Gear up for Winter: Biking Edition

Yes, it's cold, but you don't have to be.

What is it that you love most about bicycling? Is it the rush of wind in your face? What if that wind is a 20 mph northwesterly gust in the middle of January? Make no mistake about it, biking in the winter takes dedication and good gear. We can help you with the latter.

Biking Gear to Keep You Warm

Earlier this week, Trail Voice posted a question to our Facebook and Twitter communities:

"Hey cyclists, what winter gear can you not live without? Please share with the Trail Voice community."

Without further ado, here are some of the best recommendations from intrepid area cyclists:

Tom Jackson, Vice-President of MORE

• Cop Bike Pants - Instant street cred
• Enclosed Head Gear - Warmth without losing your peripheral vision

• Lobster Gloves - Try some claws on for size
• Lake Winter Boots - Perhaps really good ski socks will also do the trick. Who needs to feel their toes anyways?

• Bib Tights - Stylish enough for five-star restaurants
• Wind and Waterproof Jacket - No joke here, this is the real deal for cyclists

Read all of Anne's recommendations on her Winter Weather Clothing page.

With the right gear and some common sense (avoid frozen ponds), winter cycling can be bearable and even enjoyable. We'll end this article with some of our own winter gear thoughts:

1. Wear wicking insulated layers (absolutely NO cotton)
2. Generously protect extremities - your hands and feet are highly exposed on a bike
3. Breathe deeply...who doesn't love that cold air burning sensation in the lungs?