Picture this: it’s a rainy Sunday morning, and you’re gearing up for the first Chain Gang Cyclists gravel ride and brunch of the season. As you arrive at Richmond Park, your fellow cyclists can’t help but notice your unique choice of footwear.
Decked out in a pair of fantastic cycling overshoes from British company Spatz Wear, you’re ready to tackle the elements with confidence. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of investing in cycling overshoes or bike shoe covers and how they can make your ride more enjoyable, even in the most challenging weather conditions.
The Magic of Cycling Overshoes
At first glance, these cycling overshoes might look like boots, but they’re actually neoprene shoe covers that slide over your regular Lake MX 332 LITE cycling shoes. Designed to protect both your shoes and your shins from road spray, mud, and even snow (for those of us who are Canadian!), these handy bike shoe covers work to keep your feet warm and dry throughout your ride.
If you’re like me, you know that cold and wet fingers and feet can quickly turn an enjoyable ride into a miserable experience. So, do cycling overshoes really make a difference? The answer is a resounding yes! After a ride, simply give your overshoes a quick hose down, and you’ll find that your shoes underneath are clean and dry—saving you precious time and effort on post-ride clean-up.
While it might take a bit of patience to put these overshoes on, the GRAVL models from Spatz come with a handy zipper to make the process easier. Keep in mind that if the weather isn’t cold enough, your feet might get too warm and sweaty, but as long as you’re wearing merino wool socks and keep moving, the neoprene material should help keep your feet warm and comfortable.
How Cycling Overshoes Compare to Winter Shoes and Boots
You might be wondering why you should bother with cycling overshoes when there are winter shoes and boots available, like those from Lake. The simple answer is versatility and convenience. When you’re on the road, the last thing you want is to carry an extra pair of bulky footwear.
If you’re planning to ride for weeks in cold, rainy, or snowy conditions, winter shoes or boots might be a better option. However, for rides in areas like Kenya, mainland Europe, and the UK, where the weather is “generally” dry and warm, cycling overshoes offer a practical and lightweight solution for those unexpected cold and wet days.
Conclusion: No More Excuses for Skipping Rides
In summary, cycling overshoes, like the Spatz, are an excellent investment for cyclists looking to keep their feet warm and dry during unpredictable weather conditions. By eliminating the need for additional footwear and providing an effective barrier against the elements, these bike shoe covers make it easier than ever to get out and ride, no matter the forecast.
So, the next time you’re tempted to skip a ride because of less-than-ideal weather, remember that cycling overshoes can be your secret weapon for conquering the elements with ease. Happy riding!