MTB
For those in the Northern Hemisphere, the cold winter months shouldn't mean that you put your bike away until spring arrives. Get kitted up with this list, and get out there.
For those stuck in winter's icy grip, getting out on the bike can feel like a serious effort. It needn't be. Simply choosing the correct riding kit can make all the difference between you ending up shivering mess or fired up to have a great ride. Read on for tips on what essential kit you should wear to stay warm and dry when you're out on the trails this winter.
Footwear
We're going to start from the bottom and work up, so the first thing to consider is footwear. Your feet and toes don't get the chance to wiggle around much when pedalling, so they're particularly susceptible to low circulation, and becoming uncomfortably numb.
If you're serious about winter riding, investing in a specialist pair of winter boots is a great idea. They’re not cheap, but have dedicated features for keeping your feet dry and warm, such as Gore-Tex and neoprene liners.
Cheaper options include using waterproof socks (such as Sealskinz), and neoprene pull-on shoe covers, although these can be a bit troublesome getting on and off, especially when covered in winter grime.
Finally, some riders will forego their SPDs and ride with flat pedals during the winter for that extra bit of control in the mud. Making the switch to flat pedal shoes also gets you round the potential hurdle of snow packing into your SPD cleats. The take home message here: happy feet equals a happy rider.
Legwear
Obviously your legs move around a lot when hitting the trails so they can take a bit more punishment than the rest of your body. Depending on how hot or cold you personally get whilst riding, there are a few options out there or your legs.
If you really suffer in the cold, then thermal-lined bib tights are your best bet. They fit neatly under your regular riding shorts and come in a variety of fabrics to keep you warm and fairly dry (depending on conditions), while still offering great manoeuvrability.
Fashion in MTB (like everywhere else) is a fairly fickle thing, and we're seeing a growing trend for running trousers this winter. The latest crop of downhill-specific trousers are much better fitting compared to the items of not so distant past, which were essentially MX pants. The benefits of trousers are, of course, added heat retention, but also slush and mud isn't adhered that close to the skin, unlike with tights. Moreover, when it comes to getting changed and washing filthy kit, you only have to remove one layer.
Base layer
Worn right next to your skin, a good base layer is vital for winter riding. The moisture-wicking fabric will draw sweat away from your body, helping to keep you warm and dry. You can go for natural or synthetic fibres, with both having pros and cons. Synthetic base layers are usually lighter and can take a beating in the washing machine, but can get a bit stinky, and aren't quite as warm.
Natural base layers (merino wool) usually are a bit warmer, and remain warm when wet, but they're pricey and require more care when washing. If you're keen on getting as much riding in as possible this winter, though, they're well worth the investment.
Upper body
Bar the base layer, what to wear on your upper half comes down to personal preference. Some people like to layer up, while others prefer just a base layer, jersey, and a thicker technical jacket.
A technical jacket is probably the most expensive winter clothing purchase you'll make, but it's vital in your assault on Mother Nature. Dedicated features to look out for include adjustable cuffs and waist, a dropped tail, high neck and removable hood – all of which are designed to help keep out the elements.
A waterproof, but breathable, fabric such as Gore-Tex is a great option, but it doesn't come cheap. Also, keep an eye out for venting, no matter what price point you're shopping at. Believe it or not, being able to evacuate heat and moisture is also very important.
Layering up with a softshell jacket can provide just as much warmth, with the option of removing a layer if conditions warm up, but it means more stuff to carry on your backpack.
Top tip: Pay close attention to your new jacket's washing instructions, as it can be easy to ruin the waterproofing by cleaning them incorrectly.
Hands
The best winter gloves have thick insulating material on the back of your hands, while having a thinner palm that gives you some degree of comfort and control when riding.
Winter gloves are an area where many brands still struggle. Many still produce what are essentially pared back ski gloves but chunky, padded palms often create arm pump, which is less than ideal for MTB riders.
If you're riding in arctic conditions, some lobster claw mitts will keep your hands warm and still allow you to grab the brakes. Any good winter glove also will sit further down your wrists to keep the worst of the weather out.
Top tip: Take a set of normal trail gloves with you in your pack, sealed in a freezer bag. Get the cold climb or push up out of the way in chunky winter gloves, and then change them for your favourite summer gloves for maximum control on descents.
Eyewear
If you want to go full enduro, a set of clear goggles can work well in winter conditions. Although, if the weather gets really bad, you may need to invest in some tear-off lenses to keep your vision clear.
Alternatively, glasses with clear lenses offer a good compromise between protecting your eyes, and keeping your vision clear. Just don't forget to take a lens cloth with you to keep them clean.
Headwear
If it's really chilly, wearing a low profile skullcap underneath your helmet is a great way to keep out the worst of the cold. A buff or neck gaiter also helps keep your neck warm. They also act to help keep heat inside a jacket when worn on the neck.
It's also worth checking out the new breed of enduro-style helmets. Some are lightweight full-face items, and others feature removable chin sections. The added coverage of these helmets adds up to a slightly warmer ride, and can work a treat during the winter months.
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