As the days get shorter and the air gets sharper, many commuters start packing away their bikes and reaching for the car keys. But winter doesn’t have to put the brakes on your active commute. In fact, with the right preparation and mindset, cycling to work during the colder months can be just as enjoyable and rewarding as summertime spins.
You’ve probably heard the old saying: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing,” most famously attributed to Alfred Wainwright. It’s the perfect mantra for winter cycling. The key isn’t waiting for perfect weather; it’s gearing up properly so you can take on whatever the season throws at you.
Layer Up, Ride Warm
Investing in a few winter-specific essentials makes a world of difference:
• Thermal base layers
• Waterproof outerwear
• Gloves that keep your fingers functioning
• A buff or neck warmer
• Shoe covers to keep the toes toasty
Once you crack your personal winter kit formula, the cold loses its bite.
Visibility Is Everything
Shorter days mean darker commutes. Good lights are non-negotiable. Front and rear LEDs, reflective strips and high-vis accessories make sure you’re seen from all angles. Think of it as your moving safety shield.
Support From Employers Matters
For organisations encouraging sustainable commuting, winter is when the real impact is made. Employers and HR teams play a key role by ensuring cyclists have access to practical facilities that make year-round commuting achievable. Warm, well-maintained showers, drying areas for wet gear and secure bike parking all make a tangible difference. These aren’t just perks, they’re signals that the company genuinely supports employee wellbeing, greener travel choices and a healthier workplace culture.
Stay Steady on Slippery Days
Most winter days are perfectly rideable in Ireland, but give yourself a few extra minutes on frosty mornings. Lower tyre pressures, smooth pedalling and a bit of caution help you stay in control and enjoy the journey. For extra confidence, consult with your local bike store for a grippier tyre option. It is also worth investing in a more puncture resistant option so you can decrease your chance of getting a puncture and get you to work on time.
The Mindset Shift
Legendary Irish cyclist Sean Kelly put it best:
“To know if the weather is too bad for training, put on your gear, go training, then you know when you get back.”
It’s a brilliant reminder that the idea of winter cycling is often tougher than the reality. Once you're out there, moving and warmed up, you realise it’s not only manageable but genuinely energising.
Why Keep Riding Through Winter?
• You maintain fitness instead of hitting reset in spring
• You save money compared to driving or public transport
• You reduce your carbon footprint
• You start and finish your day with a clear head
And when spring finally arrives, you’ll already be in mid-season form.
Hubex Makes the Switch Easier
At Hubex Ireland, we help employees and employers make cycling part of their commute year-round. With flexible Cycle to Work schemes, tailored support and a growing community of everyday riders, we’re here to make winter cycling not just possible but enjoyable.
Winter doesn’t have to stop you from cycling to work. With the right gear, supportive facilities and a positive mindset, the colder season becomes just another opportunity to keep moving.
A Flexible Option: Folding Bikes
For those days when the weather feels particularly unforgiving, a folding bike can be a brilliant middle-ground solution. Being able to hop on public transport with a compact bike lets you shorten the coldest part of your commute while still enjoying the freedom and fitness benefits of cycling. It also reduces the stress of unpredictable weather, since you can adapt your route on the fly without worrying about bike storage or restrictions during busy travel times. If your employer offers Taxsaver tickets in their benefit package, you can combine it with your Bike to Work scheme for even greater savings.
