Well today I did it. After a month and a half of procrastinating I decided to go for a 3 mile run. It was painful, but somehow I managed to finish it.
Why didn’t I just go out and ride? Well, honestly… I’m trying to get in shape enough to not be embarassed my first day back on the bike. I also need some good cold weather gear, as I’m really not too thrilled about the idea of going out in my usual garb.

Jeff Kerkove is an mtb endurance rider that often responds to our posts. A little over a week ago he answered my plea for some advice on how to gear up for bitterly cold winter rides. Jeff has worn this gear in -15 degree weather, and he’s stll alive and kickin’. Obviously, this is good stuff. Here’s what he said he wears:

My Hands: Lobster style gloves (I use CRAFT)
My Feet: Defeet Woolie Boolies, cycling shoes, Windproof/water proof booties
My Head: Balaclava and a helmet
My Eyes: Tifosi Optics
Upper Body: Craft Base Layer, Thermal style jersey with turtle neck like feature, Windproof Jacket
Lower body: Leg warmers, and NEMA Stone shorts.
Lower Body when really cold: Nike Thermal windfront bib tights.

Jeff, you are a trooper. I complain when it’s 40 out and you’re still trailblazing when its well below zero. We all need to take a lesson from your devotion to our sport.