Commuting - Winter commuting jacket - chicago

It's going to start to get cold soon here in chicago. Already has been a bit chilly on some nights.

I don't have a jacket suitable for riding a bike. So looking for some options.

I really need something to block that cold wind. Under it I can layer up on hoodies, fleeces, etc.

I was thinking some type of gore tex soft shell. But those are extremely expensive. If anyone can point me to some kind of soft shell, gore tex or not, that would be awesome.

Was also looking at the gore tex pac lites, which seem to be more reasonably priced. Here are a few...

http://www.backcountry.com/marmot-minimalist-jacket-mens?AID=10281785&PID=1307202&SID=G234234234

http://www.backcountry.com/outdoor-research-foray-jacket-mens?AID=10281785&PID=1307202&SID=G234234234

Not sure if I am heading down the wrong path with those.

Also someone had recommended this one..

http://www.rei.com/product/794207

Thanks for your help, would love to hear from people around the midwest near the lakes, chicago, milwaukee, detroit, etc.

Thanks.

Those jackets are overkill. Des Moines has very similar winters to yours, so I'll tell you that I use an unlined shell.... no hood. Under that shell, I'll probably have a sweater and a base layer. That seems to be it. I ride down to about 0F and at the coldest temps, I might add a second baselayer or second light sweater.

However, I do wear a balaclava, face mask (a good scarf might be sufficient), two pairs wools socks and my legs have two layers at least.

I'm in Buffalo, and last winter I just ended up using my rain coat (lower end, unlined, Columbia) as my winter jacket, usually layered with a t-shirt, thermal, and wool sweater. It worked great, and I'll probably do the same this year. The base layers, and sweater kept me warm, and the jacket was enough to keep the wind/snow out.

Those jackets are overkill. Des Moines has very similar winters to yours, so I'll tell you that I use an unlined shell.... no hood. Under that shell, I'll probably have a sweater and a base layer. That seems to be it. I ride down to about 0F and at the coldest temps, I might add a second baselayer or second light sweater.

However, I do wear a balaclava, face mask (a good scarf might be sufficient), two pairs wools socks and my legs have two layers at least.

+1

The job of the outer layer is to keep the wind out. Any number of inexpensive shells can do that.

Can you give me some examples?

Something like this?

http://outlet.altrec.com/columbia/mens-ascender-softshell-45954?cm_sp=Baynote-_-DetailB-_-DetailPageAlsoWantA

I really can't tell the material, but looks almost stretchy and soft.

Or are you guys talking about like a scratchy windbreaker type material?

Thanks.

Lou at Foxwear makes an incredible wind blocking soft shell, for an extremely good price. Plus, all his goods are custom made, so you get exactly what you want. I've been extremely happy with all my Foxwear items.

Give Lou a call and discuss what you need. He's got a lot of different materials that aren't on his website.

http://www.foxwear.net/index.html

I used something like this (http://www.columbia.com/Raintech%E2%84%A2-Jacket/RM2136,default,pd.html).

Not cheap but very effective at dissipating sweat which is your #1 enemy in cold weather. It also does a good job of keeping moisture out:

http://www.endura.co.uk/UC/GetImage.aspx?file_id=1468&im=5

http://www.endura.co.uk/Product.aspx?dept_id=122&prod_id=354

I use the previous iteration of this jacket with a wool base layer and light wool vest over a long sleeve Jersey, usually a Pearl Izumi Yukon Light, for milder winter temps. When it gets seriously cold I'll use a Craft Windstopper jacket under the shell.

If you are warm blooded the above might be too much.

It doesn't help to pile on too much insulation when it gets cold. You end up sweating like a pig. Not good.

This one looks okay for the money:

http://media.rei.com/media/tt/8bc01804-4682-4417-8339-534847095dca.jpg

http://www.rei.com/product/786903

The reviews are informative too.

Ok thanks. Going to visit REI tomorrow and see what they have.

I'm in Buffalo, and last winter I just ended up using my rain coat (lower end, unlined, Columbia) as my winter jacket, usually layered with a t-shirt, thermal, and wool sweater. It worked great, and I'll probably do the same this year. The base layers, and sweater kept me warm, and the jacket was enough to keep the wind/snow out.

All the above: except, substitute J&G rain jacket, for lower end, unlined,Columbia jacket.

Agreed, no hoods.
I don't bother with a full windbreaking layer until it gets down to the low-40's. A mid-weight sweatshirt + a wind vest is sufficient right now. Anything more and I'm sweating. BTW, I'm ~1 hour north of Milwaukee right along L. Mich. Get something with reflective piping and/or logos too, if you'll be commuting during low/no light conditions.
This one converts from vest to full windbreaker:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41-KbILIPeL._AA300_.jpg

I'm in Chicago, and I wear a windblocking vest over 2 baselayers until it gets down to about freezing. A balaclava is a great addition too. If I were going to get a jacket, I'd get one like this (http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10052_10551_1009617_-1_1511001_1511000_400070) with removable sleeves.

+1

The job of the outer layer is to keep the wind out. Any number of inexpensive shells can do that.

...which ones? My comfort level in sub-freezing weather improved dramatically when I switched from a cycling jacket that appeared to have a windproof front to an "event" rain jacket (not cheap though). It's totally possible the previous jacket I had was just crappy, just asking.

I use a cycling-specfic softshell I got on clearance at the REI in Lincoln Park (last year). Haven't had to use it yet this fall.

Any soft shell will be too warm for cycling, unless you're only planning to go down hill.

Popular and cheap jacket. (http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442628997&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302692343)

For rain? i dunno.. with a dwr wind jacket like that it's fine, but important tip - you need to brush the snow off you before it melts.

http://www.mountainhardwear.com/Windstopper%C2%AE-Tech%E2%84%A2-Jacket/OM3780,default,pd.html



For the past 2 winters I have used an older version of this mountain hardwear jacket^^^ 90% of the time. Under it I put a light under-armor like base layer, with either a regular shirt or a light sweater as insulation. This type of jacket is nice because while water resistant and damn near wind proof it still breathes and lets moisture out. I also always keep a cheapo REI windbreaker with a hood that I can throw on if the weather turns nasty. My only gripe with this jacket is that the cuffs have no Velcro, major pain sometimes. Make sure your new jacket has cuff closure!!

Other set ups that I have used dependent on temperature and type of ride: windbreaker with base and insulation layers underneath, and vest with a base layer and a Northface insulation layer fleece pullover.

For everything but training rides I usually use/carry ski goggles, clear glasses, lightweight helmet balaclava, extra hat(or bandanna, depending on what is on my head when i leave house) , neoprene half face mask, base layer under pants, extra pair of socks, extra pair of either lighter weight or heavier weight gloves than what I am wearing when I leave.

This winter I will be changing up my base layer top to a Forcefield Action Shirt that has CE rated soft armor in the shoulders, elbows and chest. I have been having some shoulder issues; surgery 7 weeks ago and then a hard fall on said shoulder a couple days ago. doooohhhhh. I figure since I'm piling on clothes for winter one layer might as well be armored so I can protect my investment in my shoulder. Plus I can use it for skiing this winter as well, and motorcycles when I get around to buying one.

I seem to be in the minority, but I don't use a windbreaker unless it's really cold. If I don't have some airflow, I get sweaty -- a breathable jacket can let the sweat out, but it doesn't stop me from overheating in the first place.

These days, I usually wear a light cotton track jacket as my outer layer (it's a bit thinner than your average sweatshirt, full zipper, no hood). It partly cuts the wind, but lets enough through the keep me comfortable. I'll wear that over a wool base layer down to at least the low teens (Fahrenheit).

When it gets into the single digits, I'll put on a windbreaker with a light base layer underneath, but I do tend to get sweaty at that point. Temps that cold are uncommon here (Boston), usually just a few days each winter -- I'm not sure how bad Chicago gets.

Only for the coldest weather will I wear a softshell. I mostly use a windbreaker I got from a discount store. I do layer my clothing, but the amount depends on the temperature that day.

Lou at Foxwear makes an incredible wind blocking soft shell, for an extremely good price. Plus, all his goods are custom made, so you get exactly what you want. I've been extremely happy with all my Foxwear items.

Give Lou a call and discuss what you need. He's got a lot of different materials that aren't on his website.

http://www.foxwear.net/index.html

+1000 I am a VERY happy customer of Lou's creations. They cost a lot less than what is in the local store, AND it is made to your exact requirments. Lou will take the time to find out how a normal size fits (do you have problems with sleeves being too long, to short, etc). Where else can you get custom made clothing. It doesn't look as flashy as the fancy brand name stuff, but it works! I have the E-Vap coat and that plus a T-**** is all I wear down into the low teens. Once I get into the single digits I'll add a thin shell. I can use the coat all the way up into the low 40's. The highly venting, but wind resistant fleece is fantastic. I also had a pair of his Powder Shield Pants made for me. Those are amazing. No more cold legs. They also work fin down into the teens. For temps down to the mid 30's I have a light set of tights I wear, but from the mid 30's down to 0 I wear the Powder Shield tights. What is truly shocking is that he'll send you the stuff and then asks you to send him a check. Lou is a class act who knows what his is doing and actually providers personal attention to a customer. That is rare find in today's world.

Happy riding,
André

Neon Lime Parka with wide reflective bands, La Crosse Brand, Has a Back vent, but as its a worker's coat.
they put the zipper vent across the back to tie into a safety harness, worn under the coat.
but it works to let excess heat out of , while cycling..

If you are pressing at all when you ride, you'll want plenty of ventilation. I think a fleece or two provides this. I start my commute in a windproof shell when it gets below 30, but, that's because a good chunk of my first 2 miles are downhill. As soon as I hit the flats/uphills, the shell is off or at least unzipped before I become a sweaty mess.

You definitely have more wind than I, but, not much in the way of hills. I think you should experiment with varying layers of fleece. Make sure the outer most is zippered and not a pullover so you have some temp control. As for big $$$$$ waterproof stuff, no thanks. When it's real cold and wet, I wear a different outter garment. It's called a '91 accord. :)

I'm in southern Michigan, so exactly the same weather. I use a waterproof/breathable rain jacket from J&G cyclewear (www.bicycleclothing.com), and put various layers of clothing on underneath it. I have not yet found the conditions that this was not suitable for, though so far I've only cycled down to -25*F.

BTW, Meijer has some blaze orange thinsulate hunting gloves that they put on sale in October/November every year (deer hunting season). They cost like $5 or $10 (depending on whether they're on clearance or not) and they're extremely warm and weatherproof. They're actually too warm lots of the time but I use them when the weather drops below 0*F. Above that I use either Kohl's waterproof/windproof/breathable gloves (0*F up to about 25*F) or just some fleece gloves (25 up to perhaps 40*F). Above 40 I just use half finger gloves like the rest of the summer.

Thanks all. Keep them coming if you can :)

I'm totally down with that Lou guy, but the only problem is I am very picky with clothing. I like looser clothing, plus with something like this will need it loose enough to be able to layer under it. Need to try it on before I buy it. Some brands don't feel right no matter what size I try out. I do want to try him out though, what I will probably do is find something that fits me well and then send him the measurements.

Didn't get a chance to get to REI today. It's supposed to be nice, but rainy this week. Maybe later in the week or on the weekend.

Like others, I overheat pretty easily. I have two jackets for winter, a Pearl Izumi Gavia jacket (not made any more) and Novaro Express Rain Jacket. I use the rain jacket if its raining or snowing.

I've found both of these to be warm enough with a single base layer down to -10F. Of course, I need to wear the right hat, gloves, tights etc. or I get cold.

Paul

...which ones? My comfort level in sub-freezing weather improved dramatically when I switched from a cycling jacket that appeared to have a windproof front to an "event" rain jacket (not cheap though). It's totally possible the previous jacket I had was just crappy, just asking.

I'm probably the wrong person to ask. The 3 shells I've used for winter commuting have come from the Salvation Army store. ;)

One was the outer layer from what was once a multi-part Columbia jacket. I accidentally left that somewhere on a day that had warmed enough that I didn't need it.

The two I have now are a running jacket from "The Running Room" and a warm-up jacket from a high school track team. The warm-up jacket I tend not to wear because it has the name "Campell" embroidered on the sleeve. I get tired of people either assuming my name is Campbell or asking me whose jacket it really is. ;)

They all worked fine though I should probably qualify that by saying that my torso is a part of my body that I have little difficulty keeping warm. All of the jackets had a flap under the zipper to keep the wind from blowing through and all have a drawstring at the bottom. That's pretty much all I require in a shell. Under that I have a "base layer" and a "warmth layer". It's worked well for me. If I wanted to get by with only two layers I'd need a better jacket.

So has been getting quite chilly late at night. And today was chilly and rainy with serious wind. Stopped off at REI before work and picked up a jacket. Ended up getting this one..

http://marmot.com/products/leadville_jacket?p=216,222,72

On the sale rack from $150 marked down to $74 so I grabbed it.

Wore it right out the store and rode to work. Felt no wind, but felt heat building up inside of me fast. I think it was because of the hoodie I was wearing under it. I need to get some better under layers now.

Nice grab! More than adequate. Love Marmot. The windshirt especially.

I was looking at those too. Pretty sure it was those, they are like a super soft and fluffy coat, almost like a thin down. Really comfortable, but wasn't sure since the material was so different than all the jackets I was reading about.

Another question - What about gloves? Was looking at gloves there. Various lobster type ones, another one that claimed to be a "wind blocker glove", and then another really cool lobster glove that has a tuck away cover that turns into a mitten. They are all like $40 to $70 range. Are they worth it?

Would never consider spending that much on gloves until now. My whole life I have been using the $2 stretch gloves from gas stations.

Like this, the reviews seem good. Not cheap, and would be scared to loose them. But keeping your hands warm is pretty important it seems.

http://www.rei.com/product/788067

These are much cheaper, but probably not that good.

http://www.rei.com/product/803637

Thanks.

Are gloves like that worth it? Very much so if that's what it takes to keep your fingers from turning blue and maybe even falling off from frostbike if you bike in weather that cold.

The only real way to know how your hands will react to the cold is to buy some gloves, and if they're not warm enough, buy something warmer.

FWIW, "something warmer" can be something like these:

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/p/,1778X_Terramar-Glove-Liners-Silk-For-Men-and-Women-.html

One or two pair of those under lighter-weight gloves can work wonders. FWIW, I was wearing two pair of those liners under a pair of Lous Garneau lobster gloves when cycling in very windy 12F weather last winter.

One doesn't need a hood but a baclava or watch cap is sufficient for the head on cold, windy days to prevent heat loss from the face/head.

A light pair of gloves in cold weather to keep the hands from going numb.

A liner jacket or windshirt is good enough down to the 30s. Below that, a softshell can be thrown on for added warmth.

A hardshell is only when it rains or snows hard.

The key is layering and knowing when to add and remove pieces of winter clothing.

For gloves, I wear:
Crochet backed, leather palmed gloves from HOT down to about 35*F
Light fleece gloves down to about 20*F (< $10 at Kohls and wherever)
Windproof/weatherproof medium weight gloves down to about 5*F ($10 at Kohls)
Blaze orange thinsulate hunting gloves from 5*F down to COLD (-25*F is the coldest so far).

The blaze orange are on sale at local megamarts for $10 right now (deer hunting season). They're essentially cheap-a$$ ski gloves. They're toasty warm down to real cold.

YMMV though. Some people have different levels of circulation to their fingers particularly in the cold, and I've noticed that I'm comfortable in lighter gloves than some others. Heck, I have friends who wear full gloves and flannel lined jeans at 50*F.

Are gloves like that worth it? Very much so if that's what it takes to keep your fingers from turning blue and maybe even falling off from frostbike if you bike in weather that cold.

The only real way to know how your hands will react to the cold is to buy some gloves, and if they're not warm enough, buy something warmer.

<SNIP>.

My 1st Winter I started off with a cheapy pair of full fingered cycling gloves I bought at Target. I still have those and they work great down to the low 40's. Once it gets colder than that I need a "real" set of gloves. Once it got colder I started to wear an old pair of Kombi Goretex Ski gloves that I've had for a long time. It kept my hands warm, but the problem is that I'd get very sweaty/clammy hands. On longer rides I'd be fine till I stopped and then had to start up again a few hours later... then I'd have very moist gloves... yuck.

The solution was to get a set of "Poggies." Specifically I got a set of Climmit from SideTrak, sadly I can't find them on the web right now, I guess they may have closed shop. Too bad as they were excellent quality construction and very reasonably prices. The nice thing is that they keep your hand warm AND dry. In most winter weather all I need is the cheapy full fingered golves. Since there is room around your hands, you don't get the sweaty hand issues. For riding on those Fall and Spring days when I don't need the Poggies yet, I have a pair of PI Cyclones. These are claimed to be full Winter Gloves. They work find right to around Freezing, but in all fairness, once the temperature drops in the the 20's your hands will be frozen. One thing I do love about the Cyclones is that they are reasonably water resistant, but still breath well. Therefore these are excellent for those cold rainy Fall days, the gloves do eventually soack through, but it takes quire some time. My normal gloves turn my hands into wet cold lumps in a matter of minutes.

For head gear I have a breathable Beanie type cap that keeps the wind off my forehead and ears, but lets sweat pass through it. I found it in a local Ski shop for wearing under a ski helmet. Cost around $20. I use that almost the entire winter. For truly cold weather (below 15F) I'll put on a balacava to give greater protection of my neck, and sides of my face. That only happens a a few days here or there. The had gets me through most of the Winter.

Happy riding,
André

+1 for no hood, waterproof shell. my hood rolls up into the collar so i can put it on if forced to walk in the rest of the way.

layers underneath, no cotton!

I'm not as concerned about ventilation, because the extra sweating helps burn more calories :)

Here's my 2 cents as a year round Chicago commuter. When it's cold I wear a smartwool tshirt and an old Marmot windstopper fleece. You don't need anything more until it gets below 15 degrees because your core will warm up (I'm often venting my fleece when its 20 degrees!). When it gets below 10-15 degrees I will add a wool sweater I bought for $2 at Salvation Army. (I note here that I wear that sweater with my wool t-shirt when the weather is between 30-40 and skip the fleece altogether).

I think the key is keeping the extremities warm. I wear midweight Pearl Izumi gloves until it gets below 35, but then I switch to the lobster-style gloves. I wear a balaclava and ski helmet when it goes below freezing. I wear one pair of socks, one pair of cycling tights, and a pair of knickers almost exclusively from mid-November to March; regulating the lower half of the body is pretty easy and I don't ever find my legs freezing or overheating.

Bottom line - I bet that old fleece in your closet and a wool t-shirt will carry you through most of a Chicago winter. When it gets REALLY cold just add a wool sweater. Spend the money on good gloves.