Essentials for year-round bike commuting

• Well-maintained brakes

• Front and back lights, preferably flashing ones that motorists will notice

• Warm gloves or mittens that protect from the rain and don’t hamper braking and gear-shifting

• Warm socks, preferably wool

• Fenders

• Hat, scarf or balaclava, along with a helmet

• Light windproof jacket, preferably waterproof

• A layer or two underneath, such as a wool shirt or fleece

• Backpack or panniers to stow change of clothes and gear

• Plastic bags to cover your seat (if you park outdoors) and waterproof items in your pack/panniers

Handy items if you can afford them
• Rain pants, preferably breathable

• Breathable waterproof jacket

• Shoe covers

• Waterproof panniers to protect the laptop and other items

• A wool or other warm glove/mitten liner

• Lights that illuminate your path on dark roads

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