How Cyclists Keep Their Feet Warm In The Winter
Keep Your Feet Warm In The Winter When Cycling
Cycling is a year-round sport, but when the winter months arrive, adjusting to the drop in temperature can become quite the challenge. Many cyclists over the globe struggle with numb feet on particularly cold days. Within this article, we will be discussing how cyclists keep their feet warm in the winter. We will provide you with all of the tips and tricks needed to have a comfortable ride, no matter the weather.
How Do Cyclists Keep Their Feet Warm?
Keep the following five tricks in mind before you head out on your next bike ride. You’ll soon notice that using one of these techniques, or even combining all five, will help you to completely fall back in love with winter cycling again.
1. Wear Thermal Socks
Wearing thermal socks is perhaps the most obvious solution to cycling in the cold winter months. These socks are slightly thicker than normal socks and are made from a special material that helps to insulate the heat surrounding your feet. This means that no matter the temperature your feet will stay both warm and snug.
Thermal socks are also a great thing to wear when your winter boots or ski boots are rubbing or feel a bit too big. The socks work as a protective layer, cushioning the area which would usually rub or slip.
2. Wear Proper Cycling Shoes
Cycling shoes are a must-have for cyclists who are constantly out riding. These shoes are specially designed for cycling and have just the right amount of grip to ensure your feet don’t slip on the pedal. Not only this, but cycling shoes fit snugly to your feet, keeping them as stable as possible with every move you make.
For the cold winter months, it is worth trying out a pair of winter cycling shoes. These types of cycling shoes have all of the same amazing features as traditional ones, but more grip and insulation to protect you in tougher climates.
3. Cover Shoe Vents
If you continue to wear normal cycling shoes during the winter, it is likely that you’ll find your feet welcoming a cool breeze in. This is due to the fact that normal cycling shoes are made to be breathable, meaning they have vents that allow a constant flow of air in. This might not feel so great when the air is chilly, so as a quick solution, simply cover the vents with duct tape or something similar. This will help to block the vents, stopping any cold air from entering.
4. Use Feet Warmers
Feet warmers are another excellent thing to use on a winter bike ride – just as long as you remember to pop them in your shoes beforehand. Just like hand warmers, feet warmers generate heat to keep your feet cold. Just bear in mind that your shoes will need to have enough space to fit them in.
Feet warmers that are activated by a simple click are probably the most practical type of warmers to use. Otherwise, you will have to plan for your ride even further in advance, accounting in time to heat them up.
5. Utilizing Cling Film
If you’ve tried every technique under the sun and still struggle with exceptionally cold feet when cycling, it’s time to head to the kitchen and grab some cling film. Believe it or not, a lot of cyclists actually wrap their feet up in cling film to prevent any heat from escaping.
It’s all in the name, but because cling film is ‘clingy’, it acts as a very good insulator. Just make sure you have a wash once you’re done cycling, as cling film is also great at generating large amounts of sweat…
How Cold Is Too Cold To Ride A Bike?
While the specific temperature that makes cycling uncomfortable will vary from person to person, temperatures under 50 degrees Fahrenheit tend to be when some people start backing out. If you follow the tips in this guide, however, you’ll probably find that you can withstand colder temperatures for longer. As a general rule of thumb, though, anything under 32 degrees Fahrenheit is considered dangerous territory. Especially if the roads are icy.
Do You Really Need Cycling Shoes?
If you’re serious about cycling, then it’s highly recommended to invest in a pair of cycling shoes. Properly made cycling shoes will support your feet, ensuring that they remain stable at all times throughout the ride. Not only this, but they have a vented system to keep your feet cool and they also have special padding to provide a snug but comfortable fit.
There are thousands of affordable cycling shoes available to buy online, meaning that you don’t have to break the bank to treat yourself to a pair. But, either way, they’re an item worth having as they will truly transform your cycling experience. You will find yourself heading out on longer rides and taking far fewer breaks due to being so comfortable!
