Cold weather has always been a challenge in mountain biking because you have to start cold then warm up to break a sweat, making yourself wet. When you travel in this kind of situation, the combination of wet skin and the windchill will be more chilling.
There are some cold weather clothing below that will minimize your bone chilling experience when you ride in the winter season.
When you ride in a cold temperature, the feet are them most exposed part of your anatomy. Force from pedaling will tend to cut off the circulaton to your toes and this can put you at a risk of frostbite. You must wear neoprene booties. It will zip over your shoes and has a pattern in the sole where you can cut out a piece for cleats.
Wear a gloves when riding during winter. There are some manufacturer that makes “lobster gloves”, a hybrid glove that seperate your index finger and thumb from the rest of your hand and these are warmer than regular gloves. This gloves will not affect your riding because the index finger is free and will allow you to operate shifting and brake levers. It is also advisable that you bring along a pair of lightweight glove liner to protect your hand from cold.
Wraparound glasses provides you a maximum protection from the wind, cold and debris while riding.
Try to wear lightweight socks as this could make your feet warm without bulk. If you still need some extra layer, try silk ski sock, it is very warm and extra lightweight. Wearing heavy socks will make your shoes tight, cut off the circulation and even make your feet cold.
Polypropylene underwear is lightweight and best for colder weather.
Wear a wind protection, you will be able to vent perpiration while also protecting yourself from windchill. Choose a pants and a jacket based on durability, breathing and price.
Use a helmet with fleece liner during winter riding because it is designed to protect your head and ears from cold temperature. Your head is very important because you lose 50 percent of your body heat through your head.