Winter Cycling Guide: How to Ride Safely and Comfortably in Cold Weather
By Chris
When the temps drop and roads get slick, a lot of cyclists call it quits until spring. But if you’re like me, the idea of staying off the bike for months just isn’t an option. The good news? With the right gear and mindset, winter riding is totally doable—and surprisingly rewarding.
❄️ Dress Smart, Not Bulky
Winter cycling isn’t about piling on the thickest coat you own. It’s about layering strategically.
I always start with a merino wool base layer like the BALEAF Thermal Base Layer, which keeps sweat off my skin without overheating. Over that, a mid-weight fleece or insulating layer (something like the INBIKE Thermal Cycling Jacket) helps trap heat where I need it most. Then I throw on a windproof shell like the ARSUXEO Winter Cycling Jacket that blocks icy wind and light rain or snow.
For the hands, nothing beats the OZERO Windproof Thermal Gloves — I’ve tried several and these hit the balance between dexterity and warmth.
Add in wool socks like the Time May Tell Wool Socks, a Tough Headwear Balaclava under your helmet, and some Qualidyne Thermal Bib Tights, and you’re ready to roll.
🛠️ Winter-Proofing Your Bike
Cold, wet conditions and road salt can destroy your drivetrain fast if your bike isn’t prepped.
For starters, switch to a wet chain lube like Finish Line Wet Bike Lubricant — it clings to the chain and resists washout. If your area gets snow and ice, consider installing studded tires like the Schwalbe Marathon Winter Plus Tires; they’ve saved me more times than I can count on icy back roads.
Also, don’t underestimate the power of a good set of fenders. I ride with SKS Bluemels Fenders in the winter — they keep the road grime off my back and out of my drivetrain.
🌘 Stay Bright, Stay Safe
With daylight hours shorter and visibility lower, lighting is one of the most important upgrades for winter.
I use a USB-rechargeable front light like the Ascher Ultra Bright Bike Light Set — super bright and easy to recharge. I also toss a few reflective accessories on my frame and clothing (something like the Byllstore Reflective Tape Strips) just to make sure I’m seen by cars and snow plows.
Pro tip: winter jackets in high-vis colors or with reflective piping—like the Proviz Reflect360 Jacket—pull double duty for warmth and visibility.
🧊 Know Your Limits
There’s a fine line between badass and frozen. If there’s black ice, or wind chills dip dangerously low (below 10°F), I’ll opt for the trainer or skip the ride. Listening to your body and reading the weather is just as important as gearing up.
That said, lowering tire pressure a few PSI can help with traction on snowy surfaces, and bar mitts like the ROCKBROS Handlebar Mitts make longer rides actually enjoyable.
And don’t forget hydration. I use an insulated CamelBak Podium bottle — otherwise your water will freeze halfway through the ride.
🚴♂️ Final Thoughts
Riding in the winter takes a little more planning, but it pays off in fresh air, quiet roads, and a sense of resilience. My favorite rides are sometimes the snow-covered ones — bundled up, breath visible, tires crunching under frost. You don’t need the most expensive setup, just smart choices and reliable gear.
If you’re looking to build your own winter-ready setup, I’ve linked some of the products I use and trust throughout this article. Ride safe, and I’ll see you out there — snow or shine.
📌 Pin this post to your Winter Cycling or Cold Weather Fitness board!
🔗 Follow @CyclePedal on Pinterest for more cycling guides, gear picks, and seasonal tips.