WINTER MOUNTAIN BIKE GEAR
CHOOSING THE RIGHT KIT
Sponsored by CompetitiveCyclist.com
When it comes to winter mountain bike gear, there’s no shortage of options to keep you warm, dry or both. Different locales require different types of winter gear and, thanks to our friends at CompetitiveCyclist.com, we were able to get a solid assortment of cold weather gear that would run the gamut of mild California winter riding gear to cold Colorado slush days on the trail. We put together these different kits and video to showcase some of the different features that make cold weather mountain bike clothing effective, without turning you into a human sauna. Check out the video and links below for more information on how to pick the right winter riding gear for you.
CALIFORNIA COLD KIT
For those of you closer to the equator, it doesn’t get nearly as cold, or wet, but we know, your thin blood still sends you into shiver mode when the temperature drops below 50 degrees. Before moving to Bend, Oregon we barely felt the need to bundle up on our hometown trails in Southern California, but on the mornings when you needed a layer, it would be brutal to be ill-prepared. Having a lightweight, breathable shell jacket that can be easily stored and folded up once the temperatures rise is a huge benefit for these areas. Since the temps won’t usually stay below 40 once the sun comes up, having the ability to shed layers and not overheat is very important so thin shells that have a water resistant treatment can be gold! We also like having a thin, water resistant glove as the overgrown shrubs can hold dew and moisture, making for cold wet hands. Check out some ideas here.
CRAFT PRO DRY NANOWEIGHT SLEEVELESS BASE LAYER
MSRP: $56.99
Lightweight, cooling mesh top with excellent temperature management during the most intense activities. And when we say lightweight we mean it. This top weighs in at less than a single piece of paper.
FEATURES/MATERIALS
- Rated for days that are 50*F and warmer
- Tight fit
- Thin, lightweight fabric that provides you with the best moisture transport.
- Recycled polyester for decreasing the environmental footprints
- Taped details for a lightweight construction
- Fabric: 48% Polyester 39% Polyester-recycled 13% Elastane
100% HYDROMATIC SHORT
MSRP: $129.00
Besides being fully waterproof and highly breathable, the Hydromatic Short features waterproof zippered pockets that keep valuables safe and sound in wet weather. It’s designed to effortlessly slip over your favorite chamois, offering up plenty of room to move, but without being overly baggy and cumbersome while you’re pedaling. Furthermore, there’s internal waist adjusters for fine-tuning the fit, as well as reflective logos for enhanced visibility after dark.
- 5-layer membrane for waterproofing and breathability
- Fully sealed seams prevent moisture from soaking through
- Polyester-elastane stretch fabric promotes range of motion
- Waterproof zip pockets keep valuables safe in wet conditions
- Hook-and-loop internal waist adjusters for a secure fit
SPECIALIZED DEFLECT JACKET + SWAT
MSRP: $125
Crafted from a wind-resistant, water-resistant, and highly breathable Pertex Quantum Air, this jacket keeps up with demanding days and has abrasion-resistant panels to ensure it sticks around for more than one season. Its SWAT-compatible design comes in the form of a zippered chest pocket that’s actually a rectangle shape to fit into the down tube of Specialized’s SWAT-equipped bikes.
- Versatile cycling jacket for uncertain weather forecasts
- Pertex Quantum Air fabric is breathable and weather-resistant
- Regular fit promotes a more natural range of motion
- Under-helmet scuba hood adds protection without losing comfort
- Abrasion-resistant panels bolster jacket’s durability
- Chest pocket
- Fits in Specialized’s SWAT-ready bikes
COLORADO COLD KIT
When most mountain bikers think winter, it’s hard to not think about the freezing cold Rocky Mountains. Riders who live in frigid areas face challenges when it comes to staying warm without sweating too much. Having the right kind of layers is vital to comfort and in some cases, survival. Knowing the types of materials and how to wear them is essential to braving the elements. Here are a few examples of pieces we like and wear regularly for Central Oregon’s high desert winter ride days.
CASTELLI CORE SEAMLESS BASE LAYER
MSRP: $79.99
The soft and synthetic blended fabric form-fits to comfort and work under more substantial winter riding jackets. Castelli provides the Core with exceptional wicking power and warmth, and it’s rated to perform down to 39*F. A lighter weight weave is used on the side and the back to provide uniform insulation when considering you’ll tuck this under bib straps that have a certain level of insulation built into them.
SPECS/MATERIALS
- Castelli’s seamless long-sleeve base layer for cool to cold riding conditions
- Synthetic blend fits close to body and works well with winter jackets
- Lighter weight construction on sides and back for enhanced comfort
- Wide neck hides away from jersey collars to remain unseen
- Rate for efforts outside in 39-61 degrees F
FOX DEFEND THERMO HOODED JERSEY
$149.95
The Defend Thermo Hooded jersey is an abrasion-resistant, mid-layer, designed for breathable next-to-skin insulation. Its wind-blocking, moisture wicking fabric makes it the ideal choice for chilly descents, while the form-fitting hood fits neatly underneath your mountain bike helmet.
- Polartec® Power Grid™ offers channeled insulation that provides enhanced lightweight, moisture wicking insulation
- Abrasion-resistant, wind-blocking fabric helps keep you warm while descending
- Form-fitting hood fits underneath your helmet
- Zippered stash pocket on the hip keeps your stuff in place on the roughest rides
- Length (HPS): 31″, size large
BOTTOMS
While many people neglect the lower half of their body, we’d argue that having warm legs and feet will mean less layers and gear up top, which makes for a more comfortable ride. Whether you’re looking for a fleece-lined pant or thin water resistant shorts for the occasional puddles, there’s an option for you.
PEARL IZUMI LAUNCH TRAIL PANT
MSRP: $150
Whether the trail report calls for brambles or fall days are upon us, the Pearl Izumi Launch Trail Pant keeps us protected during singletrack rides. The lightweight fabric breathes well and dries quickly, so we can stay comfortable between the climb up and the shred back down the trails. The fit allows for wearing a chamois liner short and knee pads when desired, and the tapered leg keeps the hem well out of way of the chain.
- Fast-drying fabric keeps you cool and dry
- Comfortable cut allows for liner short or knee pads
- Two zippered side pockets
- Material: 68% Cordura nylon, 21% polyester, 11% elastane, PI Dry finish
SUGOI RESISTOR PANT
MSRP: $159.95
The SUGOi Resistor Pants are the outer layer that extends your season of pedaling. Their 3-layer Dri Shield construction and fully sealed seams keep moisture from seeping in, while their knit construction allows air to flow so vapor can escape. They are equipped with side zippers in case you need extra ventilation, and feature Zap reflectivity which adds visibility in all directions. Pre-shaped knees and an integrated belt provide a comfortable fit on and off the bike.
- Waterproof pants for cycling in wet weather
- Dri Shield provides waterproof, breathable protection
- Seams fully sealed for excellent waterproofing
- Side zippers provide ventilation
- Integrated belt customizes the fit
- One zippered side pocket
WET WEATHER JACKETS
ALPINESTARS TAHOE WP
MSRP: $189.99
To keep you going through the harshest elements, Alpinestars crafts the Tahoe WP jacket to be completely waterproof, thanks to a combination of taped seams and a membrane that keeps moisture on the outside during downpours, but allows for perspiration to breathe on long climbs as well. The jacket is built with a burly hood that slides over your helmet with ease to help your noggin stay dry, and zippered pockets that keep your gadgets safely stowed away from the showers.
- A jacket to take to the trains in snow, sleet, or hail
- Waterproof construction keeps you dry in downpour
- Zippered vents let heat escape on climbs
- Helmet-compatible hood keeps your noggin dry
- Stash important goodies in two zippered pockets
- Relaxed fit with drop-tail hem keeps you dry with room for layer
PEARL IZUMI SUMMIT WBX
MSRP: $200
Pearl Izumi Summit WxB Jacket can have you prepared for sudden downpours thanks to its waterproof fabric with fully taped seams. The jacket is constructed from Pearl Izumi’s waterproof and highly breathable ELITE WxB 2.5-layer fabric, and is equipped with underarm vents that further enhance breathability, which means you’ll stay dry without overheating when it’s time to crank up the pace.
- A waterproof jacket for mountain biking, cycling, & even casual wear
- WxB 2.5-layer fabric is waterproof and highly breathable
- Fully taped seams help you stay dry in sudden downpours
- Additional DWR treatment helps water bead up & roll off the jacket
- 3-way hood fits over helmets, can be stowed away when not in use
- Underarm vents enhance breathability when you’re riding hard
- 2-way watertight zipper lets you further customize the ventilation
- Two front hand pockets for storage, reflective elements for visibility
COLD WEATHER GLOVES
Having the right winter gloves is crucial for a fun day on the trails. Trying to focus on fun while your digits are throbbing is hardly the way to have a good time. If you’re like Drew who has notoriously cold hands and needs sub-zero mitts for temps in the 40’s or you run hot and just need a thin windbreaker glove for brisk mornings, we suggest picking the right tool for the job to maximize safety and fun. It’s important to have the right gloves for the right conditions, so don’t be afraid to pack a couple for your ride as temperatures change throughout the day or moisture soaks the first set.
GIRO BLAZE GLOVE
MSRP: $39.99
FEATURING A POLARTEC® WINDBLOC® BACKHAND WITH A MICROFLEECE LINING THAT OFFERS HIGH DEXTERITY WHILE MAINTAINING WARMTH.
The new AX Suede™ Echo palm absorbs little moisture and is lined with fleece for additional warmth and a reflective screen print pattern across the entire backhand offers enhanced visibility. With a temperature rating of 40° to 50° F, this glove will keep you comfortable as you continue riding and training through cooler weather.
SPECS/MATERIALS:
- Rated for 40 – 50*F ( PNW Fall/Spring Glove | SoCal Winter Glove )
- Upper Construction: Soft-shell nylon with “flame laminated” dwr treatment and Reflective detailing
- Padding: Optimized Gel Padding
- Palm: Ax Suede Echo, super fit engineered three-panel design, Touchscreen technology for use with mobile devices
GORE WINDSTOPPER THERMO GLOVE
$79.95
With insulation under the GORE® WINDSTOPPER® shell, this glove will protect your fingers on very cold days. Keeping your hands warm should be a number one priority if you’re serious about getting out into the hills in cold weather.
SPECS/MATERIALS
- Rated for 41 – 59*F ( PNW Fall/Spring Glove | SoCal Winter Glove )
- GORE® WINDSTOPPER® product: totally windproof, extremely breathable and durably water resistant
- Thermo lining: increases warmth; brushed and soft back for next-to-skin comfort
- Absorbent material on thumb for wiping away perspiration
- Foam padded palm provides shock absorption to prevent fatigue
