Canadian Cycling Magazine

My Super Power

Layering it on, and on, and on

- Matthew Pioro Editor

Ihave one super power. Well, I might have two, but the other one is more of a curse: I always find the slowest checkout line in the grocery store, even if I pick the lane with only one person ahead of me. However, the power – or maybe it’s a skill, or a gift – is my ability to put on an inordinate amount of layers. I’m like a human onion when it comes to clothes, but better smelling, as long as I haven’t been in those layers too long.

I started building my powers as a child growing up in Ottawa. When my mother was cold, I’d have to put on a sweater. Today, in my household, I do the same to my daughter. Having the nation’s capital as my hometown didn’t make me into a person who could “take” the cold. I’m sure if I grew up in Edmonton or Iqaluit, it would have been the same. My high school buddy said it best: “No, it’s not that I’m used to the cold. I just know not to mess with it.” (He actually used a much stronger word than “mess.”)

One of the great benefits of my ability is that it lets me ride throughout the winter. Even the one really cold day in Toronto doesn’t stop me. All the layers also add a bit of extra padding, in case I wipe out in the snow. Around my house, my skill can lead into a game of “guess how many layers I’m wearing.” It’s tough because I wear them well. Fun for the whole family.

I can only think of one time my power led me into a bit of trouble. A few years ago, photo editor Matt Stetson and I were working on a story similar to ‘Combat Cycling Cabin Fever’ on p.52. I got in all kinds of kit: base layers, mid-layers, long-sleeve jerseys, jackets, vests, shells, bib tights, neck gaiters and balaclavas. I had a good idea of what items would go together to make complete outfits. Then we’d find models to wear these outfits. As I was laying out my plans with Stetson, he looked at me in dismay and said, “No one can wear that much and still move!” Oh yeah? I didn’t know what he was talking about. I could pedal a bike nicely with many, many layers on. Did the Flash have a similar moment when he realized no one could keep up with him on a jog?

As you read this, we’re probably deep in the throes of winter, but the end is in sight. Stories in this issue, such as Christina Palassio’s ‘6 Canadian Bikepackin­g Routes You’ll Love’ (p.30) or Jabig’s ‘Cross-Country Rides Through Two Canadas’ (p.24), will no doubt inspire you for summer adventures to come. And do check out our featured crummy-weather cycling clothes. You’ll want to wear them as soon as the roads are clear enough or the trails are ready. Put on a jacket. And a helmet liner. You have a base layer? Better put one on. And a vest. Yes, get a vest. And, let’s see, what else?

“Did the Flash have a similar moment when he realized no one could keep up with him on a jog?”

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