What to Wear on Winter Rides: My Cold Weather Mountain Biking Gear Essentials
Whether you like it or not (and I do not), winter is just around the corner, so it’s time to bust out your cold-weather mountain biking gear. While some riders trade their bikes for skis, others (like me) keep pedaling when the snowflakes start to fly. Over the years, I’ve ridden in everything from light frost to full-on winter wonderlands, and I’ve learned that the right gear can make all the difference between a miserable ride and an epic one.
In this post, I share my go-to cold-weather riding essentials, along with some personal experiences that have shaped my gear choices.
This guide covers everything you need to wear for winter mountain biking, from head to toe. Whether you’re braving freezing temps or just dealing with chilly mornings, here’s how to dress for success on the trails.
Head & Neck: Keep the Heat In
Your head loses heat quickly, so keeping it covered is key. I’ve learned this the hard way on cold rides—starting off warm but quickly feeling the chill creep in through my helmet vents and into my ears. A good skull cap or balaclava makes all the difference.
What to Wear:
Pro tip: Choose a breathable balaclava so you don’t get fogged-up glasses!
Upper Body: Layer Like a Pro
Your torso holds the most heat, so proper layering is key to staying warm without overheating. I’ve had days where I started a ride feeling great, only to end up drenched in sweat halfway up the first climb, making the descent freezing. Finding the right balance with layers is essential.
Best Cold-Weather MTB Layers:
Layering tip: Avoid overly bulky layers that can restrict movement or feel uncomfortable under your outer shell.
Hands: Keep the Frostbite Away
Cold hands = no fun. They’re usually the first thing to get cold for me on winter rides. A good pair of gloves makes all the difference.
Top Winter MTB Gloves:
|
Weather |
Best Glove Option |
|---|---|
|
Cold & dry |
HANDUP Winter Gloves. These gloves keep my hands warm when the temps drop. |
|
Windy |
Gore Windstopper Gloves. I usually wear these on winter gravel rides, but they’re great for winter mountain bike rides, too. |
|
Wet & rainy |
Shower’s Pass Cross Point Knit Waterproof Gloves. Heading out in a drizzle? These gloves will keep your hands dry. |
Pro tip: If temps are below freezing, use bar mitts (pogies) for extra insulation.
Legs: Insulation Without Bulk
Your legs generate heat when pumping, but you still need protection from the elements on winter rides. There are two schools: leggings/tights and baggy pants. I’m team baggy pants.
What to Wear:
Feet: Warm & Dry is the Goal
Cold toes can ruin a ride fast! Here’s how to prevent it.
|
Footwear |
Best Option |
|---|---|
|
Shoes |
Fi’zi:k X5 Artica GTX Shoe, which are specifically designed for winter riding. |
|
Socks |
Darn Tough Socks – my favorite socks! They’re warm and moisture-wicking. |
|
Extras |
Showers Pass Crosspoint Waterproof Socks for extra wet and slushy rides. |
Pro tip: If your feet still get cold, try using chemical toe warmers inside your shoes.
Final Touches: Extra Gear for Cold Rides
Here are a few last things to make winter riding even better:
Winter Mountain Biking FAQs
Q: What’s the best way to keep feet warm while riding in winter?
A: Wear insulated, waterproof shoes, merino wool socks, and waterproof oversocks if needed. Also, keep your core warm, as cold feet can result from poor circulation.
Q: How many layers should I wear for winter mountain biking?
A: Use a 3-layer system: moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and windproof/water-resistant shell. Adjust based on temperature and weather conditions.
Q: Can I use ski gloves for winter mountain biking?
A: You can, but they might be too bulky for braking and shifting. Look for MTB-specific winter gloves that offer warmth without sacrificing dexterity.
Final Thoughts
Winter riding can be some of the best riding—if you’re dressed right! Investing in quality cold-weather MTB gear means you’ll stay warm, dry, and comfortable no matter how chilly it gets.
🚵♀️ What’s your go-to winter riding gear? Drop a comment below and share your favorite cold-weather MTB tips!
Helpful posts as really really need some gear for winter -here in upstate New York. Unfortunately none of the links go to companies that carry a size I can use. It is impossible to find BigWomen clothing. And I mean big. I am 67 years old and 350
Pounds and like to ride daily. Do you have any suggestions for 3x or 4x clothing????? Thanks
Hi Emilie! I know SHREDLY makes plus-sized women’s mountain bike gear and Zoic has a short that comes in 3x. Ride Cosmic Dirt is a newer brand that is releasing technical gear like jerseys in 2022, so keep an eye on them as well. Happy shredding!
I love this post – thank you for sharing!