Winter Cycling - Face protecton

Having just been out in driving sleet, hail and strong winds yesterday I was wondering what other riders use to protect their face from the elements. Personally I just use Nivia Visage oil fee moisturising fluid. Its meant for women but with no scent I have not got a problem wearing it. With yesterdays weather here in England though I was wondering if I should be using more protection.

In the worst of weather, I wear a balaclava and a neck gaiter. I find this is sufficient for the lowest of temps. I also put on a little cocoa butter in the mornings (but don't let the guys know.);)

Not covering your head is a good way to get a nasty cold. I just purchased a Loki hat which acts as a face mask when I'm riding.


http://www.lokimtn.com/hats/

I tried the balaclava, and quite frankly, I find it good at -40 C or so. I use a long scarf that I place higher or lower according to how warm I am; I find it's easy to cover my face almost completely if necessary, and to pull it down without stopping.

Safety glasses are good in snow or hail.

Regards

I usually use a moisturiser and lip salve, with a polyester neck tube which can be used over my ears and nose. Its rare in the UK to need full-face protection. A balaclava would just be too warm in our winters.

I use a wool scarf, using a loose wrap, to cover most of my face when necessary.

I just use good old vaseline as a face protector, plaster it on and it protects me from the wind and rain. No problems.

Originally posted by Ouch !
I just use good old vaseline as a face protector, plaster it on and it protects me from the wind and rain. No problems.

I agree that Vaseline is the best topical product to protect your face from windburn and to some extent frostbite in windy conditions.

It won't keep your face from feeling cold, however. My suggestion is to wear a face mask. My personal preference is a silk balaklava and on really windy cold days, I put Vaseline on exposed skin like my nose, lips, and cheeks.