How to Survive Winter – Riding Outdoors

Winter doesn’t have to mean hanging up your bike until spring. For many cyclists, the colder months are an opportunity to build mental toughness, maintain fitness, and enjoy quieter roads and trails. But let’s face it—riding outdoors in winter is no walk in the park. Cold temperatures, wet roads, and shorter daylight hours bring their own set of challenges. With the right approach and a few savvy tips, you can keep pedalling and even come to enjoy winter rides.

Here’s how to survive—and thrive—while riding outdoors this winter.

  1. Dress for Success

Layering is your best friend when it comes to winter cycling. Start with a good moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin, add an insulating mid-layer, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof jacket.

  • Head and Hands: A thermal skull cap or headband will keep your head warm under your helmet, while waterproof gloves are essential to avoid frozen fingers. For longer rides, bring an extra pair of gloves to swap out if they get wet.
  • Feet: Cold, wet feet can ruin a ride. Invest in thermal socks and pair them with waterproof overshoes or even a DIY solution like sandwich bags between your socks and shoes.
  • Legs: Layer leg warmers under thermal leggings for extra warmth, and consider waterproof overpants for truly wet days.
  1. Stay Visible

Winter means less daylight and often poor visibility, so being seen is critical. Equip your bike with bright front and rear lights, even during the day, and wear clothing with reflective elements.

  • Tip: Use rechargeable lights and keep a spare battery pack for those unexpectedly long rides.
  1. Keep Your Core Warm

Your body works hard to keep your core temperature stable, so make it easier with an extra layer. Lightweight gilets or thermal vests are great for insulating your torso without adding bulk.

  • Pro Tip: Stash a packable jacket in your back pocket for long descents or emergency warmth.
  1. Protect Against Wet Roads

Mudguards (or fenders) are a winter essential. They keep spray off your back and legs, helping you stay drier and more comfortable. If you’re riding in a group, mudguards with flaps will also keep your riding buddies happy.

  1. Fuel Wisely

Cold weather burns more calories as your body works to stay warm, so don’t skimp on fuelling. Bring snacks that are easy to eat with gloved hands, like pre-cut energy bars or sandwiches in accessible pockets.

  • Hack: Start with warm liquids in your bidons. A hot drink, like tea or an electrolyte mix, can make a world of difference when the chill sets in.
  1. Plan Smart

Winter rides require a bit more preparation. Check the weather forecast and plan your route accordingly. Avoid icy roads or heavily shaded areas that might hide black ice.

  • Timing: Ride during the warmest part of the day to avoid the morning frost and early evening chill.
  • Backup Plan: Always have a way to bail if conditions worsen—whether it’s knowing the closest train station or having a friend on standby for a lift.
  1. Maintain Your Bike

Winter conditions are harsh on your bike, so extra care is essential:

  • Clean your bike regularly to prevent salt and grime from damaging components.
  • Use winter-specific lubes to keep your chain running smoothly in wet conditions.
  • Check your tires frequently and consider switching to wider, grippier tires for better traction.
  1. Take Care of Your Body

Staying warm is key, but don’t neglect your overall well-being:

  • Stretch and warm up properly to avoid stiff muscles.
  • Stay hydrated, even if you’re not sweating as much—it’s easy to forget to drink in the cold.
  • Treat yourself to a hot shower and some cozy food post-ride to recover and stay motivated.
  1. Build Mental Resilience

Winter rides can be tough, but they’re also an opportunity to build mental strength. The satisfaction of finishing a ride in challenging conditions is hard to beat. Break up longer rides into manageable chunks, and focus on the rewarding feeling of achieving your goals despite the weather.

  1. Know When to Call It

Sometimes, the conditions just aren’t safe. If the roads are icy or the wind is dangerously strong, don’t risk it. Opt for an indoor session on the trainer or use the time for strength training instead, we’ll have a guide to riding indoors coming soon.

Winter riding might test your resolve, but it’s also a chance to push your limits and stay consistent with your goals. By dressing appropriately, preparing smartly, and taking care of both yourself and your bike, you can embrace the challenges of cold-weather cycling and come out stronger for it. Remember, every mile you pedal in the winter builds a foundation of grit, endurance, and determination that will pay dividends when the warmer months return.

If you’re looking for tailored advice, training plans, or additional support to crush your winter riding goals, KSU Coaching is here to help. With years of experience in cycling and endurance training, we can help you navigate winter training, optimize your performance, and achieve your personal best—no matter the season.

Book a call below to explore our coaching services, training plans, and expert guidance. Whether you’re preparing for an ultra-distance event, building winter fitness, or just looking to improve your overall performance, we’ve got you covered. Let’s ride through winter together—stronger, smarter, and ready for whatever the road brings!