After 25 years of my own learning, I agree with all of this. The one extra I find essential is an under-the-helmet warm hat that covers all of my ears, especially the lobes.
As an extra hack, I found I can wear a balaclava but just lower it around the mouth. What this does is allows the neck section to fully cover my neck. Normal neck warmers slip down! It's like an effective neck warmer and head warmer over the ears. Can always cover the mouth area too if gets colder. And I got it from ali express and it works great. Can get them in different thicknesses for different temps.
This is true, but I still sometimes do it anyway. You just have to account for the fact you will be ditching layers, sometimes I prefer that over starting cold. Bring layers that are easy to remove and have a place to store them after.
An often very unknown base layer is mesh. The last couple years I've been wearing mesh base shirts from Brynje. Both wool and synthetic. Wonderfully warm and feels even drier than a merino shirt when you're sweating. and they work great in the spring or fall. I'll wear one up to 50-60F, works great at temperature moderation. And again with the staying dry, after a hard climb, don't have the cold clammy shirt feeling at all.
I just got one this season and it's been amazing. I've lived in the Pacific Northwest for over 10 years so I feel pretty stupid for not having one earlier.
Bar mitts! I'm dealing with Winnipeg winters of -20/-35C and for some reason avoided getting bar mitts for a few years.. Once I got them I felt foolish for not having them sooner. The wind never gets to your fingers and that makes so much difference.
Bar Mitts/Pogies are also great for drizzly weather. No "waterproof" gloves actually stay so for more than about 3 rides, and they breath terribly for anything beyond a very short ride. With Bar Mitts you can run summer weight gloves down to about freezing. You can also more easily bring extra dry gloves if sweat becomes an issue than if using thick bulky gloves.
quick suggestion: mesh base layer first rather than merino. While merino does insulate when it gets wet, it's still wet. A mesh base layer moves that moisture away from the body and provides pockets of air everywhere there's an open spot. Think double pane windows for the body... If you have knee warmers, try putting them on before your tights. You only get one pair of knees. Knickers under (no pad!) tights does the same job and you can wear the tights for several days in a row before having to wash the tights. Which brings up no pad tights vs tights with pads. You can mix and match knickers (shorts and knee warmers) and tights if the tights don't have pads. Couse that means having different weights of knickers and tights to get you through different temperature ranges thru the winter. Since doing things this way means you can wear 30 year old tights to this day with knickers that are new, saving $ in the long run
Oh my god... I finally realized what Dustin's rhetorical style reminds me of... MR ROGERS. But like, a caffeinated hipster Mr Rogers. This is a good thing btw, we should all be more like Mr Rogers.
As a bloke that works in sales and listens/tries to read people for a living.. I would just like to say your rapport and word skills to the camera are viewer inducing and hold my attention . Chapeau to you and your channel
ride year round in Coastal Maine , down to 0F, here are my super-finds: Walz ear/neck flap merino wool cap, Rapha merino wool neck/face snood (wool lets you breathe regularly), Baselayer-Smartwool IntraKnit cycling base layer tank top (gotta let the pits breath or sweat-waterfall occurs), Rapha Brevet Goretex infinium jersey, Rapha Classic winter shell with chest vents,, Rapha cargo fleece winter bibs, Gore winter lobster-gloves (lobster really helps fingers from going numb), Smartwool cycling socks, Fiziks winter booties & Assos toe-warmers, tinfoil inside my shoes.. I can easily ride 3 hrs, still relatively aero.
Bar mitts. I bought some for my hybrid bike and liked them so much I put a set on my road bike. It's nice being able to just wear a light pair of gloves and still have waterproof and wind proof hands.
@@PaulJulienVAUTHIER my only concern when I first got them was that I wouldn't be able to get into the drop bars but I've found I can still grab them a couple ways and the bar mitts actually seem to divert the wind away from my hands despite them not being in the mitts. Gives my hands a chance to dry off a little without getting cold. They're just a win all around imo.
Buffalo NY year-round rider here. The game changer for me was insulated boots/cleats. I have the 45North Wolvhammer boots. They look like they would be clunky and heavy, but they are surprisingly lightweight for what you get. Waterproof, Thinsulate warmth, Vibram sole, SPD cleats all mean I can stay out in the coldest weather for hours. Second are good gloves. I use the Pearl Izumi thinsulate lined gloves. When the temp drops below 25F/-4C, I'll carry silk liners, but I rarely use them. Third is a poly skull cap under the helmet. I have Pearl Izumi's version with the modest ear flaps. Even a little ear coverage does the trick. And if I want to go out in real subzero weather, I put a rain bonnet over my helmet...just like you would a shell jacket...for insulation. To avoid "lung burn" on crisp days under load, I use cheap bandanas over my nose and mouth; that heats the incoming air just enough to avoid damage.
Great advice. I find the meshed Byarn base layers work very well. Better than light merino. Stops the chill when restart. I also found 50/50 merino/synthetic mix not only performs better - but it's stronger and lasts longer too! I also tend to buy off season. Got my shimano winter shoes that way used on ebay, bargain.
11 year MN winter vet rider here (did -37 b4 windchill) and here are my inputs: 1. Talc/baby powder. Use mainly on your hands and feet but wherever to help delay the onset of moisture. 2. Perfect pacing. There is no such thing but it is worth considering and working on your pacing to stay under the sweat threshold. If youre out for HI then prep for that but if you're out for something more casual, keep the technique but dont sweat it. 3. Big ass seat bag....the kind that can fit a big piece of top gear so you can start warm, peel and, if it's a group ride with stops you can throw it back on. 4. Layers: single, double, triple and even quadruple (-37...had a hard time breathing! 😂). Generally speaking single or double pant layer and double to triple top layer. Single to double layer sock.
I enjoy your content so much. Between your quirky, ADHD, talk to yourself mannerisms that match mine to your factual no nonsense approach to your creativity. Always enjoy your content.
I live in a tropical country where there are only two kinds of weather. Hell on earth or the sky is attempting to drown you. Still watching this video because I enjoy your content.
First time viewer to your channel and respectfully you're the quirky Woody Allen of cycling. Love the thought & humor that went into this. Acknowledging your salient tips, I still dress incorrectly for the winter months here in The Great State of Texas. I either don't wear enough and freeze my tuchus off or dress too warmly which produces sweat & results in freezing my tuchus off for the latter half of the ride. I'm right there with you investing in quality gear and am embarrassed at the amount of Rapha & MAAP clothing I have at my disposal. Favorite bit of kit is the insulated windblock base layer from Rapha although I don't feel it wicks away sweat effectively. I've almost resigned to failing at dressing for winter cycling and far prefer the 110 degree summers where at least I know what to wear. Enjoyed your video, thanks for posting and the effort imparted.
I've been riding my entire life 12 months a year, great Tips. Some I've already figured out but some I'm going to have to try. Defiantly going to invest in a set of winter cycling shoes next. Favorite piece of gear that I thought I didn't need but got on sale would be my Fox 3L water coat with the hood that will fit over a helmet as well as back/pit vents.
A lot of good points. I like a light rag wool glove with an over mitt. To warm take off the over mitt and your ready to go. Going to buy a pair of long bib shorts this winter. Never had any and also going to try an squeeze in a pair of winter boots too. I but a pannier on my bike and carry extra stuff . Feel better being ready for this Vermont weather. Thanks for the video and take care, Al
Insulated pogies on my drop bar was super surprising for me. In Montana, we have really cold winters. I can ride down to about 25F with no gloves if I have my pogies. My hands were still warm in -30F with mitts combined with pogies.
Yes Dustin, good blog,only thing I can add is for hands, petroleum jelly, rub a small amount the hands,then the"Not A Mechanic "" latex or tpu gloves on beneath your chosen winter gloves,,,then you're golden, good to go,can get sweaty,but believe me😂 Man of colour,!! Winter is not the norm for my heritage,but strange as it seems,I ride more on the winter, must be less distractions maybe Good job again Dustin
fave piece of winter kit i love and i didn't know i needed is a really nice, insulated columbia gaiter with a drawstring -- the drawstring really helps with fogged glasses!!!
Shoe covers. Where I ride, it's pretty dry so I don't need the winter shoes. This is great advice overall and I wish I found your channel years ago. Stay awesome!
I need those knit gloves! Q: Have you done a video on winter bike maintenance? I hate washing all the salt and luck after every ride and I'm always looking for more effective ways to keep my bike in good shape.
Best gear I never thought I needed are running winter gloves that have a "running nose" function! Sounds disgusting but it's super practical for me as my nose is leaking like crazy at 5 degrees and below. The brand is energetics and it's basically the hole thumb area that can be used to wipe your nose. 😁✌️
I've seen snowboarding gloves that have those. Sure it's gross but the drips have to go somewhere 😂 now I have an old handkerchief on a retractable ID badge reel on my handlebars.
Gillet or vest was my gear I just added. That shell over my specialized winter jersey/ winter long sleeve you talked about solved my issues. Whether in 20s or 40s works.
I commute everyday from Beaverton to South Waterfront. Ended up getting the Giro Blaze shoes after watching your video. No matter what the conditions are, my feet are warm, dry, and happy.
Ok, I've watched some vids and this one is good... aka I agree with the most ;), therefore subscribed. Regarding winter gear if anyone thinks it's too expensive consider thrift/ second hand stores. When it's really cold and 1 pair of bibs/ cycling pants just won't do consider a pair of running tights on top. This way you're still (kinda) aero, or as advised here get baggy/ mtb pants if you don't care for aero. Or rain shell/pants if it's gonna rain, but expect to sweat in those. Gloves, double up if really cold, on climbs take the top gloves off.
I will add one more suggestion for baselayers, mesh baselayers like the ones still made by Brynje in Norway. They are an old style of clothing worn by fishermen. But they hold more air than a regular baselayer but dry much faster. I've used Merino for ages but I splurged a bit on one of these as an experiment this year and they're surprisingly warmer than regular baselayers. Mine is synthetic but maybe I will get a merino one later.
Overshoes! As much of a pain as they can be to don and doff, the comfort of having dry, warm tootsies makes up for. Started with (and still recommend) Velotoze, but have since upgraded to Spatzwear.
Thanks for the video! Here are some of my recommendations: ION makes great softshell (with innerfleece) bike pants. MTB style but as I don‘t like tights, it‘s fine. Mons Royale makes great merino bike stuff. If it‘s really cold I use my snow hiking boots (I ride flats oder combi-pedal). VAUDE makes a windproof jacket with insulation.
Castelli Gabba short sleeve jersey-- thought I would use only in wet weather, but paired with a good baselayer or arm warmers is good from 40 - 55 degrees F clear or misty.
Cold and wet ride but run hot (Commute/Explore)? Poncho + gaiters/rain pants > waterproof shell. Keeps you dry, hands protected (drapes over handlebars) for a minor inconvenience in wind.
Completely agree with this layering system. I’ll add that a shell with arm pit vents is crucial. I also bike with an old pair of ski pants with leg vents (not very aero but that’s not my priority).
I have a shortsleeve and longsleeve synthetic baselayer from craft that have been doing the job for 20+ winters now. And those gloves! so recognizable! After I found my pair I bought 3 more. So I have a few drawers with 3 pairs of gloves for multiple situations.
For those folks who debate bar mitts, and ride in sub zero temps (below 32f/0c) they are wonderful. I can wear thin summer full finger gloves down to -7c and will be completely cozy. If colder i'll only step up to a neoprene light ski glove. Keeps you dexterous for braking and shifting. The only drawback is when you start to get too shredy for conditions you're likely following the bike to the ground. (location reference Calgary, AB)
Agreed on bringing two pairs of gloves! When it's near or below freezing I like to use a ski helmet instead of a bike helmet for the extra head and ear coverage/warmth.
I’ve read most of louis L’lamour books. Many are about winter survival. The most important thing to survive below zero temps is to never sweat. Back in the day if you sweat even a little a layer of ice will form under your clothes.
The rain pants have been a surprising boon to my pre-dawn sub freezing commutes. I got them specifically for rain (s/o GORE) but they work so well against the wind & I can easily slide them over my work pants. Probably my biggest surprise win.
My go to is ShowersPass rain shell - I live in SF so fog can be rain in slo-mo and drizzle is common - my other go to's are merino wool base layers and socks... LOVE the socks
Great video! 😎A merino base layer, a windproof winter jersey & winter bib leggings...and an awesome (decent priced) Galibier Izoard Insulated Gilet have made gravel riding this winter excellent...Galibier Deep Winter gloves on my Christmas presents request list🤞🤞
Thoughts from a MN rider: 1. Wool, wool, wool. If you think your wool is wearing out too fast, its either cheaper wool or you aren't washing it right. (Turn it inside out, hand wash it 3 out of 4 times with wool safe soap, and every 1 out of 4 times, when machine washing it, put it in a pillowcase and wash on gentle with wool safe soap. Flat rack dry.) The 70% Smartwool base layers aren't bad, though I prefer the 100% Varusteleka stuff. 2. Endura makes spray trousers and jackets - thin shells with vent zippers made for English weather - wet and (relatively) warm. But over base/insulation layers they are great to stay dry with. And if you get hot, zip down the vents and get that hot air out. 3. Keeping hands warm - this is so person specific there is not a "magic" answer. For me, my fingers are cold till my core get up to temperature, about 20 min. Thin silk or wool under gloves are a must, with a waterproof glove over that. 4. I really recommend some kind of bag with you in the winter with spares. Backpack, bike mounted, whatever. Makes it easy to take spares.
@@CookingMike No, but I would like to. For a lot of the Duckworth items, I already have some version of them (usually Varusteleka) and I don't want to buy just to buy. I will say I'm getting Cima Coppi bike specific items now. Not inexpensive by any means, but wow, the quality is amazing.
I tend to run warmer than most people and I’ve had good luck with insulated mechanics style work gloves for riding. When it’s really cold I pair them with a lightweight liner.
Up until recently, I would wear my Bern helmet when temps went below 48 degrees or so. But I recently tried the Hikenture skull cap helmet liners with lasses holes on Amazon for supercheap, like $15. Extended the range I can wear my road helmet by 10 degress at least. I still wear the goober Bern when it hits the high thirties and it definately works better when wind & temps force the use of goggles, but bang for the buck, the cheap-o helmet liners are great.
A piece of gear I didn’t think I needed, but use a lot, is a pair of Gore rain shorts. Yes, SHORTS! I stay warm, but don’t overheat like in rain pants. I also wear Lake 304 boots with Vaude long gaiters (to keep the boots cleaner).
Went out on a 3hr ride in 17°F last weekend. Merino base, LS jersey and a Pactimo shell/thermal jacket. Perfect layers. If it were colder, I would do a thicker merino base, maybe merino Jersey.
Waterproof shorts are my fav I didn't know I needed it gear. Keeps your ass dry when the trails are wet (snow/post rain) but lessons the chance of overheating.
Two hats for big climbs: one for climbing and the other for descending also arm sleeves. At the top of the climb, take in your accomplishments and the views while you putting a dry hat on, pulling up your extra sleeves and zipping up. Now, you are ready for a fast descent without chattering teeth.
Bar mitts and thinner gloves are a great solution. I bought 2 merino turtleneck sweaters on clearance at Target about 15 years ago. Full, double zipper. $11 each. Still in good shape. Wish I would’ve bought more.
Great vids and awesome information! Keep up the good work. Btw what is the fuchsia vest you wearing? It’s look warm and comfortable, I want one for myself Please tell me
I just wear a bunch of trail running and nordic skiing gear, but I also run hot enough I almost never need anything warmer than just shorts. Waterproof socks have been a game changer too.
My absolute fave piece of winter kit is a decades-old Salomon XC ski jacket. It's a softshell front and sleeved, with a thin, breathable back. It's warm, but vents great - stretchy, has a big back pocket, with a drop tail and long sleeves for no-gap performance. It;'s also wearing out so I am on the lookout for a replacement. Your Gore thermal jerseys look close - are they the same material front and rear?
Most solid. I'm taking these winter gear tips from Fargo's first citizen to the bank or, at least, the grain elevator. Buy nice or buy twice; and try not to lose fingers and toes in the winds and snows.
Bar mitts are a game changer. I break them out once it gets below 40°F, great paired with a lightweight pair of fleece gloves, or heavier winter gloves when it gets in to the twenties, even single digits.
I find that if I keep my hands and neck warm, I can get away with being under dressed by 10 degrees. And since extra gloves and a wool gator are the two easiest things to keep in my back pocket, these go with me on every shoulder season ride. And merino wool base layer for the win. Sometimes I'll rock a merino wool base layer and a jacket and skip the jersey all together. It's always fun trying different combinations and merino always helps tie the odd sized room together.
7Mesh has a couple amazing shells that pack into their own pockets that can be strapped to the bike as an emergency bit of kit if the temp drops, or just if you don't need it until you get further along in your ride. I wear Blivet cycling boots in the winter. I used to live in Montreal, and nothing worked better than these boots. Bonus: they're comfy enough that you can also use them for snowshoeing. Get lobster gloves for cold weather. For short rides (less than 90 minutes), they'll work, even at -30C. I also wear MTB shorts overtop of bibs as an easy way to keep my thighs and hips a little warmer. I use bibs, Sugoi pullup leg-warmers, and MTB shorts all the way down to about -12C. Always cover your ears as soon as it hits freezing. Switch to goggles below -15C. Have a neoprene mask to keep your face warm below -10C, but you'll probably remove it once you get going. Even at -20C, I tend to pull the mask off of my face as long as I'm not descending. And sometimes the best way to get warm is to get off the bike and walk/run for a while. Especially if your feet are cold.
Having bags on your bike in winter is a game changer. Having places to put extra gear that you may need, or have taken off, really ramps the enjoyment and lowers the stress.
Shorts with tights. +1 Thats my go to cold/dry combo. Im 6'. My hack is shopping the big girl section at Ross. You can score tights for 15 bucks or less. I ride flat pedals so shoes that stay dry ate tricky. OG sambas with scotch guard will do the trick for most Portland riding.
If it wasn't for the fact that i've been riding a bike for 40+years, i would have found this video very informative. However, an avenue i haven't yet been down is winter boots. Yes i'm very much aware of them, but i just haven't got round to trying a pair, mostly because i don,t ride enough winter time to defend the cost of buying a pair but i'll keep that in mind. You just confirmed my own home grown theories. IOW , you know what you're talking about, i can back you up. Have a nice weekend.
I cannot keep my feet warm. Tried various winter shoes and boots. Neoprene covers don't work as I initially start to sweat. I really need breathable, ultrawarm covers. Can't find those.
Try Spatz hot Sox with a Lake/Northwave winter boot and a Spatz overshoe and you will never have cold feet again. The beauty then is, when it gets a little warmer, ditch the over shoe. Warmer again, change to a thinner sock, and finally to summer shoes.
Head, ear & neck protection? I live in southern Europe where winter temps seldom go below 5C/40F. Neck gaiters and skull cap with ear covers are indispensable for me.
For the hands? Yeah... pogies. But not the big insulated ones that you usually see on Minnesota fatbikes. Just a basic shell. PogieLites from BikeIowa are AMAZING. Lightweight shell, but even riding around 20F I don't need but a lightweight long finger glove. And they're still good up to 40-50F or more. And need a break, they're light enough to either fold out of the way for awhile, or take them off and stash 'em, rolls up smaller than a jacket or pants. Oh, and use 'em in the rain too.
My best advice for winter training when its not too cold (between 10-3 degrees celcius) dont do coffee or cafe stops. When u cool down in your sweat. Getting back on the bike will be miserable. Do it at the end of the ride and you’re golden!
My biggest surprise was a 1mm thin wind proof cap for my head, I am bald and don't need anything else for my head at 3 °C. Wind proof everywhere makes a huge difference
I'm a "glove system" guy. Liners + light or mid weight + waterproof shell lobsters. Mix and match and change as the ride goes. Over mitts and a puffy jacket in a pack if you know you're stopping mid ride in below freezing temps
I switch sports to XC skiing in the winter and pretty much all of these tips carry over. I've basically never been out skiing in weather where a midweight softshell over a base layer isn't enough, and the softshell blocks wind and breathes Way better than a raincoat. If it's not seriously raining, that's my choice.
This is the direction I went, too -- a fleece-lined buff for the neck/lower face and a thermal one under the helmet is super comfy when the wind starts to bite
😏 If this video ruined your day, subscribing might finish the job: bit.ly/Subscribe_to_EBD
This is better than GCN
Agreed 100%
Agree
I only watch GCN Tech to keep up with new cycling technology.
Welcome to the club
Yes you are right sir.
After 25 years of my own learning, I agree with all of this.
The one extra I find essential is an under-the-helmet warm hat that covers all of my ears, especially the lobes.
I agree once my ears and fingers get cold the rest of my body does as well 😂😂❤❤
Try a helmet similar to the Lazer with an Aeroshell. I can ride all winter with just an ear warmer under there
Same with the hat!
As an extra hack, I found I can wear a balaclava but just lower it around the mouth. What this does is allows the neck section to fully cover my neck. Normal neck warmers slip down! It's like an effective neck warmer and head warmer over the ears. Can always cover the mouth area too if gets colder. And I got it from ali express and it works great. Can get them in different thicknesses for different temps.
Buff.
Good lesson learned from hiking is "Be bold, start cold". That way you aren't stopping 10 mins up the road to ditch a layer.
My mountaineering club uses that mantra for the basic class
Agreed 100%
If you aren't cold for the first 10ish min, you're overdressed
This is true, but I still sometimes do it anyway.
You just have to account for the fact you will be ditching layers, sometimes I prefer that over starting cold.
Bring layers that are easy to remove and have a place to store them after.
An often very unknown base layer is mesh. The last couple years I've been wearing mesh base shirts from Brynje. Both wool and synthetic. Wonderfully warm and feels even drier than a merino shirt when you're sweating. and they work great in the spring or fall. I'll wear one up to 50-60F, works great at temperature moderation. And again with the staying dry, after a hard climb, don't have the cold clammy shirt feeling at all.
Exactly - Brynje is excellent.
The boot and glove dryer is one of those "how didnt we get this sooner" purchases. So worth it. The whole family gets use out of it in rainy season
I just got one this season and it's been amazing. I've lived in the Pacific Northwest for over 10 years so I feel pretty stupid for not having one earlier.
Bar mitts! I'm dealing with Winnipeg winters of -20/-35C and for some reason avoided getting bar mitts for a few years.. Once I got them I felt foolish for not having them sooner. The wind never gets to your fingers and that makes so much difference.
Bar Mitts/Pogies are also great for drizzly weather. No "waterproof" gloves actually stay so for more than about 3 rides, and they breath terribly for anything beyond a very short ride. With Bar Mitts you can run summer weight gloves down to about freezing. You can also more easily bring extra dry gloves if sweat becomes an issue than if using thick bulky gloves.
quick suggestion: mesh base layer first rather than merino. While merino does insulate when it gets wet, it's still wet. A mesh base layer moves that moisture away from the body and provides pockets of air everywhere there's an open spot. Think double pane windows for the body...
If you have knee warmers, try putting them on before your tights. You only get one pair of knees. Knickers under (no pad!) tights does the same job and you can wear the tights for several days in a row before having to wash the tights.
Which brings up no pad tights vs tights with pads. You can mix and match knickers (shorts and knee warmers) and tights if the tights don't have pads. Couse that means having different weights of knickers and tights to get you through different temperature ranges thru the winter. Since doing things this way means you can wear 30 year old tights to this day with knickers that are new, saving $ in the long run
Still my most favourite online cycling buddy, always coming with the truth and best, straightforward advice and help. Like the older bro I never had.
🤜❤️🤛
Oh my god... I finally realized what Dustin's rhetorical style reminds me of... MR ROGERS. But like, a caffeinated hipster Mr Rogers. This is a good thing btw, we should all be more like Mr Rogers.
Mudflap in the Front is hands down one of the best Things for wet Winter weather.
Please try one !
As a bloke that works in sales and listens/tries to read people for a living.. I would just like to say your rapport and word skills to the camera are viewer inducing and hold my attention . Chapeau to you and your channel
Pogie lite's from Bike Iowa have absolutely changed my life. Flat bar and drop bar compatible, also easily convertible when you heat up too much.
This x10. I ride in cold snowy conditions and only wear medium thick gloves all winter. Sooooo good.
Always get a chuckle about winter kit /rain gear. Winter is snow😂
I wish we had snow, instead its just 35 and raining all the time.
ride year round in Coastal Maine , down to 0F, here are my super-finds: Walz ear/neck flap merino wool cap, Rapha merino wool neck/face snood (wool lets you breathe regularly), Baselayer-Smartwool IntraKnit cycling base layer tank top (gotta let the pits breath or sweat-waterfall occurs), Rapha Brevet Goretex infinium jersey, Rapha Classic winter shell with chest vents,, Rapha cargo fleece winter bibs, Gore winter lobster-gloves (lobster really helps fingers from going numb), Smartwool cycling socks, Fiziks winter booties & Assos toe-warmers, tinfoil inside my shoes.. I can easily ride 3 hrs, still relatively aero.
Bar mitts. I bought some for my hybrid bike and liked them so much I put a set on my road bike. It's nice being able to just wear a light pair of gloves and still have waterproof and wind proof hands.
I second this, Bar mitts were game changer for me
@@PaulJulienVAUTHIER my only concern when I first got them was that I wouldn't be able to get into the drop bars but I've found I can still grab them a couple ways and the bar mitts actually seem to divert the wind away from my hands despite them not being in the mitts. Gives my hands a chance to dry off a little without getting cold. They're just a win all around imo.
Buffalo NY year-round rider here. The game changer for me was insulated boots/cleats. I have the 45North Wolvhammer boots. They look like they would be clunky and heavy, but they are surprisingly lightweight for what you get. Waterproof, Thinsulate warmth, Vibram sole, SPD cleats all mean I can stay out in the coldest weather for hours. Second are good gloves. I use the Pearl Izumi thinsulate lined gloves. When the temp drops below 25F/-4C, I'll carry silk liners, but I rarely use them. Third is a poly skull cap under the helmet. I have Pearl Izumi's version with the modest ear flaps. Even a little ear coverage does the trick. And if I want to go out in real subzero weather, I put a rain bonnet over my helmet...just like you would a shell jacket...for insulation. To avoid "lung burn" on crisp days under load, I use cheap bandanas over my nose and mouth; that heats the incoming air just enough to avoid damage.
Great advice. I find the meshed Byarn base layers work very well. Better than light merino. Stops the chill when restart. I also found 50/50 merino/synthetic mix not only performs better - but it's stronger and lasts longer too! I also tend to buy off season. Got my shimano winter shoes that way used on ebay, bargain.
Bar mitts for sure. -30 degrees plus (minus?) some windchill and I was comfortable in summer gloves. Lots of good tidbits in here!
11 year MN winter vet rider here (did -37 b4 windchill) and here are my inputs:
1. Talc/baby powder. Use mainly on your hands and feet but wherever to help delay the onset of moisture.
2. Perfect pacing. There is no such thing but it is worth considering and working on your pacing to stay under the sweat threshold. If youre out for HI then prep for that but if you're out for something more casual, keep the technique but dont sweat it.
3. Big ass seat bag....the kind that can fit a big piece of top gear so you can start warm, peel and, if it's a group ride with stops you can throw it back on.
4. Layers: single, double, triple and even quadruple (-37...had a hard time breathing! 😂). Generally speaking single or double pant layer and double to triple top layer. Single to double layer sock.
I've been using a nordic skiing jacket as my midlayer. Warm, wicks well and has vents.
Great video Amigo!
I enjoy your content so much. Between your quirky, ADHD, talk to yourself mannerisms that match mine to your factual no nonsense approach to your creativity. Always enjoy your content.
Just got recommended your video in my feed and really enjoying it. Also you're giving off strong Alton Brown vibes
I live in a tropical country where there are only two kinds of weather. Hell on earth or the sky is attempting to drown you. Still watching this video because I enjoy your content.
First time viewer to your channel and respectfully you're the quirky Woody Allen of cycling. Love the thought & humor that went into this. Acknowledging your salient tips, I still dress incorrectly for the winter months here in The Great State of Texas. I either don't wear enough and freeze my tuchus off or dress too warmly which produces sweat & results in freezing my tuchus off for the latter half of the ride. I'm right there with you investing in quality gear and am embarrassed at the amount of Rapha & MAAP clothing I have at my disposal. Favorite bit of kit is the insulated windblock base layer from Rapha although I don't feel it wicks away sweat effectively. I've almost resigned to failing at dressing for winter cycling and far prefer the 110 degree summers where at least I know what to wear. Enjoyed your video, thanks for posting and the effort imparted.
Great stuff Dustin, I ride fixed all winter and I’ve been struggling with my layers and your tips were super insightful!
Reallyyyy loved the detail shots on this one, so much fun. Great tips too.
I've been riding my entire life 12 months a year, great Tips. Some I've already figured out but some I'm going to have to try. Defiantly going to invest in a set of winter cycling shoes next. Favorite piece of gear that I thought I didn't need but got on sale would be my Fox 3L water coat with the hood that will fit over a helmet as well as back/pit vents.
Come to Florida, the weather is great this time of year.
A lot of good points. I like a light rag wool glove with an over mitt. To warm take off the over mitt and your ready to go. Going to buy a pair of long bib shorts this winter. Never had any and also going to try an squeeze in a pair of winter boots too. I but a pannier on my bike and carry extra stuff . Feel better being ready for this Vermont weather. Thanks for the video and take care, Al
Best winter gear that I love that I thought I didn’t need? Pogies. Freaking amazing in the winter. Throw a hand warmer in there and it’s cozy AF.
Insulated pogies on my drop bar was super surprising for me. In Montana, we have really cold winters. I can ride down to about 25F with no gloves if I have my pogies. My hands were still warm in -30F with mitts combined with pogies.
Yes Dustin, good blog,only thing I can add is for hands, petroleum jelly, rub a small amount the hands,then the"Not A Mechanic "" latex or tpu gloves on beneath your chosen winter gloves,,,then you're golden, good to go,can get sweaty,but believe me😂
Man of colour,!! Winter is not the norm for my heritage,but strange as it seems,I ride more on the winter, must be less distractions maybe
Good job again Dustin
fave piece of winter kit i love and i didn't know i needed is a really nice, insulated columbia gaiter with a drawstring -- the drawstring really helps with fogged glasses!!!
Shoe covers. Where I ride, it's pretty dry so I don't need the winter shoes. This is great advice overall and I wish I found your channel years ago. Stay awesome!
I need those knit gloves! Q: Have you done a video on winter bike maintenance? I hate washing all the salt and luck after every ride and I'm always looking for more effective ways to keep my bike in good shape.
Best gear I never thought I needed are running winter gloves that have a "running nose" function! Sounds disgusting but it's super practical for me as my nose is leaking like crazy at 5 degrees and below. The brand is energetics and it's basically the hole thumb area that can be used to wipe your nose. 😁✌️
I have a soft layer on my fox summer gloves that's made for wiping glasses. During winter it also deals with nose fluids lol
I've seen snowboarding gloves that have those. Sure it's gross but the drips have to go somewhere 😂 now I have an old handkerchief on a retractable ID badge reel on my handlebars.
Gillet or vest was my gear I just added. That shell over my specialized winter jersey/ winter long sleeve you talked about solved my issues. Whether in 20s or 40s works.
I commute everyday from Beaverton to South Waterfront. Ended up getting the Giro Blaze shoes after watching your video. No matter what the conditions are, my feet are warm, dry, and happy.
Ok, I've watched some vids and this one is good... aka I agree with the most ;), therefore subscribed.
Regarding winter gear if anyone thinks it's too expensive consider thrift/ second hand stores.
When it's really cold and 1 pair of bibs/ cycling pants just won't do consider a pair of running tights on top.
This way you're still (kinda) aero, or as advised here get baggy/ mtb pants if you don't care for aero.
Or rain shell/pants if it's gonna rain, but expect to sweat in those.
Gloves, double up if really cold, on climbs take the top gloves off.
I will add one more suggestion for baselayers, mesh baselayers like the ones still made by Brynje in Norway. They are an old style of clothing worn by fishermen. But they hold more air than a regular baselayer but dry much faster. I've used Merino for ages but I splurged a bit on one of these as an experiment this year and they're surprisingly warmer than regular baselayers. Mine is synthetic but maybe I will get a merino one later.
Overshoes! As much of a pain as they can be to don and doff, the comfort of having dry, warm tootsies makes up for. Started with (and still recommend) Velotoze, but have since upgraded to Spatzwear.
Thanks for the video! Here are some of my recommendations:
ION makes great softshell (with innerfleece) bike pants. MTB style but as I don‘t like tights, it‘s fine.
Mons Royale makes great merino bike stuff.
If it‘s really cold I use my snow hiking boots (I ride flats oder combi-pedal).
VAUDE makes a windproof jacket with insulation.
Castelli Gabba short sleeve jersey-- thought I would use only in wet weather, but paired with a good baselayer or arm warmers is good from 40 - 55 degrees F clear or misty.
Most informative DK.
Cold and wet ride but run hot (Commute/Explore)? Poncho + gaiters/rain pants > waterproof shell. Keeps you dry, hands protected (drapes over handlebars) for a minor inconvenience in wind.
Totally agree, but had to learn it the hard way myself… Will go for the winter shoes next.
Completely agree with this layering system. I’ll add that a shell with arm pit vents is crucial. I also bike with an old pair of ski pants with leg vents (not very aero but that’s not my priority).
I have a shortsleeve and longsleeve synthetic baselayer from craft that have been doing the job for 20+ winters now. And those gloves! so recognizable! After I found my pair I bought 3 more. So I have a few drawers with 3 pairs of gloves for multiple situations.
For those folks who debate bar mitts, and ride in sub zero temps (below 32f/0c) they are wonderful. I can wear thin summer full finger gloves down to -7c and will be completely cozy. If colder i'll only step up to a neoprene light ski glove. Keeps you dexterous for braking and shifting. The only drawback is when you start to get too shredy for conditions you're likely following the bike to the ground. (location reference Calgary, AB)
great Advice, thank you so very much.I wish it was winter in australia too hot to ride
Agreed on bringing two pairs of gloves! When it's near or below freezing I like to use a ski helmet instead of a bike helmet for the extra head and ear coverage/warmth.
I’ve read most of louis L’lamour books. Many are about winter survival. The most important thing to survive below zero temps is to never sweat. Back in the day if you sweat even a little a layer of ice will form under your clothes.
The rain pants have been a surprising boon to my pre-dawn sub freezing commutes. I got them specifically for rain (s/o GORE) but they work so well against the wind & I can easily slide them over my work pants. Probably my biggest surprise win.
My go to is ShowersPass rain shell - I live in SF so fog can be rain in slo-mo and drizzle is common - my other go to's are merino wool base layers and socks... LOVE the socks
Great video! 😎A merino base layer, a windproof winter jersey & winter bib leggings...and an awesome (decent priced) Galibier Izoard Insulated Gilet have made gravel riding this winter excellent...Galibier Deep Winter gloves on my Christmas presents request list🤞🤞
Thoughts from a MN rider:
1. Wool, wool, wool. If you think your wool is wearing out too fast, its either cheaper wool or you aren't washing it right. (Turn it inside out, hand wash it 3 out of 4 times with wool safe soap, and every 1 out of 4 times, when machine washing it, put it in a pillowcase and wash on gentle with wool safe soap. Flat rack dry.) The 70% Smartwool base layers aren't bad, though I prefer the 100% Varusteleka stuff.
2. Endura makes spray trousers and jackets - thin shells with vent zippers made for English weather - wet and (relatively) warm. But over base/insulation layers they are great to stay dry with. And if you get hot, zip down the vents and get that hot air out.
3. Keeping hands warm - this is so person specific there is not a "magic" answer. For me, my fingers are cold till my core get up to temperature, about 20 min. Thin silk or wool under gloves are a must, with a waterproof glove over that.
4. I really recommend some kind of bag with you in the winter with spares. Backpack, bike mounted, whatever. Makes it easy to take spares.
Have you tried duckworh? Montana based wool . Been using their Polaris Henley as my base layer , commet hoodie mid and Wyoming traders wool vest.
@@CookingMike No, but I would like to. For a lot of the Duckworth items, I already have some version of them (usually Varusteleka) and I don't want to buy just to buy.
I will say I'm getting Cima Coppi bike specific items now. Not inexpensive by any means, but wow, the quality is amazing.
I tend to run warmer than most people and I’ve had good luck with insulated mechanics style work gloves for riding. When it’s really cold I pair them with a lightweight liner.
Thanks for the advice Dustin. I love your lid. Where did you get it? Thanks 🙏
Up until recently, I would wear my Bern helmet when temps went below 48 degrees or so. But I recently tried the Hikenture skull cap helmet liners with lasses holes on Amazon for supercheap, like $15. Extended the range I can wear my road helmet by 10 degress at least. I still wear the goober Bern when it hits the high thirties and it definately works better when wind & temps force the use of goggles, but bang for the buck, the cheap-o helmet liners are great.
A piece of gear I didn’t think I needed, but use a lot, is a pair of Gore rain shorts. Yes, SHORTS! I stay warm, but don’t overheat like in rain pants. I also wear Lake 304 boots with Vaude long gaiters (to keep the boots cleaner).
Went out on a 3hr ride in 17°F last weekend. Merino base, LS jersey and a Pactimo shell/thermal jacket. Perfect layers. If it were colder, I would do a thicker merino base, maybe merino Jersey.
I wear long johns and a insulated shirt with sweat pants I normally sweat alooot and ride with a CamelBak pack ❤❤of course gloves
Neoprene surfing socks are amazing for those really wet days.
I agree, proper waterproof winter riding shoes, with a waterproof sock. Absolute must have!
You're absolutely right, the best winter gear can be found at the thrift stores.
the old shake dry jacket was and still is an amazing bit of kit
THE standard in rain jackets.
Waterproof shorts are my fav I didn't know I needed it gear. Keeps your ass dry when the trails are wet (snow/post rain) but lessons the chance of overheating.
"recently I swindled a bunch of brands..." This is why I'm a big fan! MOAR swindlin'!
Two hats for big climbs:
one for climbing and the other for descending also arm sleeves. At the top of the climb, take in your accomplishments and the views while you putting a dry hat on, pulling up your extra sleeves and zipping up. Now, you are ready for a fast descent without chattering teeth.
Bar mitts and thinner gloves are a great solution.
I bought 2 merino turtleneck sweaters on clearance at Target about 15 years ago. Full, double zipper. $11 each. Still in good shape. Wish I would’ve bought more.
Those turtle necks are the deal of the century!
Great vids and awesome information! Keep up the good work. Btw what is the fuchsia vest you wearing? It’s look warm and comfortable, I want one for myself
Please tell me
I just wear a bunch of trail running and nordic skiing gear, but I also run hot enough I almost never need anything warmer than just shorts. Waterproof socks have been a game changer too.
My absolute fave piece of winter kit is a decades-old Salomon XC ski jacket. It's a softshell front and sleeved, with a thin, breathable back. It's warm, but vents great - stretchy, has a big back pocket, with a drop tail and long sleeves for no-gap performance. It;'s also wearing out so I am on the lookout for a replacement. Your Gore thermal jerseys look close - are they the same material front and rear?
Most solid. I'm taking these winter gear tips from Fargo's first citizen to the bank or, at least, the grain elevator. Buy nice or buy twice; and try not to lose fingers and toes in the winds and snows.
Merino wool balaclava and water proof gloves are my biggest aha moments this winter
Wear a thin thermal under a thicker thermal, thin liner gloves under thicker gloves. A windproof is good as well, lined leather driving gloves.
Bar mitts are a game changer. I break them out once it gets below 40°F, great paired with a lightweight pair of fleece gloves, or heavier winter gloves when it gets in to the twenties, even single digits.
I find that if I keep my hands and neck warm, I can get away with being under dressed by 10 degrees.
And since extra gloves and a wool gator are the two easiest things to keep in my back pocket, these go with me on every shoulder season ride.
And merino wool base layer for the win. Sometimes I'll rock a merino wool base layer and a jacket and skip the jersey all together.
It's always fun trying different combinations and merino always helps tie the odd sized room together.
7Mesh has a couple amazing shells that pack into their own pockets that can be strapped to the bike as an emergency bit of kit if the temp drops, or just if you don't need it until you get further along in your ride.
I wear Blivet cycling boots in the winter. I used to live in Montreal, and nothing worked better than these boots. Bonus: they're comfy enough that you can also use them for snowshoeing.
Get lobster gloves for cold weather. For short rides (less than 90 minutes), they'll work, even at -30C.
I also wear MTB shorts overtop of bibs as an easy way to keep my thighs and hips a little warmer. I use bibs, Sugoi pullup leg-warmers, and MTB shorts all the way down to about -12C.
Always cover your ears as soon as it hits freezing. Switch to goggles below -15C. Have a neoprene mask to keep your face warm below -10C, but you'll probably remove it once you get going. Even at -20C, I tend to pull the mask off of my face as long as I'm not descending.
And sometimes the best way to get warm is to get off the bike and walk/run for a while. Especially if your feet are cold.
Having bags on your bike in winter is a game changer. Having places to put extra gear that you may need, or have taken off, really ramps the enjoyment and lowers the stress.
Shorts with tights. +1 Thats my go to cold/dry combo. Im 6'. My hack is shopping the big girl section at Ross. You can score tights for 15 bucks or less. I ride flat pedals so shoes that stay dry ate tricky. OG sambas with scotch guard will do the trick for most Portland riding.
Excellent video! Now I’m interested in those waterproof knitted gloves. Is there a specific brand you wear, or is it the Amazon special?
Set fazers to stun 🎉
Defo winter shoes, but also best gloves possible a buff and skull caps and peaked cap...also embrocation on knees.
Tip: At thrift store if you buy a wool sweater or vest, buy it 3 sizes too big. Then you can dry it in the drier.
Great reminders. Who makes the fluffy purple vest you're wearing?
If it wasn't for the fact that i've been riding a bike for 40+years, i would have found this video very informative. However, an avenue i haven't yet been down is winter boots. Yes i'm very much aware of them, but i just haven't got round to trying a pair, mostly because i don,t ride enough winter time to defend the cost of buying a pair but i'll keep that in mind. You just confirmed my own home grown theories. IOW , you know what you're talking about, i can back you up. Have a nice weekend.
Wintershoes are the absolute gamechanger!
I cannot keep my feet warm. Tried various winter shoes and boots. Neoprene covers don't work as I initially start to sweat. I really need breathable, ultrawarm covers. Can't find those.
Put handwarmers on top of you shoes.then thin foil on them.the flanders way
Try Spatz hot Sox with a Lake/Northwave winter boot and a Spatz overshoe and you will never have cold feet again. The beauty then is, when it gets a little warmer, ditch the over shoe. Warmer again, change to a thinner sock, and finally to summer shoes.
Head, ear & neck protection? I live in southern Europe where winter temps seldom go below 5C/40F. Neck gaiters and skull cap with ear covers are indispensable for me.
Winter boots essential
The best winter gear I have acquired is overbar mits for my commuter bicycle which I ride everyday no matter the weather
Well said
It took me 8 years to finally buy a vest that was $20 on sale. Its amazing and I already want a higher quality one.
For the hands? Yeah... pogies. But not the big insulated ones that you usually see on Minnesota fatbikes. Just a basic shell. PogieLites from BikeIowa are AMAZING. Lightweight shell, but even riding around 20F I don't need but a lightweight long finger glove. And they're still good up to 40-50F or more. And need a break, they're light enough to either fold out of the way for awhile, or take them off and stash 'em, rolls up smaller than a jacket or pants. Oh, and use 'em in the rain too.
That’s it I’m trying a set of these!
My best advice for winter training when its not too cold (between 10-3 degrees celcius) dont do coffee or cafe stops. When u cool down in your sweat. Getting back on the bike will be miserable. Do it at the end of the ride and you’re golden!
My biggest surprise was a 1mm thin wind proof cap for my head, I am bald and don't need anything else for my head at 3 °C. Wind proof everywhere makes a huge difference
Goodwill merino wool church sweater checking in!
I'm a "glove system" guy. Liners + light or mid weight + waterproof shell lobsters. Mix and match and change as the ride goes. Over mitts and a puffy jacket in a pack if you know you're stopping mid ride in below freezing temps
I switch sports to XC skiing in the winter and pretty much all of these tips carry over. I've basically never been out skiing in weather where a midweight softshell over a base layer isn't enough, and the softshell blocks wind and breathes Way better than a raincoat. If it's not seriously raining, that's my choice.
A buff or balaclava really help. Winter shoes (have three different levels) are game changers. Cold wind is the biggest villain here in Wyoming
This is the direction I went, too -- a fleece-lined buff for the neck/lower face and a thermal one under the helmet is super comfy when the wind starts to bite