Riding in the Cold: The Do’s and Don’ts of Winter Saddle Time
The cold doesn’t scare a mountain goat — it just makes the climb more interesting. But when temps drop, smart riders adapt or pay for it halfway through a frozen trail with numb fingers and regret. Whether you’re rolling on the Swamp Rabbit or tackling Brushy Creek, here’s how to stay warm, dry, and dialed in.
🧤 DO: Layer Smart, Not Heavy
Forget the bulky hoodie move. Go for three layers that trap heat but breathe:
Base Layer: Moisture-wicking (merino wool or synthetic). Cotton kills — it stays wet and freezes you out.
Mid Layer: Light insulation like a thermal or fleece.
Outer Shell: Windproof, water-resistant, and vented. A good jacket makes or breaks your ride.
RMGA Tip: Keep your chest protected — cold wind hits your lungs faster than you think.
🧢 DO: Cover the Extremes
Most riders lose heat from hands, feet, and head.
Gloves: Windproof with a snug cuff; consider bar mitts for long rides.
Feet: Wool socks + waterproof shoe covers.
Head: Thin thermal beanie under the helmet.
No need to look like the Michelin Man — just cover what matters.
🚱 DON’T Skip Hydration
Cold weather tricks you into thinking you’re not sweating. You are.
Dehydration hits just as hard in 40°F air as it does at 90°F.
Sip water or electrolytes every 15–20 minutes. If your bottle freezes, tuck it upside down in the cage — ice forms at the top first.
⚡ DO Warm Up the Engine
Don’t blast out of the driveway cold.
Give yourself 5–10 minutes of low-gear spinning or dynamic stretches to loosen up the joints. Once your blood’s moving, pick up pace.
Cold muscles tear easily — treat your warm-up like insurance.
❌ DON’T Overdress
You’ll feel chilly for the first five minutes. That’s perfect.
If you’re warm before the first hill, you’ll be drenched in sweat halfway through. Wet = cold = miserable.
Aim for slightly cool at the start, and let the effort heat you up.
🧊 DO Keep a Post-Ride Plan
Have a warm recovery routine waiting — dry clothes, hot drink, maybe a sauna if you’re smart. Your body burns extra energy to stay warm, so refuel fast: protein + clean carbs.
And if you’ve really pushed it, a float session doesn’t hurt either. Even goats need calm water after cold climbs.
🧠 The Mindset
Cold riding builds grit. It sharpens focus and discipline. Every ride in rough conditions stacks mental toughness — the same way lifting builds muscle.
You don’t get softer in winter; you get sharper.
