Winter cycling can be a bit daunting, but as with most aspects of Canadian winters, it’s just about good clothing and accessories. By virtue of already living in Canada, you have most of the gear you’ll need for biking through cooler temperatures.
The other good news is that since you have a Zygg electric bike our team will keep it in top shape through your fall and winter ride. To make your ride more enjoyable on the harsher weather days, we have a few recommendations.
Layer Up!
As always with winter sports, layers are key, starting with your outer shell. If it’s just a rainy day you can get by just fine with a cycling poncho or a rain jacket. A cycling poncho covers your body down to your knees when you’re cycling and elastic bands wrap over your hands to keep your arms dry. We especially like Cleverhood which you can grab at the Spacing Store. The hood fits well under your helmet and keeps your eyes dry for the ride.
If it’s a winter wet day best to wear some moisture-wicking base layers and grab a breathable and waterproof jacket and some rain pants. Rain pants are a good option to keep your clothes free from any dirt and adds a windbreaker layer to keep you warmer. You could alternatively wear your ski or snowboard jacket but know that they may degrade due to the salt on the streets.
Extremities
Your hands have a few options to stay warm. On cold and dry days you can wear your regular warm gloves or mittens. On wet days we’d recommend grabbing DWR gloves.
We do love handlebar mitts which are like hand warmers that fit on top of your handlebars. They’re an extra line of defence against the cold and dependent on the model you choose can also be water-resistant. Just make sure they fit comfortably over your handlebar brakes.
Speaking of staying dry, grab your rain boots or some shoe covers to keep your feet dry. It’s also nice to have another pair of socks to change into after your ride.
Ears, Eyes and Face
Keeping your ears warm is key for comfort. You can use your usual bike helmet and add a headband on chilly days. As it gets colder add on either a slim toque under your helmet with a neck tube or go full balaclava on extra cold days.
You can also wear ski or snowboard goggles on snowy days.
