The Best Winter Cycling Gear of 2021
Gear to help you appreciate cold-weather riding
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Patagonia Dirt Roamer Storm Pants ($269)
With zippers from cuff to quad, these recycled-nylon bottoms pull on easily over shoes and pads. Articulated knees, ample space over the quads, and a high rear waist give full range of motion while pedaling.
POC Tectal Race Spin NFC Helmet ($250)
POC upped the safety on this mountain-bike helmet, with a Recco reflector to help rescuers find you and a medical ID chip that stores vital health data (useful for first responders). The goggles clip is clutch for winter riding.
Showers Pass Ranger Waterproof Hip Pack ($130)
Free your neck and shoulders with this seven-liter waterproof lumbar pack. We jammed snacks and layers into the roomy main compartment and zipped our phone into the outer one, with tubes and tools in the external roll.
Pearl Izumi Amfib Lobster Gel Gloves ($85)
Pearl Izumi’s latest take on the classic lobster glove uses 170 grams of partially recycled synthetic fill, which kept our paws warm on a windy, sub-30-degree day. Synthetic leather palms add grip.
Roka Matador Sunglasses ($195 and up)
The Matador’s new cylindrical lens, which comes in ten interchangeable tints, eliminates road distortion from any riding position. The temples are positioned low on the frame to reduce helmet interference.
45Nrth Naughtvind Winter Shell Jacket ($295)
Made from breathable, water-resistant stretch nylon and polyurethane fabric, this outer layer is seriously warm. Other highlights: side zips, an asymmetric zipper that eliminates chin rub, and reflective shoulder stripes.
Polar Bottle Breakaway Insulated Water Bottle (20 oz, $14; 24 oz, $15)
With three layers of insulation—trapped air, foam, and mylar—the Breakaway not only keeps water from freezing but maintains warmth for hours. The removable self-sealing valve prevents spills.
Bontrager JFW Winter Cycling Shoes ($200)
The JFW is lightweight but built for freezing winter days. The water-resistant neoprene upper and high cuff keep slop at bay, and the chunky rubber outsole is durable and grippy off the bike.
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