Winter riding isn’t about being tough, it’s about being smart (with a little sprinkle of stubbornness).
You can ride through the winter and I would argue it’s kind of enjoyable to do so. You don’t need a fat bike or a beard that turns into icicles (though both are a pretty cool addition).
So what do you need to tackle the icy roads?
Layers, good gear, and a solid plan to stay warm, safe, and not weep mid-ride because you can’t feel your toes anymore.
Tobias’ Winter Bike Riding Checklist For Tackling the Cold
This checklist keeps your cold-weather rides from turning into suffer-fests. It’s for those chilly early morning commutes, frozen gravel loops, or winter training rides when you just want to get that bike workout in.
Clothing (Layering is Everything)
- ✅ Base layer (top + bottom) — merino or synthetic (ditch the cotton)
- ✅ Thermal jersey or mid-layer — fleece-lined if you’re fancy
- ✅ Outer shell — windproof and/or waterproof
- ✅ Thermal bibs or tights — wind-blocking front is a bonus
- ✅ Shoe covers or winter cycling boots
- ✅ Wool socks — bring an extra pair just in case
- ✅ Neck gaiter or Buff — pulls up over nose when needed
- ✅ Insulated gloves — dexterity + warmth = ideal
- ✅ Inner glove liners (optional but nice)
- ✅ Helmet cover or cap — vents are your enemy in winter
- ✅ Clear or yellow lenses — low light conditions are common
- ✅ Hi-vis or reflective gear — days are short, be seen
Bike Gear & Setup
- ✅ Fenders (your butt will thank you)
- ✅ Lights: front and rear (even during the day)
- ✅ Wider tires or treaded rubber (28mm+ helps w/ slop)
- ✅ Lower tire pressure for better grip
- ✅ Dry lube or wet lube depending on snow/salt/mud
- ✅ Chain cleaning kit (more frequent maintenance needed during winter)
- ✅ Battery check (E-bikes & Lights) — cold kills juice fast
Extras & Good Ideas
- ✅ Hand warmers (stash in gloves or pockets)
- ✅ Toe warmers (game changer on long rides)
- ✅ Lip balm (windburn is real)
- ✅ Thermos with tea/coffee/hot electrolytes (you legend)
- ✅ Emergency foil blanket (small, weighs nothing, could save you)
- ✅ Extra buff or liner gloves in saddle bag
- ✅ Small towel for wiping down post-ride
- ✅ Ziplock bag for phone (winter rain/snow ≠ friendly)
Cold Weather Riding Tips (Tobias Wisdom™)
- Don’t overdress — you should feel slightly chilly at the start
- Cover your knees, always
- Hydrate, even if you’re not sweaty
- Pack calories — your body’s burning more than usual
- Ride loops close to home if it’s sketchy out
- Know your frostbite temps — fingers and toes go first
- Trust your gut: if it feels unsafe, skip the ride
Get the Winter Bike Riders Checklist PDF
Stay warm, ride long, and still feel your toes at the end.
Not everything on my list are essential “must-haves”, you pick what fits your ride. Length, route, traffic, everything plays a part when it comes to how you pack and prepare for your own chilly adventure.
Most importantly, don’t forget to reward yourself with a bit of soup and some cozy slippers afterwards!
— Tobias