As the temperature drops, there’s no shortage of kit required to help you stay warm and dry through winter, whether you’re looking to refresh your cycling wardrobe or digging your cold weather kit out of storage for the next few months.
Bib tights, jackets, gloves… you name it, you’re going to need it if you have any intention of riding through winter in comfort.
For many riders, overshoes will be near the top of that list. There’s nothing worse than cold, wet feet on a winter ride and overshoes (essentially covers which you pull over your shoes) will provide a barrier from the elements.
But there’s also a growing range of winter-specific shoes on the market. While regular cycling shoes are generally designed for warm weather, with plenty of vents to let cold air and water in when the conditions are less kind, winter boots are built for the job in hand. That, most likely, means a thermal lining to stay warm and a water resistant membrane to help keep your feet dry.
While we can’t guarantee a winter boot will keep your feet dry in all weathers (the ankle cuff offers a potential entry route for water in heavy rain), they will put up a stern fight against the conditions, whether that’s biting cold or a winter storm. They also stop the faff of pulling overshoes on and off before and after a ride.
So if you’re looking for new winter cycling shoes, where should you start looking? Read on for our choice of six of the best…