My Top Five: winter cycling tips for families and how to stay safe, seen and sweat-free

There’s something oddly relaxing about cycling in winter. The air is crisp, the roads are quieter, and the world seems to move a little slower. But while the frost may sparkle beautifully on your morning ride, it’s not without its pitfalls. To help us pedal through the chill with confidence, I spoke to Catherine Ellis of Hill & Ellis about how families can cycle happily (and safely) through the cold months.

1. Don’t overdress – you’ll regret it halfway up the hill

It’s tempting to bundle up like you’re trekking across the Arctic, but as Catherine points out, “Once you start pedalling, you’ll warm up fast.” A lightweight, windproof jacket is usually enough. Skip the extra jumper, you’ll only end up sweating and shivering later. Keep layers handy in your pannier bag instead. The first 10 minutes might be brisk, but your body will adjust quickly, and a bit of fresh-air shock is good for your immune system.

2. Gloves are not optional – they’re survival gear

Anyone who’s forgotten gloves on a frosty morning knows the agony of thawing fingertips. The solution? Windproof or water-resistant cycling gloves, not ski gloves, just something breathable that blocks the chill. Catherine recommends keeping a spare pair tucked away in your pannier. Future you will thank you when you inevitably leave the first pair on the radiator.

3. Watch for leaves, ice, and other sneaky hazards

Those glossy brown leaves that look so poetic on the ground? Treacherous. They can be as slippery as ice, especially near gutters where frost likes to linger. Try to cycle closer to the centre of the road if it’s quiet enough, the ice tends to melt there first. And if conditions are dicey, shift into a lower gear for better grip. Slow, steady, and smugly upright beats sliding into a hedge any day.

4. Avoid the winter back sweat trap

It’s not just summer rides that make you clammy. In winter, we pile on the layers, then pedal ourselves into a personal sauna. A good pannier bag saves you from the dreaded damp back. Attach it to your bike instead of wearing a backpack and you’ll not only look more seasoned but stay dry too. Your jumper will thank you.

5. Be bright, be bold, be seen

Visibility is everything in winter. Short days and low sun mean drivers often can’t see cyclists clearly, especially with oncoming headlights glaring in their eyes. Equip your bike with bright front and rear lights, and always carry spares. Reflective jackets, gilets, or even a few stylish reflective strips can make a real difference. “It’s easy to forget how invisible you are until you drive past a cyclist yourself,” Catherine says. “Reflective gear is one of the simplest ways to stay safe.”

The takeaway

Winter cycling isn’t about braving the elements like a hero in Lycra. It’s about preparation, layering smart, and keeping comfort in check. With the right kit, a bit of planning, and a dash of common sense, you’ll find those chilly morning rides become something else entirely, peaceful and invigorating.

So wrap up sensibly, embrace the season, soak up some vitamin D, and keep fit. Just remember, all things that can be a little more challenging in the winter months.