We know what you’re thinking. “Why are we talking about alternative transport methods in a time of year when even the car is too cold?” – the answer is simple. Climate change isn’t a seasonal issue, so we shouldn’t treat sustainability like a seasonal solution. While it’s easier to walk to work in the summer, heading out in the winter just requires a few more layers and preparation. So in this blog, we’re going to talk about how you can use active travel in the colder months and how best to prepare for it.
Cycling to work
Some items are essential all year round, such as a helmet. But it’s not as though you can pop a bobble hat over in order to keep your head warm when it gets chilly. So when it comes to kit you probably want to invest in a thinner headband. It’s not about keeping your head warm as you’ll get warm from the cycling, it’s about keeping the wind chill off your ears without compromising your hearing.
The same can be said for your body. Don’t put on thick layers to cycle as you’ll generate heat as you cycle. Instead, look for windbreaker jackets. They’re thinner but typically more rigid. Things like waterproof jackets are often windproof as well. If you don’t want to invest in a jacket as you’re new to cycling commutes, we’ve seen plenty of people in make shift ones using bin liners. That’s right, bin liners! They act the same as a windbreaker. Of course, they’re much thinner so you might need a light jacket underneath, but they certainly do the job!
Walking to work
In the summer months, you can stroll to work in whatever you fancy, but we understand the colder months are different. Unlike cycling, you’ll want to layer up for your walk. Moving a slower pace won’t generate as much heat. So grab a jacket and a coat, especially that bobble hat and maybe a scarf and gloves. Whatever it takes to stay warm.
Remember, you don’t want to leave the house cold. If you put on all your layers in your home and think ‘I feel warm’ – you’re probably at the right temperature for a walking commute. The biggest thing you need to consider for a walking commute is your footwear.
Plenty of people walk to work but over a shorter distance, for us who are looking to ditch vehicles in order to walk, suitable shoes are essential. If you’re not wearing comfortable trainers or walking boots, you’re likely to irritate your feet and stop the green habit of walking to work. Of course, be sure to take care if there’s ice on the ground.
Using public transport in winter months
It’s not quite active travel, but we understand that for some of us – cycling and walking to the office in the winter just isn’t suitable. Although there is still the option to walk to and from bus/train stations, in which case the previous guidance for suitable shoes should be considered.
But during the colder months, public transport may be the greenest option you have for sustainable travel. Use it where you can – it’s a far better option than jumping in your car. By sharing the carbon footprint of your journey with multiple strangers, there’s a significant reduction to be made. The bus/train will make it’s journey regardless of your presence, you may as well be on the vehicle in order to not create more of a carbon footprint with your car.
We know that active travel in the winter months isn’t pleasant. But we hope that by looking at this blog, you feel encouraged to travel sustainably no matter what the weather is. It’s not a case of it being too cold, it’s a case of poor preparation. Good luck, and we look forward to reading about your journey’s on the community blog!
