I just have my regular helmet. Days like today I pull my neck gaiter up to partially cover my face. When it gets really cold, Balaclava and ski googles. I dislike both because I feel like I'm riding in a tunnel.
Last winter I did invest in a MIPS ski helmet and cheap goggles for the super cold (for me that means 0°-15°) days. If it’s under 0°F I walk, take transit or drive bc I struggle more to keep comfortable at those temps.
For me it’s all about the shell. I’m sure you a lot of the stuff - base layers and boots. I would recommend spending the money on a good outer shell jacket, bonus if it’s vented. I love my ShowersPass. Other items I depend on - leather mittens and ear wrap headband with wind protection shell.
You know what a cheap bastard I am - I don’t have any bike-specific winter gear, I just layer up (good insulator + nylon shell) and duct tape all the helmet vent holes except for the back.
It’s funny - I used a regular parka today, regular hiking boots & socks, regular heavy mittens, and some cross-country ski pants, topped with a balaclava & helmet. Only the helmet was bought for the bike. (The ski pants are Craft, which are a little spendy but look ok in the world.)
This is absolutely the trickiest part. I tried goggles, hated them, now use regular sunglasses & glasses, only tear up a little. But if you get goggles, usually the snowboarding ones vent pretty well.
Comments
Hands- don't underestimate how great Pogies are. It took me too many years to realize that.
Feet- Do whatever you can
Also, it's amazing what a neck gaiter and a helmet cover can do. Both are inexpensive
Now you have me thinking of a full moto helmet.
-studded tires
-barmitts
Everything else is my usual winter gear:
-wool socks
-winter shoes/boots
-jeans
-hoodie
-winter jacket
-buff
-winter headband over my ears
-winter gloves