19.05.12

Last week, I wrote about my new (old) winter bike, and my determination to use it through rain, snow, sleet and darkness of night. So far it's performing flawlessly, and I'm enjoying getting out in the December chill and dark. Really. I am.

So, let's talk about winter biking fashion this week. Like my winter bike itself, the emphasis is on cheap. My goal in dressing to ride in the cold was to do it for free. My intention was to buy nothing, and by raiding my closet and basement, I pretty much succeeded.

The photo at right is of me modeling my biking gear (shot by professional photographer and alder, but not winter biker so far as I know, Bridget Maniaci). It starts with layers. I wear four thin jackets that I had lying around the house. The top layer is a yellow rain slicker, which gives me some visibility and keeps the rain, snow and wind from penetrating. When I'm wearing all four, I'm comfortable down to at least 25° F. I often take a layer or two off for the return trip if I leave in the morning and come home during a warm afternoon. What I'm going for here is flexibility to adjust to changing conditions, as well as visibility in the top layer.

Source: Isthmus