By Jeff Brown, PCI #487/EMSCI #064
Dayton Police Department (OH)

Those of us who are not fortunate enough to work in an area that enjoys a comfortable year-round climate have two options once cold weather arrives. We can stop riding and wait patiently for spring, or, we can find winter gear that allows us to ride year-round.

Most of the medics I know are smart enough to put their bikes away until the weather breaks (except those Bostonians); therefore, I will direct this review towards police and security officers.

One of the first items you might purchase for winter riding is a pair of heavy winter gloves. The main problem with this choice is safety. If you have to fire your weapon, you will probably have to remove those gloves. Those precious seconds could cost you your life.

BRATWEAR™ offers a product that allows a rider to wear thin, lightweight gloves instead of the usual bulky winter gloves - CLIMITTS® Cycling Mitts. CLIMITTS® were designed by Seattle Police Officer Steve Redmond, who was apparently tired of his hands being wet and cold during the winter months.

CLIMITTS® Cycling Mitts attach directly to the handlebars with Velcro® and take less than a minute to install. Once on the bike, the CLIMITTS® cover the brake levers, grips and shifters. They also have openings for bar ends. CLIMITTS® are made with a waterproof outer shell, are windproof, and are lined with fleece to provide extra warmth and protection. They also have a reflective strip for safety.

I have been using the CLIMITTS® Cycling Mitts since 2001. I purchased my first pair at the 11th Annual IPMBA Conference in Cincinnati. After evaluating the CLIMITTS® for an entire winter, I purchased a pair for each of the full-time bike officers on our department.

I would highly recommend the CLIMITTS® Cycling Mitts for anyone who rides in cold weather. In the words of my partner, "these are the greatest things since sliced bread!"

Visit www.bratwear.com or call (253) 517-4000 for more information.

Jeff is currently assigned to bike patrol in Dayton's central business district. He serves on the IPMBA Industry Relations Committee and is looking forward to hosting the 16th Annual IPMBA Conference in May 2006. He can be reached at daypoblue@yahoo.com.

© 2005 IPMBA. This review appeared in the Winter 2005 issue of IPMBA News.