Over the years I have used Giro and Kask road helmets but decided to try the Sweet Protection Falconer 2Vi due to it being at the top of the Virginia Tech helmet safety ratings (5-star with MIPS). Sweet Protection is fairly new to cycling but have been manufacturing snowboarding / ski helmets for years and is currently used by the UNO-X Mobility pro cycling team. After 6 months of use it has become my favorite helmet. It fits well, comparatively light - I sometimes forget I have it on, good ventilation, sleek looking - not a "mushroom" look, convenient sunglass storage, comfortable retention strap. Highly recommended!
Keeps the rain off, and is hard for drivers to NOT see the screaming yellow! When Wisconsin brings a cool and drizzly day it's comfy with a base layer or long sleeved shirt. Also works as a heavier kind of wind breaker.
Because I have front & rear lights on my helmet, I folded the front couple of inches of the hood into the hood, and held it in place with a little carpet tape. That allows it to fit inside my helmet without blocking my peripheral vision or the helmet lights.
I have moderate Raynauds, which makes winter riding difficult. I've tried all the tips for people like me, and finally ordered these boots two winters ago. They help for temps in the low 40sF, but below that, or even for long rides in low 40s, my toes still become painful and white (going through all the colors with rewarming...). At very low temps, I add battery powered heated socks. The battery packs are annoying, but so is not riding :-)
I will say that the boots are quite comfortable and have held up well.
I'll also add that Pearl Izumi's lobster gloves are the best that I've found for my Raynauds fingers. A little awkward with Di2, but they do work.
Long been a fan of both Fizik road, and MTB shoes. Found the Ferox to be very suitable for both long gravel, and XC rides. The shoe is stiff, and been able to handle the most technical climbs without slippage, and no foot "fatigue". Easy to get off the bike, and have enough tread to walk around. The shoe is suitable for all-season, enough breathability to keep the feet cool in the Summer, and enough space to handle wearing a heavier sock in the cooler months.
Liked the first pair I purchased so much, I bought a second backup pair.
