pakole

Ok, I just got done shopping for my winter clothes for my first winter riding. Please tell me if I miss anything.
I brought:
a jacket windproof, and water resistant
a pair cool weather tights
a thermal control kit for my camel bak
a pair of cool weather socks
a pair of waterproof cool weather shoe covers
a balvera, and a pari of water proof winter gloves.

Thanks for your input

Walkafire

Might wanna get some kind of Base for your top.
And a pair of Waterproof Rain Pants.
Ear muffs or Headband to cover the ears more.
Wet weather/Water resistant sock?
Helmet Cover? (I love mine)

Remember to layer your clothes.
Winters can be brutal if you get a chill.

kuan

Looks pretty OK for 40-50F riding. Are you planning to ride in the snow? I would junk the shoe covers and go with platform pedals and regular waterproof insulated hiking boots, gaiters if necessary. I doubt the thermal control kit for the camelbak is necessary if you're riding in above freezing.

Last night it was 45F and I wore long sleeve baselayer, Cannnondale shell, helmet, light PI ear protectors, PI thermafleece tights, insulated gloves, coolmax socks and regular shoes. Effort level was light to moderate. I was plenty toasty.

pakole

I have abase layer for my top.
Is it better to get a water proof pants? I have a pair of water resistant pants, but I'll get the water-proof if needed.
Should I get an earmuff or Headband and helment cover, or an earmuff, headband, or helment cover?
Do I need water proof socks with waterproof shoe covers?

I appericate you answering my question. I just want to make sure I have everything that I need to take on the winter. Thanks.

pakole

What should I change for 30-40 F riding? It occasionally gets to 20s F. I do plan on riding through snow. I heard people were successful riding with their cleats through the winter and riding in 10s F weather, which thankfully does not occur here in the daytime.
Thanks

Walkafire

pakole: the advise I can give is: You will learn over time what you need.

Here are a few tips for ya...

Sand and Ice: Start braking early to allow for the increased stopping distance on slick roads. Take this opportunity to practice your cornering technique by braking early and coasting through the turn - just don't practice this at stop signs.

Debris in the Bike Lane: This time of year bike lanes are particularly laden with debris plowed off the roadway. Try using additional protection against flats and consider riding in the lane of traffic where the bike lane is unsafe. Report such conditions to the local street maintenance department.

Be Visible: Motorists must deal with fogged windows, poor visibility, and glare. Make sure they see you by wearing bright, reflective clothing and even using lights on overcast days. Good headlights and flashing taillights are a must for night-time or early morning riding.

Temperature: As any seasoned commuter will tell you, dress in layers. Start with a layer next to your skin that wicks moisture away, then go with an insulating layer such as fleece or a heavier jersey. On the outside use a shell to block the wind. To keep your hands and feet warm, wear long finger gloves and shoe covers - keeping your arms and legs warm help too. One common problem is to sweat and then get cold, so shed layers as you warm up.

Drink Up: You may not feel thirsty, but when you see your breath, that's water leaving your body. When it's really chilly out, some riders even start with warm water in their bottles - never mind the plastic taste.