It is that time of year, where the wonderful weather we were having has changed into the weather we’ve been dreading. It is time to put those mesh and textile jackets and pants into storage and bring out the warmer winter gear. Hopefully you have already prepared for the change in seasons and either purchased appropriate gear or nik waxed your gear from last year before storing it.
I have a few tricks I like and hope you will use them to keep you warm this winter. I don’t like bulky boot socks so I wear wool socks that are sold in most ski stores, locally there is Sturtevant’s and Ski Mart. I particularly like smart wool as they are thin and warm when worn under those waterproof riding boots you should be wearing now. I also like to wear a thin layer of warm long underwear, top and bottom, followed by my riding gear over that. If it is really cold that morning, then I will charge my Ansai heated vest and have it ready to go to wear as the layer between my top and my jacket. If you are unfamiliar with this vest, it is fantastic. You don’t need to plug it into your bike, it is a small battery pack you charge the night before and fits in a pocket of the vest. You pick the setting you want and off you go, it stays charged for several hours, but turn it off to reserve battery power for when you actually need it while riding. This eliminates the cost of having to purchase heated gear if you want a quick fix. Get nice fitted glove liners to help retain heat and also get proper winter riding gloves, trust me there is nothing worse than not being able to feel your fingers.
My new favorite is the Diva-do, not only does it keep your hair from the all too common helmet head, but it also keeps your head and ears warm, an added plus. I also love the Neck-it, I use this in place of the vest on days when it is not so cold outside. It is fashionable, cute and very warm for those more moderate days.
Stay warm and look fabulous…
Vixens Ride!
Carol T. Carpenter
