Clothes For Winter Riding

Mountain biking in cold weather has always been a challenge. The problem is that you'll start out cold then warm up and break a sweat, making yourself wet. Then, when you travel downhill, the combination of wet skin and windchill will be quite chilling.

Below, you'll find a list of the cold weather clothing that will make winter riding less of a bone chilling experience.

Booties

In cold temperatures, your feet are the most vulnerable part of your anatomy. Pressure from pedaling will tend to cut off the circulation to your toes, which can put you at a risk of frostbite. In cold conditions, neoprene booties are a must have. They will zip over your shoes and even have a pattern in the sole where you can cut out a piece for cleats.

Gloves

There are several manufacturers that make "lobster gloves", a hybrid glove that separates your index finger and thumb from the rest of your hand. These gloves are warmer than regular gloves, and the distinct index finger will allow you to operate your shifting and brake levers.

In case your hands get cold, you should carry a pair of lightweight glove liners will you as well. If you have to stop to take care of a problem, the liners will protect your hands from the cold.

Glasses

Glasses that wraparound and provide maximum protection from the wind are best to wear in the winter. You can protect yourself from debris, as well as the cold.

Socks

You should wear heavy socks although not to heavy. A sock that is overly heavy will make your shoes tight, cut off circulation, even make your feet cold. You should try lightweight socks, as they will keep your feet warm without bulk. If you need an extra layer, try silk ski socks as they are very warm and also extra lightweight.

Underwear

Polypropylene is the best material here, as it is lightweight and best for colder temperatures.

Wind protection

Moving air is the biggest cause for losing body heat. By having good wind protection you'll be able to vent perspiration while also protecting yourself from windchill. You should choose pants and a jacket based on durability, breathing, and price as these types of clothing can get very experience.

Helmet and liners

Your head is very important, as you lose 50% of your body heat through your head. A helmet is designed to keep you cool in the summer, not warm in the winter. A fleece liner inside your helmet will keep your head and ears warm during winter riding.

Things To Take With You

When you decide to go mountain biking on a long days ride, there are several things that you should take with you. Below, you'll find the essentials that you should have with you.

1. Back pack - a camelback or mule is a good idea here.
2. Waterproof - the type that packs down very small is the best to have.
3. Water - you need at least 2 liters for a long ride.
4. Food - sandwiches and energy bars are the best to have with you to eat.
5. Pump - take a good one with you, as the small mini pumps are a waste of time and money.
6. Tire levers if you need them.
7. Two small inner tubes.
8. A piece of medium emery paper about 3 inches long and an inch wide.
9. A cut up tube of Crest for pinch punctures or to use as a tire boot.
10. A carpet needle.
11. A card of linen thread to repair torn tires.
12. A good chain splitter
13. At least two black pins. You should tape these to the inside lid of your puncture repair kit.
14. A set of allen wrenches. The penknife style is the best to get.
15. A small screwdriver.
16. A first aid kit that includes an elastic bandage.
17. A Spokey spoke key.
18. A felt tip pen that will show on inner tubes.
19. Some lunch and phone money.

If you take the above with you, you should have no problems with long mountain bike rides. Everything on the above list will serve a purpose, all you have to do is give them a chance. If you've ever been mountain biking and ran into problems in the past, you should know first hand just how important the proper supplies can actually be.

Can't find what you are looking for? Why not try searching mountain bikes information below:



Mongoose Tech 4 Men's Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike (26-Inch Wheels)Mongoose Tech 4 Men's Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike (26-Inch Wheels)

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