My Hands & Feet FROZE Until I Did This...

[@gcn]

What tips and tricks do you have for staying cosy on the bike? 🧤🧦

[@ExplosiveNotes]

"Flat pedals and Wellies, they fit like that ✋🤛" - Steve Jones on currently latest Dirt Shed Show.

[@alexanderh2715]

Paying attention to my watts. I do a lot of riding but I plan my routes to be less stressful. I don't want to sweat a ton uphill and then freeze when going down.

[@jean-pierrebarre4056]

As for the shoes: Put them on or near a source of heat (in my case a baseboard heater) about 30 minutes before your ride, cover them with your overshoes and off you go with toasty warm cycling shoes that will stay that way for quite a long time depending on the severity of the weather.

[@stevenhowes530]

Goggles and a balaclava. Also, layers... Many layers.

[@michaelo6870]

Lobster gloves are the best way to go!

[@ffskierdune6226]

What do Brits know about winter riding? Wool base layers, wool socks, and wool glove liners. Even when wet wool can provide warmth. The soles of the feet have about 250,000 sweat glands. Use antiperspirant on the soles to keep feet dry. I learned that hack 30+ years ago skiing in Canada. Another hack is getting fully dressed and waiting about 1 minute before going outside in the cold. Just enough that you warm up but are not sweating.

[@biketrybe7071]

And don't forget to EAT. It doesn't matter how protected your house is, if there is no fuel in the furnace you'll still get cold.

[@jasongirvan6729]

I live in Canada and as you know we get wicked winters. Well due to the fact that Ive been working in the outdoor trades for over 25 years I’ve picked up a few tricks. My favourite is for your hands. Using a pair of disposable gloves as a vapour barrier first under your gloves allows for self heat retention whilst also keeping your insulated gloves dry from your sweat allowing them to their job efficiently. Yes you will build sweat in the disposable gloves but you’ll stay warm as the sweat tempers to your body heat and therefore tempers the insulating gloves to your own body heat too. As a result you can use thinner gloves longer than their intended thermal value and dexterity from being able to keep the layers thinner. As a carpenter this kept me warm with dexterity.

[@thechadfords]

This! Works really well to have the disposable gloves under main gloves

[@Teeve01]

I’m glad you posted this. I’ve actually considered doing this for my feet. Might be a weird fit but it’s actually worth a try. My feet sweat regardless of temp. Thanks for this!

[@derf9465]

Done this for years on the motorcycle in the winter. Thin disposable gloves, cotton inners and my winter glove over the top.

[@thechadfords]

@@Teeve01 you can get actual waterproof socks that have membrane built in, or the old plastic bag between a thin and thick pair of socks!

[@fjp3305]

And what about rubber kitchen gloves instead of disposable gloves?

[@davidl6558]

Utility biker here, ~15km/9mi commute. More important than gloves for me are handlebar mitts. I use them below 10C and they're great for blocking out any windchill and wet. It lets me then wear thinner gloves/fingerless gloves or none at all to have a better feel on the gears and brakes

[@devzero.create]

I made a pair of handlebar mitts and they were an absolute game changer for winter commutes, it honestly took them from being miserable to downright enjoyable again. Superior to gloves.

[@charlesdufour9276]

The nice thing about riding with flat peddles is that you have options for which shoes you wear and don't have to worry about your socks being so bulky that they cut off circulation.

[@davidpotter6564]

Not many options for overshoes though. I'm currently going with Five Ten EPS shoes and Merino hiking socks (because they're cheap!) seems to be working so far but not tried it out in sub-zero temps yet.

[@rikkerthilbrant4388]

Agreed! Moreover: being able to move your feet around and flexing them keeps circulation going.

[@benfolds17]

Love my flat pedals 👍

[@correcthoarsebatterystaple]

Flat pedals with spiky trail running shoes in icey conditions

[@thomaskline8571]

Completely agree! I spent loads on shoe covers and experiments for my clipless pedals but nothing keeps you warmer than a good (and inexpensive) pair of winter boots and flat pedals. Might look odd to the racing crowd but if you can ride longer and more comfortable in the cold, it’s a big win

[@jeffreylee5770]

For warm hands while cycling, the only thing that really worked against very cold air was bar mitts, which are like huge oven mitts that fit over the entire handlebar ends, and then I could wear a medium thickness glove inside. I tried thicker gloves and even heated gloves with batteries, but the bar mitts were the only things that really worked. They are very bulky and not aerodynamic, but on a long commute, they really work. I've been able to ride in sub-freezing temperatures with bar mitts because my hands were protected from the cold wind.

[@SwampCreature123]

Same for me. Tried lots of different gloves, but none of them kept my fingers from freezing sooner or later. Bar mitts are a total game changer, and make winter riding much more enjoyable.

[@gearknobz]

Same here. Hoping for more options out there with a choice of sleeker mitts

[@ralphcole674]

Yep, pogies are the bomb. Without gloves I'm good to 30F. With gloves I'm good to 15F or lower.

[@simonbailey2151]

An absolute Game changer.

[@benfolds17]

Totally agree 💯

[@thomaskarl6197]

Multiple thin layers work well for me. Two pairs of thin wool socks and a glove liner with an over-glove are my usual options. This combination allows me to adjust as the temperature changes. It's not just being cold, I also don't want to overheat.

[@ScrapKing73]

I’d would use “Bar Mitts” before I would try heated gloves, two pairs of gloves, gloves inserts, or any of the other gloves-related suggestions in this video, to be honest. Bar Mitts are amazing effectively.

[@DonKnight-qi4tu]

Love that British humor. Winter tips from a tropical isle. Function over fashion, I wear nylon hiking boots cut above the ankle. They are light, dry, warm and when I'm done my ride, I can walk in them. Sweatpants tucked into my socks. A t shirt, sweat shirt, nylon shell, gloves and a toque. Good for -30C. If it gets really cold, I take the bus.

[@knarf_on_a_bike]

Year-round Canadian cyclocommuter here. Layering is big. The thin liner-gloves you mentioned work great. Cold days I use lobster claw mitts. You can also get thin liner-socks that are surprisingly effective. Super expensive, but totally worth the money are winter cycling shoes. Get a size or two larger to fit thick socks and you're dry and comfy. My coldest commute home was -40C. I broke out the snowmobile mitts and rode my fixed gear track bike (no gears or brakes to manipulate).

[@jackbmth7783]

A pair of genuine silk socks as your first sock layer always works for me. As for gloves, the motorcycle trick works wonders. Simply put on a pair of latex gloves underneath your gloves. You will have to deal with sweaty hands though.

[@Robert-tj3qq]

I use a woodstove while riding my bicycle, works great !!! 🔥

[@RonaldBeirouti]

Pogies for your hands in canadian winters. There are some for drop bars, some for straight bars. Ski helmet, ski goggles and a full face mask for the head and your set for -30C weather as long as your gears still shift 🙂

[@Frostbiker]

I came here to say the same. Ski clothing is great because it has vents to cool off as needed. A merino wool neck warmer is also great.

[@number6photo]

Your advice for staying warm works pretty well if the temps are in that 0-5°C (32-40°F) range (typical UK winter, I suppose), but when it's down below -5°C (25°F) or colder (typical midwest-USA winter), gloves and those shoe covers don't cut it anymore (for me). Mittens are far more effective than gloves, and/or lobster claw style mitten-glove hybrids can keep your fingers much warmer than any insulated glove. Handlebar pogies (like Bar Mits) are the game-changer though, as they create a pocket of still air that surrounds your hands, and your body heat fills that cavity with warm air. With pogies, I can usually get away with rather light gloves that allow for easy shifting/braking. Keeping feet warm is still the biggest challenge for me, and is the limiting factor for how long I can stay out on my winter rides. The shoe covers you mentioned are fine for the milder winter days, but are essentially ineffective at the really cold temperatures. I have found there is no substitute for proper insulated thermal winter boots (cycling boots, or regular boots if using flat pedals). Even with those boots, I need to wear thick wool-blend socks (I buy the boot a size larger than normal to make sure I'm not squeezing my feet tightly). Even with all that, I still need heat packets on my toes if I'm going to be out for more than 45 minutes.

[@NickSheppardsheppsta]

A lot of riders have their cleats too far forward. While a direct placement under the ball of the foot might be the optimal position for some people, it also places significant strain on the metatarslas leading to less blood flow to the toes, as such they are more likely to get colder and more numb. Since moving my cleats back I've found that my toes don't get as cold or numb and my average riding power output has increased slightly because I am engaging more of my glutes and a little less in my quads and calves.

[@tomasztomaszewski9275]

That's true. Even in spring/autumn when it is still quite warm my toes freeze. The problem is caused by some pressure from the pedals. After moving it slightly backwards it is better. Interestingly, in the left foot it is a little bit different than in the right one. If someone has a problem with cold feet they should pay attention to the positioning of the cleats.

[@tommik5596]

My choice for winter cycling is to install flat pedals on the bike and wear knee-high rubber boots as footwear. This way, you avoid any fuss and keep your feet dry in slush and rain.

[@2011hwalker]

youll also go about 9 mph and look like a muppet.

[@ryanlambright3797]

I personally love my bar mitts for my hands but I'm still trying different things for my feet. Thanks for all the great tips! one thing I've found as well is to have the bike ready so when I walk out the door I don't overheat before I start riding and then get chilled.

[@jefferycampbell2243]

The hardest part of cool/cold weather riding is getting enough warmth without over doing it. Over the years, I kept a log of what layers worked well for given conditions and summarized it into a little "what to wear vs temperature" table. I ride nearly every day and I'm rarely over or under dressed.

[@DavidoffdelaFleve]

Can you share that? That would be lovely.

[@andrewnorris5415]

Mine has wind in!

[@jack002tuber]

A good plan. I also find getting enough and not too much warmth is a constant battle. Then you find it and a week goes by and you forgot what you did.

[@missee]

I need to keep a log, too, so I don't have to re-learn it every winter!

[@ThePeter123a]

I have had good experiences with winter cycling shoes plus additional covers for the toes. There are also winter cycling socks, a thick winter jacket with 1-2 long-sleeved undershirts and short undershirts. When I was still under 40 years old, I drove in hilly terrain at -5°C.

[@ramoverde4133]

Sealskinz socks! Relatively cheap, compared to other bicycle products, light and functional. Protects your feet from wind and weather. 👍

[@tedreynolds33]

One thing I did delivering morning newspapers in Canada (-20C) and at PBP in 2007 - plastic bags in the shoes.

[@chrisc1140]

I always ride flats, so I got a pair of waterproof shoes - Vessis, the only youtube ad-based purchase I've ever made. After nearly a year they seem pretty good honestly. For gloves, I always prioritized wind-proofness first. Your hands are the furthest bit of you fowards in most riding positions, and so take the brunt of the wind. Gloves of mine that were perfectly warm walking around were nearly useless when on the bike. But even pretty thin windproof gloves - combined with a warm core - kept them at least bearable even in nasty headwinds. And then if things get too cold (below freezing, for me) I have either double up on thin gloves (a pair of ski gloves came with a cotton liner pair that works wonders) or switch them out entirely for the ski gloves themselves.

[@Silidons91]

Bar Mitts are the best thing I've ever purchased! Once you get over how they look, they're ABSOLUTELY amazing. I have ridden in near freezing temperatures WITHOUT gloves and my hands are WARM. I use them all the time. I don't have a care in the world how they look. For feet, I use thick wool socks and then use thick covers over my shoes. Best covers that I've found, are Endura ones.

[@stanleyuk1]

Winter Cycling socks from Lidl and overshoes ( dhb) does the job for me :)

[@vestaalvesta786]

I commute through the winter in temps up to -25 C, and my magic words are - ski clothing. I KNOW! Its not the most efficient, aerodynamics wise, but with ski gloves, ski pants, a waterproof THICK ski jacket, a ski hat under my helmet, in addition to proper winter tyres (Schwlabe Winter Marathon for this season) which lower speeds anyway, allow me to stay on my two wheels the whole season. Its a win in my opinion.

[@muratmustafa4532]

Bought my first pair of cycling gloves this week from Decathlon and used them once. They make a difference. It is on sale now too! They felt like neoprene. Watching the video, thought probably they are!

[@nickeveritt4391]

I tried everything with my feet, winter boots, thin socks, thick socks, overshoes, tinfoil etc. Nothing worked until I bought battery operated socks intended for skiers. Expensive but a game changer. Bizarrely I never suffer with my hands, thin gloves and I am fine.

[@ScrapKing73]

I’ve never heard them called “overshoes” here in Canada. They’re formally called “shoe covers” here, and informally called “booties”, in my experience.

[@carlosnogueira7320]

Watching a GCN video on cold feet while I’m struggling with a 39oC heat wave in São Paulo/Brazil

[@gregmuon]

Gloves. Jacket. Shoe covers. Fenders/mudguards. You guys covered it pretty well.

[@qwertyazerty2137]

Once I froze my hands and feet so bad that when I put them under warm water the pain of expanding blood and vessles wad so bad that I started to hyperventilate and got nauseous. And to be clear, there is no such thing as waterproof overshoes. No matter what waterproof outer layer they are sewn from, they will always soak in from the bottom.

[@francesstager997]

I am a WIMP when it comes to riding outdoors in cold weather! I stick to the indoor trainer and GCN Training videos! Thanks for the tips though!

[@nsjohnston]

When I was commuting in Scotland the only thing that I found that kept my fingers warm, but still dexterous was a couple of pairs of thin gloves, liner, woolen, then some heavy duty marigolds. They tucked into the sleeves of my jacket so didn't look out of place. My hands got a bet sweaty inside, but they were never cold.I have since bought a pair of rogelli gloves that may have been up to the job, but I'm not sure..I don't ride in the conditions I used to.

[@jerilynluben1208]

We in the States use Pogies, or Bar Mitts. They are like oven mitts mounted on the handlebars that you slip your hands into. My hands are warm even on the coldest days. It takes a little getting used to, slipping your hands inside, but I found adjusting relatively easy. The only caution is that on windy days, the larger cross section tends to throw the bike around a bit.

[@clarklowe5632]

HotHands Toasti Toes is amazing. Keeps the toes warm just a little bit wasteful. For wet cold days I go with SealSkin Socks. Keep toes dry and cut any wind.

[@donball370]

A snood is great for keeping the core heat in; works wonders for then keeping hands and feet warmer too.

[@CreativeLivingProject]

Love that you’re talking winter riding…whilst riding is summer…the green leaves are a nice touch at this time of year though…🇨🇦

[@billkallas1762]

When I was doing real winter training (where your water bottles freeze) I bought a few pairs of inexpensive mountain bike shoes, in a larger than normal (for me) size. This way, I could wear multiple layers of socks inside, and not squeeze my feet. (even with thick neoprene socks)

[@oldbikebank]

Other hints: - earband/head band. Keep your forehead warm and ears comfortable (5C and lower) - Lobster mitts - much warmer than gloves (-3C and lower) - Balaclava plus hat and/or earband (-8C and lower) Feet remain the limiting factor for longer rides in my experience (-25C limit for a shortish commute)

[@bubblesezblonde]

1) Take off all clipped and clipless pedals and replace with high quality BMX pedals. 2) Wear a good quality hiking/outdoorsey waterproof boot for the feet. Toasty all winter. Layer-up on the legs and torso. A waterproof poncho is priceless. I like gloves used for winter sports that have pockets for oxidation packets. Or layering gloves and adding the packets can be effective.

[@treyquattro]

I suddenly have a desire to go out and buy a load of Castelli winter gear (for real!)

[@odiewan67]

In my university days, after getting out of the navy, I was a very poor student but I still raced. I lived in the SF bay area (Oakland) and it would get very cold and wet. If you were going to get any fitness you had to ride in the cold and wet. Not having much money, I had to get creative. I learned five tricks: * Move to a town/city where there is a indoor heated velodrome: Your track skills should improve significantly. Barring that: * Wool socks sprayed w/ 3M water proofing worn as booties: cheap wool socks from Army/Navy surplus store with a cut out for the cleat and heel. The water proofing made most of the water bead up on the outside of the sock * A clear plastic shower cap on the outside of my helmet: vapor barrier that trapped body heat inside my helmet Latex/nitril inspection gloves (as worn by EMTs) under my full fingered gloves: vapor barrier that trapped heat around my hands * A simple clear rain jacket w/ vents: I scored a few podium finishes in collegiate races because I wasn't fighting hypothermia

[@barberbetty8]

Wool sock with cut out for cleats over my shoe, then the waterproof bootie. Room for toes to wiggle and stay warm. I also use a fall weight glove with a wind/waterproof lobster claw overglove. So many good products out there, and hacks! Thanks for the overview! Neoprene might be worth a try.

[@cruachan1191]

So far I've been fine wearing Coolmax socks that are actually meant for hiking (which is what I bought them for!), plus they're wicking so help keep your feet dry, whether that's sweat in hot weather or water at this time of year. Can often get them in the middle aisle of the discount supermarkets in the UK as well.

[@danielmarx1151]

I use neoprene cycling gloves and am pretty happy with them. This year at the Glocknerkönig Event though, I found my hands frozen when descending, after it started raining during the climb. I could barely use the breaks.Luckily I remembered having a pair of medical gloves in my sattleback. It took like 5 minutes or so to get them over my hands, but having them under the neoprene gloves saved me.

[@fsharp_com]

I place some chemical toe warmers on the top of my wool socks, then overshoes. Lets me ride at around 0c and not have frozen toes.

[@Oldmtbdad]

One thing I do to help keep my feet warm is to wash them just before putting clean, dry socks on. Sweaty feet will get cold faster.

[@gavinm717gkm]

Balaclava instead of a cap is the key to life

[@tommyrq180]

Vitamin E increases blood flow to the extremities. Also, I use two different cycling shoe inserts, a thin one and a thick one. Use the thin one to allow thicker socks. The thick ones are for the summer and thin socks. Buy winter shoes for really really cold situations (usually for me, MTB winter races in the mountains). Always plug the air circulation holes in your cycling shoes in the winter. Gabba, or Gore-Tex Windstopper is the single most important cold weather cycling breakthrough of the last couple decades. Strategic use of Windstopper (don’t forget a balaclava made of it!) transformed winter riding from Michelin Man clothing to really thin, super effective garments that allowed comfortable, easy to wear cold weather gear. Finally, and there’s much more to discuss, the strategic use of petroleum jelly on exposed face parts (e.g., next to your eyes) keeps you from frostbite on some sensitive places. My two cents as a 50+ year, hard-core rider in the north country. 😅

[@MrGazingdown]

Chemical toe warmers (sticks to under your socks) and keeps toes warm for hours, great in those very cold longer rides. And great for in house/office too!

[@huebersonic]

As a women I always had cold feet when riding in winter - even in winter specific shoes. Since I use chemical toe warmers my feet are warm, I love it !

[@blaze1148]

Just going to try a pair today....tried last week but only peeled off one layer so they didn't work 😆

[@nagasako7]

I wear gloves here in Hawaii to block sun. And often temp inside gloves is cooler than road temps. 😅

[@TheSadcyclist]

Working outside a lot in winter, i wear vinyl disposable gloves 1 or 2 pairs and a pait of cycling nitts over thenm so still have dextrous use of fingers etc, avoid latex ones as you can become sensitised to latex and it may cause a rash or worse, also the fre gloves at fuel staions on the diesel pumps work in emergencies under a pair of gloves.

[@bikebudha01]

Get winter shoes. Size them up 1-2 sizes. Use thick wool socks. (Best to have the socks when you try the larger shoes on for fit). You want a 'lose' fit, i.e. 'not tight'. A loose fit will allow air to circulate around your feet, keep you warm. A tight fit will prevent air flow. This makes is harder to keep your feet warm, cuts off circulation, and tends to make your feet sweat, and sweat will 'go cold' on you. Also, "loose fit" is in millimeters. As in a few extra mm in all directions. - Wool tights. Wool is magic. Wool stays warm when wet and sweaty. - Wool top. Wool is magic. Wool stays warm when wet and sweaty. - Turtle Fur on your neck. Not sure if they still make Turtle Fur (have had mine for a long time, they last forever). But somethign to cover your neck. Ideally something that can be pulled up over your chin. (Or pulled down below your chin if you get to hot. - Chapstick. Warm lips are happy lips. - Helmet cover. Your helmet has been designed to maximize ventilation. That's a bad thing when it's cold. I recommend getting nice bright cover to make you that much more visible to traffic. - Gloves, the less fingers the better. Mittens usually wont' work, but getting 'lobster stye' gloves allows some of your fingers to have a 'finger buddy'. It's warmer. Also, windblock in the glove is great. - Have found wool ski socks to work wonders. Wool is magic.. (see above). But ski socks have 'double' padding on the front (to help cushion your shin against ski boots). For cycling, having the double thickness on the front of your shins really helps keep your lower legs warm. - Wool beanie. Wool is magic (see above)... - Layers on top. Start with your wool base layer, then add 1-2 more 'thin' layers as needed. The outermost layer should be windproof. The middle layer, if needed, should be a dense fleece type layer. - Finally, if your core is warm, your hands and feet will be warm. So get your core squared away, along with next and head (two places you lose the most heat), and you should be good...

[@leedouglas7080]

I put doggy bags on my feet first, then thin fine socks, another doggy bag over the socks then a thin overshoe to keep the shoes clean. Works a treat and you can still bend your ankle

[@MarkGovier]

Warm up before going outside to get your bike ready (nothing fancy for me, just a 1980’s “exercise bike”). I also use a balaclava to keep my head warm. Keeping your head warm is key. Seems to help prevent extremities getting cut off. Lessons learned whilst winter sailing.

[@andrewking1211]

I invested in electrically (rechargeable battery) heated socks and gloves for wintry rides in Canada! I wear my cycling shoes very loose as the socks are pretty bulky but they keep my extremeties nice and toasty even on the lowest setting! 👍

[@mstrasser]

Net/Net, look for quality cues like GoreTex and other markings - they work (foil cling film etc doesn't). Best gloves: (1) castelli espresso gt gloves (2) Burton snowboarding mittens (have leather and goretex outside) that keep your index finger and thumb stand alone, and then the three remaining grouped. For feet I used to use winter boots but for the last 2 seasons I've used summer shoes with either (1) Rapha winter overshoe (previous years they don't make them anymore which sucks since they work) or (2) Castelli Estremo Overshoe. All these have worked in -10 Celcius 100km+ Canadian windy rides.

[@tedallenwolff]

years ago Matt Stevens had a tip: he would wrap his toes in thin tinfoil before putting on his shoes. Watching this video reminded me of it, something I never tried. I plan to test it out on my next ride!

[@peglor]

The tinfoil will break into small pieces as it flexes around while you pedal, so expect to get no weather protection combined with having the job of removing loads of flecks of aluminium from your socks. A piece of a space blanket between 2 socks on each foot is a lot more effective. The metallic layer on this will also wear off after a few spins, so no heat reflection, but it will still keep the wet out.

[@MrCharb7]

I find heated socks are a game-changer! I ride down to single-digits and they keep my feet warm. But my biggest prob is water bottles freezing .So I have a bag with a hand warmer in it and switch out two bottles.

[@Viertelfranzose]

I personally make in the cold time everyday a really strong Ginger tea together with red Onions. I make for 2 liters brew on stove minimum 200 Gramm ginger and 200 Gramm of red onions. If it's colder....i pump up the Ginger some more. Greetings from Andreas in Alsace /France

[@fotmheki]

I use neoprene closed cells gloves (2mm thick) and oversized neoprene socks used as overshoes. Get my hands and/or feet wet isn't a problem as long as there are protection from wind

[@HabaneroTi]

I don't get not wearing gloves when riding, even in hot weather, for so many reasons. They don't just keep you warm when it's cold, and soak up sweat when it's hot (but also when it's cold), they also help reduce vibrations due to bad roads that can lead to temporary and even permanent numbness, are useful for wiping off sweat (and, yes, runny snot), and, in the event of an accident, help to absorb the blow of the fall and prevent nasty cuts and scrapes that are unpleasant at best and dangerous at worst. To me it's like riding without a helmet or with a filthy drivetrain or seriously underinflated tires. But for me, the solution to cold hands in cold weather is...indoor riding.

[@VyantQuijt]

I've tried a lot over the years. These days I prefer thin running gloves with a heat reflective 'mitten flap' for active rides, as thick gloves often get sweaty. Once the flap is tucked in its pocket it keeps the wrist warm, and the bloodflow does the rest. Cold arms usually lead to cold hands, as does a cold core, BUT, I've also learned that 'fighting the cold' is counterproductive. Embrace the suck is the mindset that keeps you going. Years ago I had cheap mittens that were like knitted socks. Somehow they perfectly balanced insulation and breathability. I haven't found the solution for very wet and cold weather just yet (in part because I'm frugal, and in only wet I just go bare hands) but I'm very interested in some waterproof shell mittens combined with toasty undergloves. On super rainy days I slather vaseline onto an old pair of shoes and hope the rainpants keep the water off my socks

[@emmabird9745]

My other half, a retired motorcyclist, swears by silk gloves as liners. I have "blue petered" a pair of wind shields over the brake levered. They allowed me to keep riding through last winter in spite of my hyper sensitivity to cold. I suppose if you're well heeled enough (no pun intended) then you could buy a second larger pair of shoes so you could manage more pairs of socks!

[@StuartCalder-pd9bo]

As recommended in the video I wear a thin pair followed by a thicker pair of gloves. This 'double glazing' works very well for me 90% of the time. In very cold weather, before setting off, I place my hands in a basin of very hot water for 3 minutes and then apply the two pairs of gloves. This 'storage heater' principle works a treat to overcome the coldest of days.

[@gnxk1854]

Bike sleeves for the handlebars with fleece inside: you can use thin gloves underneath if really cold, and you can always operate breaks effectively. To me works better than gloves.

[@overcookit1433]

Simply ride 5-10 minutes before on your stationery bike until your are feeling warm. Mine is in the basement, so it is already quite cold around me. As I tend to have cold hands, I swing my arms while pedaling on the stationery bike until the hands are warm. By doing so, I fell comfortable and warm on my bike from the first meter on - provided I chose the right combination of sometimes several layers. When it is really cold, I fell like the michelin manikin, and then it is quite hard riding with the tt-setup of my second bike, but fortunately, it isn't that cold anymore in winter like it used to be 10-15 years earlier. As already mentioned below, it is crutial to put on as much as necessary not to freeze on the bike, but also not to sweat. I also use additional sleeves and a balaclava, so in case I took on to much, I can regulate the body temperature by putting that stuff in my jersey pockets.

[@quijadriss7650]

I use a pair of bread bags over my socks inside my trainers. Cheap, and works in the - 10F I get in the states on my ride in to work.

[@chiefsilverback]

I’ve found waterproof socks to be great option for gravel riding and MTB.

[@Atis602]

My favorite solution for hands is a thin pair of five finger gloves covered by a relatively thin pain of lobster gloves. Lobster gloves allow for better control than mittens. As conditions change a switch from both to one or the other as needed.

[@FishOn1]

I’ve found thin set of gloves that have a wind flap that covers all four fingers do a great job of allowing me to regulate the amount of warmth/cooling I need. Without the flap my hand stay cool but the flap is great at blocking the wind and allowing fingers to help keep each other warm.

[@DavidMulligan]

UK winters are so cute. Any advice for keeping hands warm while riding in -20c weather and still being able to shift or brake?

[@Frostbiker]

Bar mitts, without a doubt. You can wear glove liners or medium gloves underneath if you still have cold hands. Toronto rarely gets colder than -20C, so I can't comment on what's needed for a real Canadian winter.

[@alexwilsonpottery3733]

Yeah cute at -30 in the Lake District. Now, for my sins, in Iowa. Long-sleeved wool undershirt, wool t-shirt, topped off with something to block the wind with a full-length zip. Wool tights or preferably bibs with wool longs or shorts underneath. If you’re flush with cash then have a pair of winter shoes you can fit some wool socks in without being too tight, top off with wind/waterproof booties (that’s what they were called in 80s Britain). I found that bar-mitts worked well on my motorbike, insulated mountain-climbing gloves with thin wool liners - not too tight! With all this wool gear there’s a layer of air that insulates you from the cold, and after you’ve ridden a mile or three you’ll probably want to take one of your balaclavas off - wool outside/ silk or merino next to your skin. Anybody seeing a pattern? Learned my lessons with synthetics.

[@theyorkshirewheeler]

I have cold hands and feet for around 10 months of the year thanks to bad circulation. Can quite put me off wanting to get out on a ride sometimes. Just wish there was a cure for it!

[@samanthawalker6677]

Cling film around the toes. Cheap and effective 😊

[@ballroomdru]

$25 bar mitts aka pougies. Best $25 I could spend. They are on my bike from Halloween until April fools day. Them plus gloves have allowed me to ride to work in 32 degree F/ 0 degrees C weather in the morning.

[@casquilho]

I wear thick wool hiking socks selected to fit inside a pair of Lake boots that I put merino-wool ski boot liners in. The tips of my toes still get cold. Oh well. Also, keeping my arms and legs warm seems to help keep my hands and feet warm.

[@bockersjv]

Merino wool is the secret to warm socks.

[@blaze1148]

....not if they get wet though.

[@mcmike3712]

I suffer from Raynauds syndrome. I can handle temps in the 40's F with glove liners and gloves, and shoe covers, sometimes with hand & toe warmers. For me, when temps fall below 40 F only socks and gloves with battery powered heating elements can prevent painful hands and feet.

[@shaunmcnally7631]

If you're going to wear thicker socks, you need to have some shoes that are about 2 sizes larger than summer shoes. Stuffing thick socks into tight shoes is worse than nothing at all. In Minnesota there comes a point in the fall where thermal overshoes go on and then don't come off till spring. I don't even take them off the shoe. So the toe area gets wrapped in foil, then the thermal overshoe goes on. A thin plastic bag goes over each foot between 2 thin socks. But once the snow really flies, the fatbike comes out. Flat pedals and sport snow boots. Plus the slower speeds of the fatbike means less wind chill too.

[@Shadowboost]

3m thinsulate gloves for me. Wore ski gloves in 28 deg F and was too hot and too bulky. Double socks is easy for my feet. Overshoe if it's sub 25 deg F

[@madyogi6164]

🤞Let's hope winters won't be too harsh for riders! 4:00 I do pretty much alike. Put a sock, then a very thin, small plastic bag (one that covers tows; feet at most) then another sock and a shoe. Dedicated winter pair not required. though some overshoes might still be required for longer rides.

[@meibing4912]

Amazing difference in bar width! Oh - and my fingers and toes are very cold too.

[@WarHammerWH]

Thanks for the great tips. Did a ride at 1C a few days ago and although I felt the cold I wasn’t cold. However when the temp dropped to 0C at the end of my 50km ride my feet were numb and fingers freezing. I find that the wind is also a major factor. 1C with 10kph wind is quite bearable but 3C with 20kph isn’t…

[@vilago5]

This. Also one thing never mentioned is distance/time. There is a limit to how far you can go no matter what you do to keep the cold out. Eventually it gets in.

[@mikeallan1559]

crab gloves....perfect, two fingers skin to skin keep them much warmer. revolutionary when i started using them

[@serisingh]

They missed the key to warm hands, which is making sure your core is super warm. Wear an extra layer than you think you need, and make sure you leave the house already feeling toast warm. This way, your hands won’t feel so cold on the bike. Also, they didn’t mention lobster gloves or split mittens, which are a must if the temperature goes too much below freezing.

[@mnveloguy]

I don’t have hood circulation in my hands or feet. The only thing that keeps me warm in cold and wet weather is riding a velomobile. Best purchase I ever made.

[@willmo1725]

I have a sock related question. Being rather unwilling to pay 30 or more dollars for a pair of Marino wool socks, or cycle specific socks. What material make up, is best if your allergic to wool and 30 dollar a pair socks in general? Thanks for the show very good info

[@aszalai86]

My secret weapon: Neoprene socks! Of course you need some extra space in your shoes so they will fit - so those tight Italian shoes will probably be too tight, but in my Lakes a pair of 2-3mm neoprene socks feel great - warm, comfortable until about 5 degrees C. Lower than that, or for longer rides, I do need overshoes as well. Also please no aluminium foil - it beaks into a million little parts and is a PITA to clean out afterwards. And plastic wrap: not the best idea either as it completely blocks ventilation which you do not want.

[@PercyTP5161]

I have poor circulation, and overshoes with heated battery socks, and heated glove liners with full winter gloves over the top are the only things that stop that pain for hours :)

[@obikedog]

Nice tips on adulterating old shoes with Al foil, etc. fwiw Neoprene gloves didn't work for me. I bought a nice pair of Assos and my hands were as cold as I've ever felt them. When I need gloves it's cold and these don't cut it. Hands on the bars are not at all like surfing where the water near the skin can warm up and there's little wind. I wear an insulated underglove with a waterproof shell(WTB makes good ones). This year I will be trying hand and toe warmers because even with that - after a few hours my hands are numb. Also be sure when wearing booties to keep socks from disrupting the seal on the calf or they will wick water down to your feet in a NY second. As for "my hands usually warm up on the ride". People who say this have never ridden very far (or at all!) in near-freezing, rainy conditions!

[@dinop4675]

On extra cold days and to get me out of a tight spot, a pair of nylon/latex catering or medical gloves inside my reg gloves will keep hands warmer, but with more sweat, not ideal but handy

[@johnreese3762]

Just ordered my winter gloves! Watched this video a little late.. Thanks anyway!!

[@cheesesandwich1236]

Remember what Mom told you "If your feet are cold put on a hat."

[@croccofanto]

"pogies" that one put over the shifters/handlebars. there not sexy but super effective for blocking the wind. Then just a regular thing gloves under those. Feet is tricky to keep warm tho. for commuting i would say doubblesided pedals and trekking shoes. Keeps water out and are warmer. Not being attached to the pedal can be nice in winter when it's slippery on uneaven ice.

[@johnlieto8906]

great video, love that bike color Manon. Although I do ride in cold, anything less than 40 degrees, I am inside, just more efficient especially if your riding an hour or less, better off inside and as you age, breathing in cold air has its downside.

[@Frostbiker]

A merino wool neck warmer over your mouth helps with breathing cold air, as does any fabric mask. A hear exchanger mask is also an option, but probably overkill in most circumstances.

[@mateharris]

Keep core warm to keep extremities warm. And put the shiny side of tin foil up toward foot to reflect heat back toward foot.

[@valiecs2968]

for the hands I recommend using a pair of surgical gloves under the thermal gloves. tested and works

[@Elc0chin0]

gloves: Here where I live it doesn't get or stay cold too long. I do ride a scooter which can get cold when it's cold. I learned that you can put on a pair of latex or surgical gloves over your gloves, it works as a wind breaker and does keep your hands nice and warm.