Essential winter commuting clothing/gear

[Geonz]

Coldest I've ridden in was four (Fahrenheit), but I only have a 7 mile commute. Any further and I might hvae to resort to those lobster gloves; so far reasonably thick full-fingered gloves have done the trick. Unfortunately, they ended up near the toaster and melting, so I have to invest (there's another, good pair **somewhere** - maybe near my big light - so I hate to replace with other good ones just yet).
I have also managed to get by on unsophisticated layers, though I've picked up one or two "fancy wicking fabric" base layer tights that I use on those colder days. It'll be snug tights, looser tights, and sweats on the bottom; up to four layers on the top.
I got a Gore-tex rain suit given to m e this summer that will be a sweet outer layer those times, too.
Something to cover ears and face is necessary... my little ears are very sensitive.

[Lise]

I hate that we're talking about this.

I'm going to remember this thread is here, though, so I can refer to it when I'm ready to deal with reality.

I don't plan to commute when there's snow and ice, but I sure do hope to ride much longer in the cold this year, and earlier next year.

[mimitabby]

it must be odd for those who are in 100 deg weather, sweating, etc, writing about insulated gloves inner liners and helmet covrs

[Triskeliongirl]

Aaah, but those of us riding in 100 degree weather NOW, have just our arm and leg warmers and wind vests to look forward to for the bulk of winter! But yes, wherever you live, layer, layer, layer. Over the years some of my favorite pieces I've collected include: arm warmers, leg warmers, ear warmers, glove liners (all drilyte type fabric), light wind vest, heavier weight wind vest, gore tex jacket with pit zips. I've used these pieces in various combinations touring all over the world. Breathable fabrics and ventilation is a MUST, as I find overheating can be just as big an issue as being cold. In the mountains of chiapis we would go from arm and leg warmers in the morning, to shorts and a short sleaved jersey by afternoon, to a goretex jacket by evening, over the course of single day! It can be expensive to put all this stuff together, but I did pick up a few nice pieces on ebay.

[Evie]

Do you wear anything over your face?
...I'm clinging to summer like all get-out.

[DebW]

Some people wear ski goggles to protect the eyes and face when it's very cold. I've never resorted to that personally. Balaclava covers the neck and part of the face.

[Bron]

A buff is quite good if you find a balaklava too heavy. I use mine to hide "hat hair" when I get off the bike too.

Now a question. How cold does it have to get before you stop commuting? I'm worrying about how I'll cope if there is ice on the road. The main worry is safety rather than getting cold.

Bron