Here’s some reasons they may be the weapon missing from your autumn and winter arsenal…
An alternative to Winter Boots
Don’t have overshoes yet? They’re a great alternative to winter boots and can save some space in your shoe rack as well as overall riding weight. Another positive is they can be considerably cheaper than a brand new pair of cycling boots or waterproof shoes. Most overshoes are very easy to clean and only require a quick soak and scrub post ride. Plus, no more airing out your soaked shoes or putting up with musty, damp shoe odours!
Protection from the Elements
Shielding your feet from the elements is essential. As the seasons change and the weather becomes less bike friendly, overshoes act as a barrier against rain, wind, and the chilly temperatures.
Pictured Above: Spatz Pro Stealth Overshoes, designed as a two-part layering system that works in perfect harmony with the ProToez Toe Warmers. When worn together, the overshoes and toe warmers cleverly designed silicone seals integrate to create a virtually impenetrable moisture barrier, offering unparalleled insulation for cycling in challenging conditions.
Thermal Insulation
Overshoes come in various materials, most of which are designed to provide thermal insulation. Neoprene overshoes, for example, trap heat and create an additional layer of warmth around your feet. This is especially valuable in the autumn and winter when cold feet can quickly turn a pleasant ride into a very uncomfortable one. So don’t get caught out cold!
Pictured Above: Velotoze Neoprene Overshoes, designed to keep your feet warm and dry in cold, winter weather. Waterproof, windproof performance neoprene protects your feet and shoes from the elements. Patented design uses no zippers and fastens with reinforced straps under your shoe. Kevlar toe pad protects the shoe cover from wear and tear.
Improved Aerodynamics
Do you invest in sleek, aerodynamic clothing and gear to maximize your performance? Overshoes can contribute to this by reducing air resistance around your cycling shoes. Their snug fit and smooth surface can help you cut through the wind more efficiently, which can make a difference in your speed and energy conservation, particularly during races and long rides.
What sets the Pro Stealth Overshoes (pictured above) apart is the use of cutting-edge materials never before seen in cycling applications, prioritising toughness, resilience, comfort, and longevity, while also excelling in warmth, water resistance, and aerodynamics.
Longevity of Cycling Shoes
A decent pair of cycling shoes is an investment and overshoes can help extend their lifespan. They shield your shoes from rain, mud, and scuffs. You could always buy a cheaper low quality pair of shoes for the winter, but this usually means a sacrifice in comfort and performance. Plus you’d still have wet, cold feet…
For a trusty heavy duty overshoe, you can’t go wrong with the BBB BWS-04 HardWear Shoecover, (pictured above) which has many five star reviews on our site.
So, don’t overlook the good old trusty overshoes, give them a try if you fancy a change from your winter boots or want an aero advantage. Your feet will thank you!
I have a winter boot but my toes still get cold but there isn’t the space to layer up with more socks. I’m planning to use the overshoes on the winter boots but wanted to check if this would work. The discussion seems to be winter overshoes vs winter boots, not winter boots + overshoes.
Hi Ted,
Overshoes and winter boots wouldn’t be ‘the norm’ but if you’re suffering it is definitely worth a try. It would probably be worth sizing up on the overshoes as winter boots tend to be a bit more bulky.