As much as we wish we could bike only in beautiful, sunny weather, we know that isn’t always possible. That’s why we’ve come up with a handy selection of bike gear for riders facing rain, heat, and even snow. We know pedaling in anything other than optimal temperatures and weather can be frustrating because it usually means cruising around while carrying around extra gear “just in case.” That’s why we focused on portable and packable picks.
Keep reading for our top 10 weather solutions for urban commuters — in no particular order other than by weather-condition type.
WEATHER SOLUTIONS FOR URBAN COMMUTERS
PEARL iZUMi BARRIER WxB SHOE COVER, $55
When cooler temps set in, it’s important to keep your feet warm and dry while you pedal. PEARL iZUMi makes the PRO Barrier WxB Shoe Cover for such inevitable occasions. Whether you’re on a road bike or mountain bike, these clever covers go head to head against wind and water so your shoes don’t have to. The bright neon yellow gives night riders a little extra visibility.
GIRE SEASONAL MERINO WOOL CAP, $55
Merino wool is like the holy grail of fabrics because you can wear it nearly all year round. Giro makes a retro-looking Seasonal Merino Wool Cap that pairs perfectly with Thousand’s retro bike helmets for the fall and winter months. The extra layer will keep your ears nice and toasty on your bike commute.
CHROME MERINO GAITER, $35
You wear a turtleneck... Or, you could opt for the Chrome Merino Gaiter. Either way, it’s going to keep your neck warm. The merino wool gaiter helps to regulate heat, wick moisture away and cut out funky odors. Plus, it doubles as a face mask keeping you extra safe while you bike in public spaces during the pandemic.
VELOCIO ZERO+ GLOVE, $79
If you only choose one piece of cold-weather biking gear to splurge on, this may be just the item. It’s really hard to grip the bicycle’s handlebars and brakes when your fingers are frozen. The Velocio Zero+ Glove aims to solve that for you. They’re fit for temps at just above 32 degrees Fahrenheit and are constructed with Italian soft-shell fabric that traps warm air. Even more appealing is the fact that they’re not bulky like so many other winter gloves.
RAPHA PRO TEAM LIGHTWEIGHT GORE-TEX JACKET, $295
If you live in a climate where rain is commonplace, it’s worth investing in a reliable, packable rain jacket. Both urban bike commuters and those who enjoy cycling will find the Rapha Pro Team Lightweight Gore-Tex Jacket an irresistible choice. Its SHAKEDRY™ fabric is practically magic as beads of water just glide right off keeping you dry and warm. Plus, it folds down into the size of a small square perfect to stow in a bike pannier or backpack. Find the women’s fit here.
SEALSKINZ WATERPROOF ALL WEATHER CYCLE CAP, $35
Thousand is known for head protection so we’d be remiss not to include a waterproof option for your noggin’. Sealskinz makes an All Weather Cycle Cap that fits quite nicely under one of our lightweight bicycle helmets. It’s made with three-layer construction for waterproofing, windproofing and breathability. The interior sweatband keeps sweat from running down your face while you weave your bike in and out of traffic.
SHOWERS PASS CROSSPOINT HI-VIZ CREW SOCKS, $38
Look no further for the best waterproof socks for bike riding in the rain. Showers Pass, known for making weather-proof bicycle gear, brings you the Crosspoint Hi-Viz Crew Socksideal for wet days and nights. What makes them so special you ask? The exterior layer feels like a sock. The Artex membrane middle layer keeps water out. And the interior lining is antibacterial and wicks moisture away. Your feet will thank you.
100% CAMPO ACTIVE PERFORMANCE SUNGLASSES, STARTING AT $110
Traditional cycling sunglasses are usually built for athletic performance, but might not always reflect your personal style. When you’re going for active performance while riding your bike in a less strenuous manner, the brand 100% has your back with its stylish Campo design. The HD lenses are shatterproof and offer complete UV protection. The grippy rubber nose and temple tips keep the frames from sliding while you ride. The Campo frame is available in nine different colorways and with prescription lenses if needed.
OUTDOOR VOICES THE EXERCISE DRESS, $100
Lose the layers and ride free in The Exercise Dress by Outdoor Voices. It’s truly one of the most versatile sport dresses with built-in shorts and a phone pocket making it ideal for summertime bicycle commutes and cruises. Oh, and it’s ultra comfy and breathable. You’ll never have to shy away from riding a bike in a dress ever again.
SUPERGOOP! PLAY LIP BALM SPF 30, $9.50
Riding a bike in the heat can take a toll on your skin. It’s important to wear (and reapply) sunscreen and just as equally important to treat lips to some SPF protection, too. Supergoop!’s ultra-portable PLAY Lip Balm offers SPF 30 protection against the sun’s damaging rays. The hint of mint tastes and feels refreshing.
