How to Dress for a Winter Bike Ride
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Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to stop bike riding! I’ve rounded up my favorite winter riding gear, from base layers to gloves and shoes - I’ve got you covered. I’ve done my best to include a variety of sizes and price points too - after all, everyone deserves to be warm!
Base Layers
Your first layer of clothing is absolutely critical. Base layers should be close fitting and ideally moisture-wicking, so your sweat doesn’t pool and make you colder.
Budget Pick
Lightweight knit with a lot of stretch. Lightly brushed on both sides which gives a soft cozy feel that is smooth against the body. Available in up to size XXL with ample stretch, the XL fits me (and I usually wear a 1x.)
Lightweight with lots of stretch, these leggings work great under riding tights or pants. Available in up to XXL.
Luxury Pick
Ultra-soft merino wool and available in regular and plus sizes (up to 3XL). These also come in a ton of fun colors!
Ethically sourced, super soft. I find myself wearing these all the time - even when I’m not riding. Available in regular and plus sizes, up to 3XL.
Middle Layers - Insulation
Depending on how cold it is, you’re going to want an insulating layer on top of your base layer, but below your outer layer. I love to wear cozy sweatshirts, cute flannels, or on especially cold rides, a specially designed chest warmer.
Outdoor Research Feedback Flannel Shirt
With a timeless look and the performance of a technical layer, the women's Outdoor Research Feedback Flannel is sure to become a cold-weather favorite, no matter what's on your weekend itinerary. - available up to 4x
Warm enough to wear alone, or as a layer, the PEARL iZUMi Women’s AmFib jacket is my go-to insulating layer. With three-layer fleece-backed AmFIB softshell fabric that's both windproof and water resistant. It also has a relaxed fit - available in sizes up to 2x.
The Warmfront is a chest warmer.
It is a thermal, one-sided bib / base layer to insulate your core from the cold wind.
We designed it with a velcro collar that lets you put it on and take it off quickly.
outer layers
Depending on where you live and if you’ll be riding in the rain, your outer layers should protect you from the elements - that means waterproof, windproof, or both.
Lightweight but still super warm, the ThermoBall Eco Puff jacket comes up to a 3X. I wear a 2x and love this jacket!
Wind and water resistant with a zip-able back pocket, the Machines for Freedom All Weather jacket is a great option. Available in sizes XX-Small through 3XL.
Gloves, socks, shoes & more
Now that you’re dressed, you can’t forget about your fingers, toes and head! Keeping your extremities warm and cozy is crucial to enjoying your time outside.
This highly insulated glove is my go-to glove for those super cold rides. It’s optimized for handlebar comfort and confident bicycle control, with enough sensitivity to hit every shift.
The main body fabric provides wind protection with easy articulation and an Ax Suede Laredo synthetic leather palm makes the glove as grippy as it is durable.
The AmFIB-specific 3D shaped gel pad provides bar comfort without causing unnecessary bulk. Despite its generous insulation, it is still touch-screen compatible.
This glove is perfect for mid-to-chilly days. It’s breathable but water and wind-resistant. Super comfy for both long rides and jaunts around the neighborhood.
The problem with so many cycling caps is that they are too bulky to fit under most helmets. This one reduces that bulk by using the same 18.5-micron Merino/polyester plated construction found in our base layers, so that it will fit under a helmet and wick moisture away as it regulates temperature. A flexible, durable insert in the bill ensures it will survive machine washing.
Classic super-soft merino wool, these socks easily transfer from a hike to the bike and everywhere in between.
Reach for this shoe cover on those cold days when you’re not taking no for an answer. Wind and water repellent, these shoe covers have a velcro closure at the back, making them super easy to get on and off. They also work well with both flat shoes and clip-in shoes.
