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-   -   Headwear (https://www.bikeforums.net/commuting/979652-headwear.html)

MMACH 5 11-03-14 02:11 PM


Originally Posted by bmthom.gis (Post 17273238)
How does the Buff work for you? I have been thinking about getting one. It isn't exactly a big investment or anything, I just haven't been ass*d to do it yet

I got a thin one and used it for the first time, this morning. I only needed it for the first half of my commute. I kind of like it. As it gets cooler, I'll get a better handle on how much I like it (although, I've got two surgeries between now the end of the year so I'll not be cycle commuting much until, probably March).

augsburg 11-03-14 02:13 PM


Originally Posted by fotooutdoors (Post 17269979)
Unless it is really cold and windy (like 0F and calm or 10F and really windy), I just wear a fleece earband. I tend to sweat too much (which in winter is your enemy) if I wear anything more. The band keeps my forehead and ears warm which are the areas that get cold on my head before anything else. FWIW, I have long hair, which acts as a windbreak under the helmet (just a standard "summer" helmet, btw).

When it starts heading into single digits and below, I may throw on my ski helmet (less venting), add a silkweight balaclava, or a neck gaiter. It is all a balance of temperature, wind, and heat production. I tend towards high in the last department, so my system may not work for you. But, if you think of the balance between wind blocking and insulation (they are different), then you should be able to arrive at a good solution.

I totally agree. A fleece headband worn with my helmet is best for me down to about 20 degrees F. Keeps my ears and forehead warm. Otherwise I will sweat too much. BTW, unlike fotooutdoors, I have shortish hair, and the headband is still plenty.

bmthom.gis 11-03-14 02:14 PM

^Ah. I hope they go well! They make some cold weather ones, too if you like how the thin one works.

slcbob 11-03-14 02:25 PM

For the very cold, I'll go to a merino wool cap or fleece ear bands. Not there yet here.

I'm surprised what little support I see for helmet covers. The external, big shower cap-like ones. I love mine. I start off my ride with it and tit really takes the edge of the triple whammy cold start I have in the early morning -- coldest part of the day, body is cold, and I start with a long slight downhill so I've good lots of speed. Then once I'm working hard it is easy to pull off and stuff in a pocket and get some good ventilation to avoid overheating.

I just added a helmet light. I really like it but I'm bitter that it won't play well with my helmet cover.

MMACH 5 11-03-14 02:44 PM


Originally Posted by bmthom.gis (Post 17273380)
^Ah. I hope they go well! They make some cold weather ones, too if you like how the thin one works.

Thank you. And yes. I could absolutely see a wool Buff being a big player in winter camping.

downwinded 11-03-14 06:46 PM

Another vote for the thin headband. I just got one and love it. I have been using a skullcap when my ears started to get cold but, it gets hot. The headband is going to work much better, at least down into the 30 something degree range. Balaclava for the low 30's and below.

beastonabike 11-03-14 06:55 PM

Just a helmet until the weather drops to at least below -2C. Like many others repsonding I am not a fan of overheating through my head. Irritates the hell out of me. Now if it is 1C and pouring rain I will wear a thin poly blen beanie under my helmet on occasion.

Dave

TransitBiker 11-04-14 04:19 AM


Originally Posted by Colorado Kid (Post 17268687)
Now that it's getting colder, what type of headwear are you using under your helmet?

http://www.bikeforums.net/commuting/...nter-gear.html

- Andy

fotooutdoors 11-06-14 08:08 PM

Just a follow-up on my initial notes. In addition to an ear band, I always have something over my eyes. Down to the mid 20's (F) or so, it is sunglasses or safety glasses. Below that, it is clear ski goggles. Goggles add appreciable warmth by blocking wind, and reduce how often I cry. Regardless, I try to keep my neck uncovered.

Engineer 11-06-14 08:38 PM

I use a Bern helmet with a winter kit down to 40 F. Add a balaclava after that.

jwarner 11-06-14 09:59 PM

Down to about 30F, just a cycling cap.
30F to 10F, ultra thin merino skull cap
10F to 0F, Ibex wool cycling cap with Buff pulled over back of neck and ears Aunt Jemima style.
0F to -20F, thick wool skull cap
Below that, my ski helmet with a buff over my chin, or possibly a thin balaclava

Dave Cutter 11-06-14 10:13 PM

In preparation for winter I dug through and readied my assortment of balaclavas and mouth covers just the other day. This season I am trying (the new?) 3M disposable nose/mouth covers.

In warmer weather I still cover my bald head with a do-rag under my helmet.

TransitBiker 11-07-14 11:10 AM


Originally Posted by Colorado Kid (Post 17268687)
Now that it's getting colder, what type of headwear are you using under your helmet?

http://www.bikeforums.net/commuting/...nter-gear.html

- Andy

MMACH 5 11-07-14 10:59 PM

The most surprising winter accessory for me is chapstick. The first time I used it while riding, I was stunned at what a difference in comfort it made. Ever since, I keep it in my top tube bag from November through February.

TransitBiker 11-08-14 03:09 AM


Originally Posted by MMACH 5 (Post 17286923)
The most surprising winter accessory for me is chapstick. The first time I used it while riding, I was stunned at what a difference in comfort it made. Ever since, I keep it in my top tube bag from November through February.

I tend to cover my mouth with my headliner or a dust mask with holes poked into it for proper breathability. Keeps air going in at a tolerable temp and keeps large part of what otherwise would be exposed skin warm.

- Andy


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