People across the UK are being urged to wear swimming caps underneath helmets when cycling this winter to protect against the cold. Winter in the UK runs from December until around February and is the coldest time of the year, with snow, ice, frost, rain and freezing temperatures all common at this time of the year. The Met Office has warned of unsettled weather conditions this week as winter sets in, with spells of heavy rain, strong winds and chilly conditions all on the cards over the coming days.
With conditions expected to get colder as winter gets into full swing, the Met Office is urging households to get “weather ready” and has shared advice on how to prepare for what the weather may bring – including how to protect yourself against the freezing temperatures outdoors. Up to 45% of body heat is lost through the head and neck so it is vital to take steps to stay warm during the winter months, particularly if you regularly commute on a bike. To help fend off the cold weather, people are being urged to wear a swimming cap underneath cycling helmets to help lock in heat during winter bike rides.
In its Weather Ready advice, the Met Office said: “Between 40-45% of body heat is lost through the head and neck so it’s vital to keep your head warm during winter rides.
“If neck warmers, headbands, cycling caps, balaclava and woolly hats don’t quite cut it, try adding a swimming cap underneath. This additional layer can help trap heat and keep your head from getting chilly.”
The national forecaster also recommends keeping a close eye on the forecast when preparing to hit the roads in winter and to stick to well-lit main roads where possible, as these are more likely to have been treated for icy conditions.
Cyclists should also aim to wear high visibility clothing, use bright flashing bike lights and listen carefully for oncoming traffic, as it gets darker earlier at this time of the year.
To further fend off the cold, Cycling UK recommends heating up your shoes before heading out on your bike in winter as it’ll help to keep your toes toasty and warm.
The cycling charity says the best way to do this is to put around 700g of ceramic baking beans in a jug and microwave them on high heat for about four minutes.
Once they’re warmed, pour them into some cotton ankle socks, seal the tops shut with a food bag clip and place them in your cycling shoes for a few minutes before heading out.
Katie Legg, commercial director at Cycling UK, said: “Nothing is better for our wellbeing and beating the winter blues than getting outside and reconnecting with nature.
“The rustle of leaves and the crisp clear air as you cycle on a winter’s day make all the wrapping up and prepping of your bike worth it. If you’re uncertain about how to make sure you’re winter ready, then check out Cycling UK’s website for advice and tips.”