It was March 19th, 2022 and I was 5 weeks out from Ironman Texas.
I embarked on my first outdoor ride in 5+ months and got completely dominated, mentally and physically.
I felt completely out of my element and was struggling to hold a fraction of my expected output. I had been stacking 5+ hour rides on Zwift in my Ironman build, but suddenly I was a mess within my first 15 minutes out on the road.
What the hell is going on? Why do I feel so uncomfortable? Do I not like riding my bike anymore?
These were the questions swirling my mind as I willed my way up Hygiene Road, the long, straight false flat that headed towards Left Hand Canyon in Boulder, CO.
Then I got a flat. Not a lot was going to plan.
Suddenly, it hit me:
Riding for 5 months in perfectly controlled indoor conditions had made me soft and my ability to handle outdoor elements had vanished. Fuck.
The wind was defeating, but even short climbs felt different than on Zwift.
Flash forward to present day.
One of my goals this winter is simple: ride my bike outside!
I want to do this for 2 reasons:
I want to become a better cyclist
I want to spend as much time as I can outside
As far as performance goes, I learned my lesson. It’s unrealistic to ride inside for 5 months and then expect to be in top form out on the roads.
This is especially important if you are doing a spring Ironman/70.3!
Here’s a list of gear that’s helping me endure the elements:
All links below are affiliate links.
There are 4 main pieces of winter gear I recommend.
1. Pearl Izumi Quest Barrier Convertible Cycling Jacket
This is an A+ year round jacket. It cuts the wind and lets the layers you wear underneath keep you warm. I’m wearing 2 layers under this jacket here.
I also wear it for runs with just 1 layer underneath. It converts to a vest, but I haven’t explored that option yet.
2. Pearl Izumi Cyclone Gel Gloves
You absolutely need gloves if you’re riding in the cold.
But you don’t want to limit hand/finger function for breaking, gear shifting, etc.
Most non-cycling gloves will limit function. These won’t.
3. Buff Polar Multifunctional Headwear and Face Mask
I love how this gaiter has wool fabric around the neck and plenty of fabric to pull it over my head and cover most of my face - if necessary.
Covering skin is crucial in the cold. Especially when I’m descending and can reach 35+ mph.
This is extremely functional and useful for any kind of winter activity.
These are great for cutting the wind and preventing your toes from going numb.
Aside from these items, I’ve been wearing very “basic” winter gear.
In the photo above, I’m wearing…
wool socks
bike shorts with cheap leggings over top (I’ll probably get thicker cycling leggings soon)
2 basic thermal layers under my jacket
Ultimately, the key to winter riding is just to survive the first 20 minutes.
Once you get your heart rate up and get some blood flowing, it feels the exact same as riding on a beautiful Spring day.