Winter Tips and Gear

Now that winter is firmly here it’s time to retreat inside away from Old Man Winter’s icy grip. Not! Here are some tips and gear to keep you rockin’ the outside training.

• 1. Dress for success- The key to winter training is to wear the right gear. You want to dress like it is 10-20 degrees warmer than it actually is. When you first get out there, you will be chilly but your body will start to warm up from the exercise. You also want to dress in layers so that if you aren’t comfortable, you can make the adjustments you need.
• 2. Minimize the mesh- Mesh is great most of the time because it is breathable and allows free water to drain out. When you are trying to stay warm and dry however, mesh is not your friend. It’s going to let in cold air and depending on conditions, snow and slush.
• 3. Stay visible- Not only is it colder out, now daylight hours are shorter, making it more likely your pre or post- work workout will be in low light conditions. Unplowed sideways can force you into sharing close quarters with cars, and snow banks can obstruct views. Bottom line: You need to be seen.
• 4. Switch it up- Taking the bike out on a snowy day? Think about trying studded tires to get a grip on ice and snow. Fat bikes are becoming popular for those plowing through the snow both on road or trail.
• 5. Worry about wind- Two words. Wind Chill. Biting winter winds can make a cold day seem like an exploration through Antarctica. Plan ahead by wearing some gear that is designed to cut through the wind. Speeding along on your bike is going to exacerbate the wind effect.

Pearl Izumi Fly Run Pant – With 360 degree reflectivity you will definitely be seen in these semi-form fitting pants. The Fly Run Pant is made from a lightweight fleece Transfer dry fabric that will keep you warm on chilly mornings and wicks away moisture. Two zippered hand pockets provide enough storage for a snack or a spot to store some layers as you warm up. Reflective accents all over make being seen easy even in dark conditions. Available in both Men’s and Women’s styles.

Pearl Izumi Fly Soft Shell Run Pant- Also by Pearl Izumi, the Fly Soft Shell Run Pant offers great wind protection and warmth with Stretch Thermal Windblocking fabric panels. The inside has Thermal Fleece fabric panels strategically placed to provide additional warmth and moisture management where you need it. The Soft Shell Run pant was designed with an articulated knee, which flows with the natural bend of the leg and allows for a more natural movement. The lower leg features a snap closure, allowing you to throw these on even while wearing shoes, then tighten them up! Reflective logos on the front and back of the knee provide some visibility in low light conditions. Available in both Men’s and Women’s styles.

CW-X Insulator Stabilyx Tight- Are you looking for muscle support and warmth while out braving winter? Check out these insulated compression tights that use a patented Kinesio Support Web to support the muscles of the leg, stabilizing the knee and reducing muscle vibration making your run more efficient and reducing the chance of injury. Titanium and Silver fibers in the fabric maintain antimicrobial properties. Varied compression levels facilitate increased circulation, decreasing lactic acid build up, meaning you can stay active longer and recover faster. Reflective logos provide some extra visibility. Available in both Men’s and Women’s styles.

Castelli Men’s Meno Bibtight- Looking to get on your bike and show that snow who’s the boss? Made using only four panels, the Meno Bibtight utilizes two Thermoflex Core 2 panels in the front to offer enhanced warmth, keeping you warmer in the front where you face the wind. The back panels are Thermoflex, known for superior stretch and allow for breathability in the back. Mesh bib straps allow you to easily layer on top as needed. The Kiss3 seat pad offers a comfortable ride. Giro3 ankle grips and ankle zipper ensure a proper fit around shoe covers. Also available in a windproof version.

Louis Garneau Solano 2 Chamois Tight- The Solano 2 offers protection from the wind and cold while providing the comfort you need to stay in the saddle. The Solano 2 is made from Heatmaxx fabric, designed to retain your body heat with an added layer of Light WindDry 2 fabric on the front and upper back, providing protection against the wind and water. Designed with the bend of the leg in mind, it offers an articulate knee which means a greater range of movement and flexibility. An elastic waist, drawstring, and ankle grips ensure a good fit that stays in place. Available in both Men’s and Women’s styles.

Pearl Izumi Fly Soft Shell Run Jacket- This warm wind blocking fabric strikes the balance of protection, warmth, and breathability. The outside shell is made from Stretch Thermal Windblocking Fabric and the interior Thermal Fleece panels enhance warmth and moisture transfer. An internal fist mitt offers hand protection and seals in body heat. Two front pockets offer a spot to warm up your fingers or storage for a snack or extra gear. Reflective logos offer enhanced visibility. Also offered with hoodie. Available in both Men’s and Women’s styles.

Castelli Men’s Gabba 2 Long Sleeve Jersey- This standout long sleeved bike jersey is light but deceptively warm. Designed to be very aero-dynamic, this jersey uses Windstopper X-Lite Plus fabric that protects against the wind and the rain. The storm flap construction offers protections from wheel spray. Zippered front chest vents allow you to control breathability. A silicone gripper along the bottom hem and form fitting cuffs keeps things in place and seals in body heat. Three rear pockets offer plentiful storage and reflective trim on back offers enhanced visibility when riding with traffic.