Thanks to electric bicycles, a growing number of people are experiencing the joy of car-free living for the first time. With increased convenience, many people find themselves swapping out their cars for electric bikes more frequently, opting to use them for most of their local excursions and daily tasks instead. When temperatures drop, e-bikes often lose their allure. While cycling through crisp winter mornings, I’ve found a simple solution to mitigate the unpleasant shock of cold air hitting my face: substituting a conventional bike helmet with an insulated ski helmet, which provides a warm barrier against the chill.
While I’ve yet to grasp the intricacies of navigating the Arctic’s unforgiving environment, I’ve developed a few strategies through trial and error that can help make chilly climate driving more manageable. I’ve had the misfortune of living in some of the coldest places during harsh winters, and one such location that stands out is Pittsburgh. When it came to e-biking through the freezing months, I had to bundle up like a polar bear just to survive. Despite the biting cold, I donned a full-face motorcycle helmet and inserted a scarf into its neck opening, creating a warm pocket of air around my face.
Even in relatively mild winter climates, the cold wind can still render my ears numb and floppy when I’m cycling at moderate speeds, making a good set of ear warmers a welcome addition to my winter gear.
After a year of commuting daily on her electric bike, my spouse has noticed that as the weather turned cold, her ears started freezing, causing discomfort during the ride. Between you and me, my enthusiasm was waning, but I didn’t want her to struggle during her first winter of e-biking. Wrapped in a warm coat and gloves, she prepares for the cold; yet, finding it challenging to don most ear muffs or cozy headbands beneath her typical bicycle helmet.
Let’s try something new for a start. After searching around, I discovered that wearing ski helmets is a great solution. Designed to thrive in cold temperatures, these systems are pre-insulated for optimal performance, and arrive equipped with a range of advanced security features. While skiers don’t need to worry about being “doored,” they still face a risk that’s equally as perilous: getting stuck in a tree.
Bicycle and ski helmets share several commonalities in their design and safety features, despite being intended for distinct activities. There are numerous ski helmets that incorporate MIPS technology, similar to bicycle helmets, designed to protect against both blunt force trauma and rotational trauma – the latter being just as harmful when the brain rapidly twists and turns during a crash. I chose a model with MIPS technology to enhance my safety.
I acquired a mannequin from Outside Grasp, which costs $79, but there are numerous exceptional ski helmets available for selection. This cycling helmet features innovative design elements, including vents that effectively dissipate heat and prevent overheating while pedaling; soft ear covers with strategically designed cut-outs to avoid crushing ears; a plush interior lining matched by a chin strap cover; and an adjustable size band similar to those found in most bicycle helmets.
There’s a bungee strap attached to the back that appears to be designed to secure a ski goggle strap, although our team doesn’t utilize this feature.
Given my spouse’s expertise in motorcycle gear, I’ve been seeking her input on selecting a suitable replacement, as I often rely on a revolving array of helmets stored near the entrance. Despite initial reservations about the helmet’s bulkier shape, which gave her a slightly rounded appearance, she has been delighted by its increased snugness during the winter months. While this additional structure provides enhanced insulation, it does come at the cost of a slightly larger outer shell compared to standard bike helmets.
Despite initial reservations, she seemed genuinely thrilled with her new helmet, even praising the fact that more than a dozen colors were available for selection. At $79, this helmet occupies a relatively neutral position among its peers, boasting a mid-range value that neither excites nor disappoints. While a built-in LED light strip at the front and rear would be an attractive feature for some skiers, it might not be a top priority for many enthusiasts. However, the helmet could always accommodate a detachable headlamp attachment if desired.
After conducting an experiment that yields impressive results, I’m considering investing in a quality ski helmet to ensure my safety during future winter cycling excursions. This move will not only protect me from potential head injuries but also allow me to enjoy the crisp winter air without worrying about frostbite on my ears.
