Winter warrior kit picks: Luke Friend's Gear of the Year 2022

A modern steel road bike, a 3D printed saddle, waterproof gloves and versatile insulated jacket

Image shows Luke Friend's Gear of the Year which includes Fairlight Strael road bike and Rapha Brevet Insulated Jacket
(Image credit: Future)

The past year saw me back in the UK and riding on familiar roads after living in America. While the terrain was different my riding habits remained largely the same. I’ve never been one for numbers or data, preferring just to let how I’m feeling dictate both the length and the intensity of the ride. Increasingly as I get older that has meant a somewhat leisurely pace on the road, allowing me to enjoy the scenery, or heading off road entirely to escape the traffic.

Not riding by the numbers also means that indoor training holds little appeal. Getting outside is entirely the point for me, even if it’s just a short ride or one in less than ideal weather conditions. Riding year round does require good gear however, and my picks are products that helped me do this, increasing both my comfort and enjoyment on the bike.

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Freelance writer

Luke Friend has worked as a writer, editor and copywriter for twenty five years. Across books, magazines and websites, he's covered a broad range of topics for a range of clients including Major League Baseball, the National Trust and the NHS. He has an MA in Professional Writing from Falmouth University and is a qualified bicycle mechanic. He has been a cycling enthusiast from an early age, partly due to watching the Tour de France on TV. He's a keen follower of bike racing to this day as well as a regular road and gravel rider.