When thinking about riding your bike in winter weather, the first thoughts might be, "It's too cold," or "Isn't it dangerous?" But winter bike riding can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience! With the right preparation, you’ll feel confident, warm, and safe while biking through frosty mornings and snowy streets.
This blog post was originally written by Lori, one of our brand ambassadors in Chicago, and was updated on 15th January 2025.
Cycling in winter is not just doable – it’s fun! The crisp air wakes you up, the exercise warms you up, and the quieter roads offer a peaceful ride. Plus, biking is great for your health, reduces your carbon footprint, and saves you money. Your friends might call you adventurous (or a bit wild), but you'll love the freedom of riding year-round.
Biking is healthier, greener and saves you money. Hopefully, I’ll give you some suggestions to make it safer and easier for you to want to start winter biking.
Dressing For Winter Cycling Success!
Layering is the name of the game. The goal is to stay warm without overheating, so choose fabrics that wick moisture away from your body.
Layer Up
- Base Layer: Opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics (e.g. Dryline). Avoid cotton, as it traps moisture and makes you cold.
- Insulation Layer: A vest or lightweight fleece adds warmth without bulk. Down or synthetic jackets work great for really cold days.
- Outer Shell: Your jacket should block wind and repel rain or snow. Look for bright, high-visibility colors with reflective strips for safety.
The rule of thumb is to be slightly chilly if you are standing outside when you first go out so that when you get moving your body will warm up. If you start out too warm, you will easily overheat and then be really cold when you stop. It will take practice to get the layers right for you. Everyone handles the cold a little different.
Stay Warm - Accessories Are Key
You lose substantial body heat through your head, feet, and hands and you need all three of those working well to be able to make it home safely.
Head: Wear a balaclava, neck gaiter, or thermal headband under your helmet. For extreme cold, ski goggles are an excellent addition to protect your face.
Hands: Winter biking gloves are essential. Lobster-style gloves or handlebar mittens (like Bar Mitts) provide extra warmth. Bring a second pair in case the first gets damp.
Feet: Wool socks paired with insulated shoe covers keep your toes toasty. For added warmth, consider heated insoles or toe warmers.
Keep Your Bike Winter Ready
Lighting: With shorter daylight hours, high-quality bike lights are crucial. Equip your bike with a bright, flashing white front light and a red rear light. Our Rechargeable Bike Lights 2-Pack are a great option!
Tires: Lower your tire pressure for better grip on icy or snowy roads. Consider switching to winter tires with extra tread or studded tires for icy conditions.
Maintenance: After rides, wipe down your bike’s chain and apply a winter-specific lubricant to protect against salt and moisture. Avoid WD-40, which isn’t designed for bike use.
Stay Hydrated and Fueled
Even in cold weather, staying hydrated is essential. Insulated water bottles, like those from Hydro Flask, prevent your drink from freezing. Carry snacks like trail mix or energy gels in your jacket pocket to keep them from freezing.
Featured bag: Willis Stem Bag
More Top Tips
- Plan Your Route: Stick to roads and bike paths that are well-plowed. Many cities prioritize clearing bike lanes in winter, so check local conditions.
- Carry Essentials: Bring extra gloves, hand warmers, and a multitool for on-the-go adjustments.
- Protect Your Gear: Keep your phone, wallet, and snacks dry with a weatherproof bike bag like the Domino Handlebar Bag or the Bedford Backpack Pannier. Bonus, our Visi-Hemp print features reflective stitching for extra visibility (and coolness!).
Most important is to stay safe and have fun
Winter biking builds confidence, keeps you active, and gives you a new appreciation for the season. With proper preparation, you’ll stay comfortable and safe while enjoying the ride.
So bundle up, grab your gear, and pedal into winter with a smile – because the ride is always worth it!
About Lori
I am honored to be a Po Campo Brand Ambassador. I live in Chicago, try to live a healthy lifestyle and have been riding my bike all year around for almost 25 years. My typical commute to/from the health club several days a week averages 6 miles each way and my once a week commute to the Shedd Aquarium is 7.5 miles each way. I am the owner of All About Fun Entertainment, which is a kid’s entertainment company. My specialty is balloon artistry. I’ve been in business for myself since 2003 and absolutely love what I do. I have been a volunteer scuba diver at the Shedd Aquarium for 26 years and have close to 12,000 volunteer hours. That’s my once a week escape from the real world.
Other Blog Posts You May Like
My Top 6 Items for Winter Biking
