Cycling in cold weather - Military Health, military health and wellness, military physical fitness - Military Times

Cycling in cold weather

Snow doesn’t mean cyclists have to stow their wheels for the winter.

Army Sgt. Nikhil Shetty, an optometry tech in Ansbach, Germany, rides his mountain bike year-round.

“It's not for competition, just for fitness and the enjoyment I get from the looks on people’s faces as I ride by in the snow and ice,” says Shetty, who invested in spiked tires for safety on slick roads. “I allow about 30 additional minutes for my winter commute.”

Shetty makes use of his standard issue gear, plus a few extra pieces, to keep him warm through the long German winters.

“I wear the Army-issue [SPEARS] top for warmth, with a cycling jersey on top and a basic cycling wind/waterproof jacket.” He prefers heavy leather gloves for winter cycling.

“I definitely wear a balaclava on my head,” says Shetty. Not only will a balaclava keep you warm and protect your face, it also warms the outside air before it reaches your lungs to prevent the shock of inhaling icy, cold air.

Shetty also invested in spiked tires for safer winter cycling.

“They make all the difference in staying upright through slippery conditions, but when I do fall, I carry my uniform and hygiene kit in a backpack, and they provide a good cushion!”