Yesterday night, after having shivered for almost two hours in a pretty wet rugby practice, I had to get on my bike and pedaled home... It was hard enough on the mental (not mentally prepared right now for that november weather!) that I *almost* had a doubt about commuting with my bike this morning as the weather was getting better. So last night it was maybe 1.5 degrees C, with a howling steady wind of 30 km/h and gusts of 50-60 km/h. Headwind of course! On top of it, freezing rain/wet snow/hail mix. Let's say that with my "legs" (you know, these half thights you can add to a cycling short), my damp rugby socks in my shoes, my little xc summer gloves, I had some visions of fuzzy clothing. But I was okay with my head (I had my little lycra toque... a bit too windy though for complete "ice cream headache" protection), and torso (softshell + underarmour type of baselayer.... great for fall rugby!). I like to pedal with my softshell, unless it is REALLY pouring rain like crazy. I prefer getting a little wet rather than too hot with the GTX shell. Booties and good gloves would have been mandatory that night! My toes and little fingers were happy to get in the shower after a big hot chocolate!

This morning, temp was almost the same (2 deg, wind of 35km/h with 45 km/h gusts, but tailwind), but no rain and even a little sun (more sun right now!). I donned my wool socks in my shoes, my fuzzy lycra thights, same gloves (hoping it won't rain again until when I get home), my softshell with light underwear, little toque... perfect! I'm just hoping the wind will lessen tonight, and snow will wait a little longer 'cause I took the speedbike with no fenders this morning :-S

Last thing: I do like to wear winter spd type shoes when it's snowing heavy and wet, and for colder, drier temps.... better than hustling with booties!