Find Your Comfort Zone

Dressing for frigid temperatures as a casual-clothing commuter is not the same as gearing up for a cold-weather training ride. It's unlikely you'll wear high-tech cycling apparel--sweat-wicking base layer, wool jersey and wind- and moisture-blocking tights. No, you're just a guy or gal who has a few city blocks to travel to work or who has errands to run around town. So how do you stay warm when your base layer consists of khakis, Gold Toes and a dress shirt?

Be cool
Step outside: You should feel comfortable--and even a little cool--but not warm. If you're toasty before you start coasting, you'll be hot when you're pedaling. That will cause you to sweat, and sweat makes you cold. Play it safe: Layer. It's easy to peel clothing off if you start to boil--and just as easy to slip it back on.

Add accordingly
Start with this advice, then fine-tune it to your comfort level. Cold: Wear medium-weight gloves, a wind- or waterproof jacket and an ear band. Colder: Add a hat under your helmet and choose heavier gloves. Coldest: Pull on a face mask and slip shoe covers over your tootsies--and maybe add windproof pants. Raining: Do what it takes to stay dry, such as a waterproof jacket and pants. After a few test rides in different temperatures, you'll start to figure out what to wear when.

Source: bicycling.com/ photo from treehugger.com