazing. Riding on the roads is a no go due to the amount of salt on the roads. It quickly ruins the drivetrains. Great video. Cheers
Good to see Manon back in the studio!!
I will never, in winter, during the day, ride without a hi-vis outer jacket. Ditto for strobe lights. It may not be stylish, but I would rather have my clothing derided by a passing motorist, than my stylish attire commented on by the EMTs.
Let's hope you dim your front strobes on bike paths and narrow lanes. Mega-watt lights in strobe mode are blinding and unnecessary. Other road users need not only to see you, but see around you. Do you drive around at night with your high beams on all the time just to be seen?
@@oldanslo Not to worry, like most daylight strobes I set mine on a low power setting. Your comments are well appreciated.
the low angle of the sun makes it difficult for cars to see you, especially with the bright sun reflecting off the snow.
I like my Cycle jackets to be a tight fit... hence I always order the XXXXXL !!!! Mind you, i don't need to spend much on it... as I've already got a good "insulation"
Mad props to them sitting in the winter kit indoors and recording under the studio lamps..
I try to only put the kit on mere minutes before going out as it gets hot so quick in it.
Icy, dark roads and about 5 F with a 10 mph wind in Idaho, I pedal a velomobile while wearing a snowsuit and double snow hats that cover my face. Seeing Mercury and Venus rising over the Tetons, and the Snake River trail makes the cold almost enjoyable.
Thanks for the video! Time to pedal off to work!
I layer according to temps. Going out in sub 30 F this morning. Fun!
Mudguards - thats protection right there
On very cold days I often wear a pair of baggy cyclingshorts over the winter tights... this helps to protect the most "delicate areas" better...
Multiple pairs of gloves for different degrees of cold weather. Some light gloves for fall, then a heavy set of gloves when winter starts, followed by lobster claw gloves, can even do a base layer glove under the claws. Then boots, a size up, to fit in multiple pairs of socks without restricting blood flow. I'm soft, if my hands or feet are cold I'm done riding.
"look at the forecast" - here's your forecast UK: chance of rain every day for the rest your life!
totally unfair you forgot to mention hail and fog as the other alternatives to warm and sunny !
Just to get dressed is a training session in itself
The amount of time I spent to get ready for my last long ride is embarrassing. "Wait my sleeves! My gaiter! My shoe covers, knee warmers, gloves!" Then putting it all on lol
No doubt bro.
I remember looking at all sorts of expensive winter clothing before my first winter in road cycling but i find a merino base layer, a summer jersey and a rain cape pretty much does the job for the top half.
I’m new to 🚴 ...I love watching your videos. They are informative and very entertaining 😂
Good one. Even though this should all be intuitive surprisingly it is not. Perfect cold weather kit develops over time and experience which you guys clearly have. Thank you.
Looking at this make feel so Happy to live in Costa Rica, 18 degrees is considered extreme cold here.
Get some mudguards! Just as important as the kit.
Definitely! I did a very wet ride with a friend at the weekend and he still hasn't got himself clip-on mudguards even though I've been "encouraging" him for over a year. It's a requirement for the club I ride with when we get to winter. Oh, I miss the club rides!
I do have a top-tip for keeping your toes warm on a winter ride. I use it every year and it works a treat. Apply a small amount of capsaicin cream (the stuff used for muscle pain) to your toes. I apply it using a tried and tested double toe rub method instead of putting any on my fingers which will most definitely end up in my eyes or even the gentleman's area and sting the bejesus out of you. Woolen socks without synthetics are good to.
Thankfully I live in good ole sunny California.
P.S. I need ride mates.
Was n't too bad here in Thailand for my first "winter" ride this morning ....a cool 20 degrees C ! Base layers ? Rain jackets ? Tights ? Skull caps ? No, but I did have to wear a long sleeved jersey though.......
Phil Gaimon
California is nice since our snow is for recreational purposes only
Errrr.... need to sort out that evil git Newsom first.....
@@MrJx4000 Thats why i have my handy dandy fire retardant spray.
Well I live in Canada eh got various kits and strategies to tackle the weather including warming packs on the fatbike and a emergency blanket.
@9:20 No! Use overshoes without a zipper. The zipper is the weak point and it if the overshoe is nice and tight, it breaks quicly. The trick to put on zipperless overshoes is to put them on inside-out and upside down before putting the shoes on, and then pulling them down over the shoes afterwards.
Planet X do velcro overshoes. They work well and cheap.
No just use wintershoes!
Wool also keeps your body warmth even if the garment becomes wet. Body parts that stick out are often prone to be colder, so there are like boxerknickers and sports top to keep the bum and bo*bs warm when running, cycling or skiing in icy winds.
A Erie Pa triathlete suggestion. Put your latex swim cap on underneath your balaclava. This will keep your head warm and dry. It will also remind riders that there is a nice warm heated pool somewhere to swim in.....like the Glenwood Y.
Had a bad moment a few weeks ago, having forgotten my gloves, after 25 miles I could no longer change gear because my fingers were too cold and ended up climbing up a 7% climb in the big ring 🥶
Ouch!
Loving CA Winter particularly San Diego its just chilly. 🤙
For really bad weather look into buffalo type systems, a windproof with fleece underneath. They usually have pit zips, this is one thing cycling clothing dies not seem to have that often.
The primary function of thumb loops is to substantially reduce heat loss by covering the wrists, where blood vessels are close to the surface.
Just bought a new E Bike, I'll have to wear rags this winter! Great video BTW!
I suffer from Reynaud's syndrome and get very cold hands and feet, painfully cold in fact! Over the years I've worked out some solutions. For my hands I will wear a pair of very thin silk gloves underneath my good winter gloves and it works well. I've got some smartwool skiing socks that come to just below the knee. Can't see them underneath bib leggings and they keep my feet and legs lovely and warm. But if it is really cold, or my Reynaud's is worse than normal I use hand and foot warmers! Or I get on my turbo trainer in the garage!
The Raynauds society also have gloves made with silver thread (really!) which are great for keeping hands warm - can use as liners.
@@kstethespokes1051 that's really interesting Katherine. I'll look that up. Thanks for the information.
@@petebarton5534
wet suit socks work well in cyclocross/gravel/mountain bike shoes - warm feet in most winter conditions
I have three pair of running shorts that I'll be using this winter, running on a treadmill with the Talking Heads in my headphones.
burn the house down
Oli looks like such a Bond Villain in his high-neck black get-up! ha! @2:21
What kind of headwear would you recommend for women with long hair? Those skull caps tend to squeeze hair down the neck and just don't stay in place very well. I wish Manon showed what/how she's wearing a skull cap.
My wife wears a lightweight nylon/polyester balaclava. It has enough stretch in it that it does not restrict her hair and as it goes around the neck and over the head it stays in place.
A good topic to bring up for women and men with long hair.
I used to have hair nearly to the bottom of my back.
I used to plait the first couple of inches so it sat close to my neck. Easily put a skull cap on, then a neck warmer helped keep it in place while I put a jacket on over my pony tail. I used this for hiking/walking in colder weather, as well as when cycling.
If you don't bunch your hair into a bun then you can get your helmet on without problems.
When I was looking for a skull cap the other day I noticed you can get female specific ones. I think they have a hole at the back to pop long hair through?
I live in Iowa so we go from 40 degree Fahrenheit to -20 degrees Fahrenheit in an hour
Finaly Lovely Manon Come Back!
I just wear the same all year round...joys of living in Cycle Heaven...
Winter boots, much better than overshoes
Over-trousers are a life-saver when it’s really wet, stops the rain getting in to the boots too 👍🏻
I use a winter hat covering my ears, nice. But also carry a thin balaclava that can cover mouth and nose if needed, for an extra layer when it’s really cold, especially after dark.
I'm just looking at Over-trousers now, any particular recommendation? Mostly for road but also a little off-road, not a fan of the mtb baggy look
I agree. Overshoes are a right faff to get on and off. I've been rocking some Shimano winter boots with a neoprene cuff for years now and I never get cold feet. On mild winter days I only need a thin summer sock but if its cooler , merino socks are just the ticket.
The problem with over shoes is that they only work in dry condition. From the point where wetness (typical for winter) is entering your shoes over the cleat connection they are ineffective. I solved this with special winter shoes, as they have no bridge.
Dear Global Cycling Network-Team, On one of the youtube-videos about the most dangerous
road in the world, from Irkutsk in Northern Siberia to the Arctic Ocean, temperatures of down to
minus 50° Centigrade are no rarity in Winter! Siberian truck drivers met an "extreme cyclist"
from Germany, who declined the offer of a lift and managed a distance of 290 kilometres
as the first and only cyclist to achieve that! I observed his equipment, which included
handlebar-muffs, heated boots etc! Remarkable! You could call this total madness, but it
proves, that it can be done!
Awesome advice as always, you should do a canned shopping list of essential items, if possible with links, maybe even to the GCN store. There are almost too many choices for essential items!!
We'd love to, there's plenty to see on our store website, but we also feel that people should chose what they like best - we'd rather not recommend certain products as the best, as what is best for one rider might not be so good for another!
Hi-vis and reflective are not the same thing... Pretty sure there's a GCN video about effectiveness at various stages of darkness out there, where reflective gear isn't much use in that transitional point that a lot of winter riding takes place in. I do personally rely on lights mostly then though
My tip is to go out cold because you will warm up. I remember cycling to work in -4. The first 2 miles was freezing, up the slope up soon warmed me up. When I went out warm I soon overheated, had to stop and remove clothing wasting time.
I used to buy into lycra (not in anymore), it's an absolute turn off for me now as a cyclist, I just wear comfortable clothes for cycling journeys (especially since I commute a lot in the city).
Wear what you're most comfortable in for sure! If you want to go fast then maybe 'lycra' is the best choice, but there's no reason why you shouldn't wear something different!
I used to do that but I always ended up getting my trousers shredded by my chainset. I work for a care home though so I just get changed into scrubs when I arrive.
@Manon If you are serious about winter riding, at least wear some summer gloves. It will protect you hands if you fall (with slippery roads) and also improve your grip and confort on the handlebars (i still use aluminum, and it can be quite cold. Also if it rains or when i sweat the handlebars become slippery)
Outside is so much better than the trainer, so much better!! But it comes to a point where it's too cold and too much snow and you are stuck on the trainer. Then it's like I am not going back outside until spring
U kept mentioning the importance of high viz on those fancy jackets but what about during the day you are still just black and can't be seen on dull winter days
I agree. I commute in London and hi-viz colours really do make other cyclist stand out during the day, regardless of whether they have lights on or not. Reflective features only work during the night, unfortunately...
I used to be more relaxed about being visible, but cycling through heavy traffic changed my mind. Being seen took priority over looking pro. I see a few drivers driving with foggy windows and who knows how manny do it with poor eyesight....
I can confirm. I am black and can't be seen on full winter days
@@nluisa this is why I wear a white helmet
I think you guys missed an important base layer... sports bra!! Too long I have suffered a soggy sports bra in winter that had me freezing. Would love to hear some suggestions for best sweat wicking fabric/sports bras on the market!
There are bras and tops made of woolmixes, typically in the running, hiking or skiing department if you shop by sport. You can also get good quality undies in stores designed for outdoors, hunting and such. The label Icebreaker have various models from bra to like tank tops
Excellent - thanks. My personal tip: layer layer layer
I really appreciate the ad breaks in-between the whole Castelli Ad
Manon- that black bike is awesome 🤌
Iron Maiden: "We must prepare ourselves for the elements" (Lord of the Flies)
|m|
Geek
I have a fear of the dark so I stay inside during winter...
I am a big fan and I love the show. I am also very tall so I have some questions for Connor.
- Are you aware of any clothing brands that make tall sizes?
- If you are getting a new Orbea, what is happening to your old Pinarello? I don't really need a new bike but your old one might just fit me.
Many thanks
Overshoes baffle me. Winter cycling shoes/boots have been available for ages. I don't wear spats or galoshers over my shoes off the bike to keep my feet warm and dry - why have bike-specific spats or galoshers instead of warm and dry winter cycling boots?
winter booties are a good option for those that ride in really cold conditions! Most riders use the same shoe all year round, and the benefit of overshoes is that they stop water/cold air coming in from the top of the shoe and cover vents on the bottom of the shoe. Cycling shoes are often a little tighter than walking boots etc and a cyclists feet get much less warm then a walker/runners. They're a pretty weird item of clothing but hopefully that explains why they're popular!
@@gcn They really never worked for me - and I went through several pairs (with that zip at the back definitely being "the weakest link" and failing first) before discovering how nice it is to ride without ice blocks for feet in warm dry cycling boots... But then I'm a softy not Manon!
@@gcn No stop this nonsense, u can use wintershoes from +15° to -10°, an overshoe is just NOT a replacement over a good wintershoes, do some research before saying dumb things!
Overshoes are never totally waterproof (I can stand in 10cm water with my wintershoes and they don't get any water inside), they don't last longer than a winter and the underside of the shoe is not protected enough!
"cover vents on the bottom of the shoe." no they don't!
"they stop water/cold air coming in from the top of the shoe" again no they don't and wintershoes do a much better job (they have an elastic band on the ankles)
WINTERSHOES>OVERSHOES IN EVERY ASPECT!
-Cheaper (because they last longer)
-Waterproof (not waterresistant like overshoes)
-Warmer
-Easier to get on
Oh btw I don't hate overshoes I use them to but only up to +12°C and that's not a lot and they still don't last longer than 2 years (most of us don't get sponsored)!
It's just stupid that this idea that wintershoes are a luxury and overshoes can do everything is still this persistent!
Maybe if u get sponsored by Northwave this wont be your opinion anymore?
@@gcn Ditch the cycling shoes and go with insulated boots with heated socks. -10C
Ollie's looking like a Russian villain from James Bond at 2:20 😁
That baselayer Oli is wearing looks fantastic, can you tell the brand and model?
I can recommend the Sealskin Headgaitor LOVE IT!!!!
I dont think there is a pair of gloves that exists which will keep your hands warm here in toronto during the winter at -20 plus wind. Love all your videos !!
Ollie sporting thick heavy gloves as me lady goes bare handed.. Girl is tough.
Manon is the best.
If it's like -3 degrees or warmer my hands get a little warm and uncomfortable after about 20 mins of riding
Somewhat less to do with toughness than physical attributes. Surface area to volume ratio greatly affects heat loss. Helps to be shorter and rounder like an Eskimo. Being long and lanky makes it harder to keep extremities warm. She's also carrying around ever so slightly more "insulation" than Ollie.
It's winter. Alway take a cape with you. If you have a mechanical you could be stopped for some time. You'll cool down really quickly.
Winter shoes if you have the budget are brilliant.
I have found a better way to keep my bum dry. Use full length mudguards.
Yep, you might still get wet but at least you're not covered in mud, grit and worse things like cow and dog crap.
but constant snow and ice on the roads making it impossible to cycle relaxed... if you dont have mild winters its pretty much impossible to have a proper outside training from dec to mar
I guess there's always fatbiking!
Impossible as well when snow and slosh fill the mudguards and wheels spin no more.
There are studded tyres from Schwalbe, but it's no fun at all to ride on those
Oddly I like to dress for the better, rather than the worst, but my typical body temp is about 95F so I don’t get as cold as easily. So my 15F gear is chamois and short sleeve jersey under a simple wind proof biking jacket and pants.
Would be great to mention that, yes Merino is great, but please buy from brands that don´t use Mulesing.
I like using a ski mask in cold weather because it’s easy to breath though and it keeps your face warm Regards Anna
What about a base layers? Craft makes a really good long and short sleeve cycling specific base layer shirts with what they call wind stopper. Not a sponsor...unfortunately.
I do find that a base layer that breathes but blocks wind, insert your favorite brand, combined with a normal summer jersey and arm warmers is good for 8 to 14 Celsius range at 30km/hr.
Pro tip wash before you wear as I had a black base layer that lost a lot of dye when I first hand washed it.
3 layers upper body
2 layers lower body
Rain covers on boots
with a poncho raincover on a comfort bike, should work in Vancouver?
Layer up like an onion is the key! :). Don't over-dress. Winter gear comes out when it's under 5'c for me. Above that it's summer clothing with an extra layer(gilet,arm and leg warmers) and base layer.
Feet inside polythene sandwhich bags, inside your shoes. Stay dry, and stop the wind chill. And thick wooly hiking socks.
Why do you guys never wear hi vis when you are riding, especially in bad weather?
2 words: heated gloves. I could not ride in the winter without them, they are the best.
What's the recommendation when there's 6 inches of snow and it's 10 degrees Fahrenheit. I'd like to see a "real" winter cycling video regarding that.
Jesper Svensson (Sweden) has some of that on his channel.He uses those lobster mittens. I thought about using skiing gloves but it may not be sufficient (in skiing you typically use hands and arms in motion more than in cycling).
I wear merino all the time, but it performs poorly in the wet. Heavy and slow drying. Also polyester responds much better to be wrung dry by hand if very wet.
You kids are so cute giving tips for riding in your pretend "winter". Lots of laughs.
Dark, icy and sub-zero (fah., -18 coldest yet). White or reflective jackets- not black no matter how slimming it is. No one cares how you look, that only at the gym. Studded tires when needed no matter how crappy they feel - that cast (plaster in the u k) is going to feel worse. For the cold I refer you to schrek"layers". Tank base, long sleeve base, thermal mid weight jersey or jacket and white or reflective shell on top. Any good all purpose athletic tights under your bibs will do, wind-pants over those for the really cold days. Any good thinsulite gloves will work and a skiers powder mitt over those on the coldest days for keeping the chill out. For the feet - winter riding boots, period. My favorites 45nth japanthers. Size up for merino wool socks. I commute year round in western mass (on the route Si and J-pow rode, by the covered bridge) and there really isn't any weather that cannot be overcome. Just ride!
Consider those inexpensive handwarmers and toewarmers packets. Wear a double.layer of gloves.
Been having difficulty keeping my feet & hands warm during the coldest winter rides. On the feet, I've tried overshoes, two pair of socks, thick insulated socks, wool socks and disposable toe warmers (which work okay but I'd like to move away from them if possible). As for gloves, have tried latex under winter gloves, glove liners and again, disposable hand warmers. What's your opinion regarding electric gloves and socks? Looking for a permanent solution. Maybe I just need to peddle faster :)
Those look like pretty neat riding clothes. I was wondering how they would function in my neck of the woods. I rode this morning in 18 degree F temperatures with a 20 mph wind coming out of the NW. I did 22 miles in this weather. What range of temperatures with winds from 10-20 mph would the riding clothes in this video be good for?