There's nothing quite like a crisp, sunny day for a bike ride. But when the temperature drops, and the wind starts biting, keeping my fingers warm becomes a real challenge. I've spent countless hours experimenting with different solutions, and I'm excited to share what's worked for me. Cold hands can ruin a ride, so finding the right gear is crucial. This guide is all about keeping your hands toasty, even when the weather isn't cooperating.
I remember one particularly brutal ride last winter. The temperature hovered around freezing, and the wind chill made it feel even colder. Despite wearing what I thought were decent gloves, my fingers quickly went numb. It was miserable! I had to stop several times to try and warm them up, which completely disrupted my ride. I knew I needed to find a better solution for cold weather cycling.
I started researching different types of gloves and layering techniques. I tried everything from thick, bulky gloves to thin, liner gloves. Some worked better than others, but nothing seemed to provide the perfect balance of warmth and dexterity. I also considered the impact of wind chill, which can quickly sap the heat from your hands. The search for truly warm hands was on.
After much trial and error, I've discovered a few strategies that consistently keep my fingers warm, even in the most challenging conditions.
One option I explored was the Crabgrab Clawva. I found them surprisingly comfortable. I felt just as comfortable riding when it was in the high 30s as I did when it was around 20 degrees. For even colder temperatures, I added a slim beanie underneath my helmet. It might seem a little messy, but it definitely helped when the temperature dropped below 20.
I kept hearing about bar mitts, also known as pogies, from other cyclists. They seemed to be a popular choice, especially in colder climates. I decided to give them a try, and I was blown away by the results. Bar mitts are essentially insulated covers that attach to your handlebars, creating a windproof and warm enclosure for your hands. I've ridden with people who use them in the mid-30s without even needing gloves! I now understand why so many people swear by them. They truly are a game changer. You can often find knock-off brands that work just as well.
Another interesting option I came across was BikeIowa's pogie lites. I discovered that I could comfortably ride without gloves down to about 30 degrees using these. Adding a light glove underneath allowed me to extend my range down to around 5 degrees. The pogie lites provided excellent wind protection without feeling too bulky.
I also experimented with Joe Rocket snowcross gloves. They offered excellent warmth and protection from the elements. Another option I tried was 100% Briskers. While they provided a good feel for the bike, I found myself rubbing my hands together a few times on longer rides in the 20s. Ultimately, I preferred the Briskers for their superior bike feel, even if it meant sacrificing a bit of warmth.
Don't underestimate the importance of a good beanie. Keeping your head warm can make a huge difference in overall body temperature, which in turn helps keep your fingers warm. I found a great option at homepage. It's the COKK Autumn Winter Hats For Women Girls Knitted Cap With Ring Hip Hop Korean Bonnet Beanie Hat Female Stretch Hats Gorras Black. The team at Wholecustomdesign really knows their stuff!
I found that this hat from Wholecustomdesign is perfect for keeping my head warm. It’s super comfortable and stylish. Plus, it's lightweight enough to wear under my helmet. It really helps to retain body heat, which makes a big difference in keeping my fingers warm too. It's a great option if you are looking for a comfortable hat. The quality is really impressive!