Gear Up for Cool-Weather Rides

As a transplant from the sunny shores and endless Summers of Florida, I did not always enjoy the shorter days and frost-covered mornings of Winter. But I have grown to enjoy the season for what is has to offer and the atmosphere it creates for a beautiful ride. Riding the country roads of East Tennessee, there is always a sense of wonder. What will I see around the next corner? Where will I ride today?

In colder weather, the pace of the ride slows down, and there is more time to take in the views that have revealed themselves through the barren trees. I’ll think, “Wow, I don’t remember there being a big barn there.” Or, “I wonder where that gravel road goes.” With less foliage and humidity, the view opens west across the Tennessee Valley to the Cumberland Plateau. The valley was formed by hundreds of tributaries, including Hesse Creek and the Little River. The water from these creeks takes about a year to travel 150 miles down the valley before dumping into the mighty Mississippi and then meandering to the Gulf of Mexico. As I ride past the tributaries, I wonder how long it will take to travel the rest of the way to the warmth of the Gulf.

Thinking of warmer weather, my mind drifts back to the reality of my body’s warmth in the cold Winter air. As you pedal, heat pushes out from your internal oven to heat your body.

Your body is working hard – help it out, and create the best rides with the right gear.

It’s no secret that warm layers are a must for embracing the thrills of a cold-weather ride (when in doubt, default to merino wool for everything). In my experience, lobster gloves are the best way to keep your fingers warm. A great Winter shoe is invaluable. Your footwear needs to be well insulated, wind and waterproof, and have plenty of room for toe wiggling. I have recently stumbled upon the strange yet brilliant creation of socks with toes. It may sound funny, but there is a purpose behind sliding your toes into individual pockets of warmth. It gives your toes freedom to move, increases circulation and insulates them from each other. It has truly made a big difference in my enjoyment of Winter riding. So, I dare you to try them!

The wonder of where a bike will take you is endless. The idea of moderating your body temperature to ensure a pleasant ride is simple and freeing.

Relish in the joy of the ride, rejuvenate by enjoying something warm and laugh at the fun times of Winter cycling.

Happy pedaling!

– Jeff Knippen