Yesterday, the temperatures got down into the teens, so of course hating the cold while I ride like I do, I just had to get out.
The main goal of the ride was to see how I could handle it. I think I’ve cracked the code, actually. You see, I got new shoes — and warm feet are half the battle when it comes to riding in the cold.
When I used to ride with clipless pedals, I had shoe covers. Those, along with plastic bags over my socks, were passable. Then I changed to flat pedals, and so I ditched the covers…which were pretty worn out anyway. Plastic bags helped a bit, but my feet were still freezing. A couple of years ago, I figured it out though — toe warmers. I orders a couple dozen, and they worked great. Unfortunately, I found out that you just can’t count on companies to put out the same quality every time, and I’ve never found good toe warmers since that first season with them. I got a larger batch the next year and they barely kept my feet tepid. Same with this year’s batch. They work for a short time, then the best they do is act as a bit of insulation. When I take off my shoes after three hours on the road, they’re room temp, which, for being outside in my shoes for so long, is better than nothing, but I sure would like my toes to be toasty.
The other night, Micha was watching her home shopping and a pair of men’s shoes came on. They were cheap, but insulated, so I decided, “Why not?” I got them, and they had their first test yesterday. And it was a success. The temps did get into the 30s by the end of the ride, but overall, quite comfortable. With the toe warmers, my feet felt like they were even sweating a little. The only drawback, I guess, was that the soles are a little thicker with a pattern for traction, so I felt like my seat was too low. I’m going to have to make adjustments for the winter season I guess.
One surprise on the way — as I was approaching an area where there was a new rail line and station going in, I got a message from Albert, who was out on his bike at that very station. After a few attempt over he next hour or so, it turns out he was just down the road from me and we were able to meet up to ride for a while together. Although I’ve lost a favorite riding partner (Joon flew out today), I’m looking forward to this upcoming season. Should be a lot of fun…
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