5 Best Jackets For Winter Bike Riders

December 27, 2022

Winter weather can make for an icy and dangerous bike ride, no matter how experienced you are. When temperatures dip and the snow starts to pile up, it’s important that you have the proper clothing to keep you warm and safe.

That’s why today we’re going to look at five of the best jackets for winter bike riders. Whether you’re a commuter, a weekend warrior, or an avid cyclist looking for a way to stay warm on your next adventure, these jackets will help keep you safe and comfortable even in freezing temperatures. Read on to learn more!

The Best Winter Jackets for Bike Riders

With all of that in mind, here are our picks for the best winter jackets for bike riders:

1. The North Face ThermoBall Eco Jacket: This jacket is made with recycled materials and has excellent insulation thanks to its ThermoBall technology. It's also very lightweight and packable, making it ideal for carrying on your bike.

2. Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody: This jacket is made with 100% recycled materials and is filled with 800-fill down for exceptional warmth. It's also very compressible, so it's easy to carry on your bike.

3. REI Co-op Magma 850 Down Hooded Jacket: This jacket uses 850-fill goose down for exceptional warmth, and it has a waterproof shell to protect you from the elements. It's also breathable and has pit zips for ventilation, making it perfect for strenuous rides.
Free photo motor biker wears shearling denim jacket and black blank henley shirt, holds vintage beige motorcycle helmet, looking down, isolated in center of white brick wall

Different Types of Winter Jackets

When it comes to choosing the best winter jacket for bike riding, there are a few different types to consider. The most important factor is usually insulation, but other features like wind and water resistance can also be important, depending on your climate. Here are a few different types of jackets to consider:

Down Jackets: Down jackets are one of the best options for insulation, since they trap heat very well. They are also lightweight and compressible, making them easy to pack away when not in use. However, they can be more expensive than other types of jackets, and they don’t always hold up well in wet weather.

Fleece Jackets: Fleece is a great option for insulation because it traps heat well and is very affordable. It’s also comfortable and lightweight, making it a good choice for layering under another jacket. However, fleece doesn’t hold up well in wet weather and can start to smell if you sweat in it too much.

Softshell Jackets: Softshell jackets are made from a water-resistant material that’s also breathable, making them a good choice for bike riding in wet or snow conditions. They usually have some kind of insulation as well, though not as much as a down or fleece jacket. Softshell jackets are also typically more expensive than other types of jackets.

Winter Jacket Care and Maintenance

Assuming you are taking care of a jacket made for winter riding, here are some tips to keep it in good condition:

-Wash your jacket regularly. Even if you don't think it's dirty, sweat and body oils will break down the fabric over time. Use a mild soap and hang to dry.

-If your jacket has a waterproof or water-resistant coating, be sure to re-apply it regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will help keep the fabric from deteriorating.

Free photo woman in a jacket on an electric scooter in an autumn park.

-If your jacket has removable insulation, wash it separately from the shell. Insulation can often shrink or lose its loft (fluffiness) when washed, so it's best to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

-Store your jacket in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid storing it in plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause mildew.

Conclusion

Winter bike riders need to pay extra attention to the type of jacket they choose. The right jacket should protect you from the elements while still allowing you to move freely and be comfortable when riding. We've taken a look at five of the best jackets for winter bike riding, each designed with specific features in mind.

Whether you're looking for something lightweight and breathable or warm and waterproof, there's an option here that will suit your needs perfectly. So don't wait any longer—choose your favorite jacket today and enjoy all the benefits that cycling in cold weather has to offer!

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