Newbie lessons learned about biking in the approaching cold weather

[obie]

I like a fleece vest for commuting - my torso gets hot easily and if I overheat there I either end up sweaty (which later gives me a chill) or cranky. But with a vest, once it's unzipped, for me it might as well not be there.

[pardes]

Even though it's only 46 degrees today which isn't that cold, it was 85 only a few days ago so the sudden drop feels colder especially with the wind we've had for the past two days. In a few weeks everyone will acclimate but now I hear a lot of weather whining.

I have a feeling that I'll be wearing my EMS rain pants in the morning to block the cold air since I haven't had much luck finding reasonably priced tights to wear under my slacks.

I did just fine with the jacket and a micro fleece vest under it as well as ear muffs but the morning cold wind made my cheeks hurt so I'm looking into something for that. You speedy beavers out there awe me a little because the wind factor is multiplied many times at higher speeds and it must feel frigid if not properly dressed.

When you are dressed properly it is actually pleasant to ride a bike plus those who are never adequately dressed who are walking or zipping out to their cars always think we are such heroes for riding a bike in cold weather. I gave up telling them that there is no such thing as bad weather, just inadequate clothing.

[fastdogs]

I used my arm warmers for the first time today (got them used from here), they are great. I had a heavy coat that I wore to work, but wanted to go mountain biking after work. I had on a t shirt, and just slipped on the arm warmers and stayed nice and warm- they were perfect when a coat would have been too much.
vickie

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I did just fine with the jacket and a micro fleece vest under it as well as ear muffs but the morning cold wind made my cheeks hurt so I'm looking into something for that. You speedy beavers out there awe me a little because the wind factor is multiplied many times at higher speeds and it must feel frigid if not properly dressed.

If it's cold enough for your cheeks to hurt, you might want to consider a thin silky balaclava- they are very versatile. Here's what I wrote about mine:
balaclava

[GeoCam]

If it's cold enough for your cheeks to hurt, you might want to consider a thin silky balaclava- they are very versatile.

Lisa,

I've read your posts about that balaclava before, and I am going to get one. I just got some winter gloves, too, so the only problem area I have left is my feet. I think you are one who does not use clipless pedals, so I am curious about what you wear in cold weather. A hiking type of boot? I have never bought that kind of footwear in my life, so suggestions would be most welcome as to brands or even styles. I do have a wide foot, so that might limit my choices, especially if I want to layer socks as well.