embrocation

[darkcloud]

Anyone use embrocation creme and leg warmers/tights? I don't ride much in cold temps so I'm just curious...

 

[ustabe]

I tried it a couple of times, but it drew so much blood to my extremities that my core got cold. I use a little icy hot or tiger balm on my feet, ankles, and knees, which are a little prone to arthritis now, but I depend on insulation to keep the legs warm.

 

[condor71]

Sportsbalm medium works really well, you need to get on the bike pretty quickly after you put it on though or you'll feel the burn!!
I tend to use this if it's cold but not cold enough for 3/4's, if I'm in full winter tights don't bother with embrocation.
I tried the Sportsbalm hot once, never again!!

 

[joe1265]

Use it all the time. I've tried all kinds, but sort of have settled on this brand:

http://www.soigneur.net/

It's more of a cream and it's the perfect strength, not too hot or too weak (at least for me).

Otherwise, my second favorite it Mad Alchemy gentlemans blend. It's more waxy vs. creamy.

 

[darkcloud]

I have used Mad Alchemy "Madness" on occasion and it works quite well. The problem is when I get into the shower AFTER the ride. It is painful when it comes into contact w/water. I will continue to use this product if I have to ride in the cold, though...
Part of my reason for posing the question is I was wondering if this stuff will wash out of clothing or if it tends to stain or weaken the fabric after some time.

 

[ergmonkey]

I have used Mad Alchemy "Madness" on occasion and it works quite well. The problem is when I get into the shower AFTER the ride. It is painful when it comes into contact w/water. I will continue to use this product if I have to ride in the cold, though...

Shampoo does a pretty good job of washing this stuff off.

Also, I find that a liquid soap with lots of natural oils is effective. Basically, 'like dissolves like'... I especially enjoy using one with a strong cooling effect (like Dr. Bronner's Peppermint).

 

[darkcloud]

Dr. Bronner's Peppermint
Good stuff.

 

[condor71]

I used to have the same problem. Was recommended eau de cologne which you can buy cheaply in any pharmacy, use to wipe off embrocation before shower and bingo, no more burn!!

 

[brianf7]

At one time you could smell a bike race from a mile away The old mix of wintergreen and olive oil was the magic potion used by so many untill they invented all the new potions.

The main advantage was that rain would run off the muscles and also create a warming or at least seal the cold out.

It worked to a point but it was messey would stick to the shower after and dont get it on your what knot.

Better than leg warmers in rain

If its that cold I dont ride now since they invented the wind trainer.

Anyone have answers to chilblains apart from walking up the hills foot warmers overboots are OK but them feet just sit there getting frozen.

 

[ergmonkey]

Anyone have answers to chilblains apart from walking up the hills foot warmers overboots are OK but them feet just sit there getting frozen.

This year I decided to experiment with slathering mink oil all over my neoprene overshoes/booties (yeah, the same stuff you use to condition and waterproof leather boots). I have to say, this treatment is extremely cheap and it makes the rain and road spray simply bead off of the shoe covers. So, you can get a lot closer to true "waterproof" covers. Also, the wind protection is improved.

The obvious downside is that the outsides of your shoe covers are a little bit greasy and fine road grit will stick to them. These problems, though, do not affect you at all while riding.

 

[socalvelo]

The stuff works great. I've used it during cyclocross or winter mountain biking.
Cyclocross - centric webstores and LBS's have good brands.

I don't use icy-hot or tiger balm because that stuff BURNS my skin.

 

[darkcloud]

Interesting replies. Thank you all.

 

[Clearly Unstable]

I have used Mad Alchemy "Madness" on occasion and it works quite well. The problem is when I get into the shower AFTER the ride. It is painful when it comes into contact w/water. I will continue to use this product if I have to ride in the cold, though...
Part of my reason for posing the question is I was wondering if this stuff will wash out of clothing or if it tends to stain or weaken the fabric after some time.

Dry + cold = Tights/knees warmers/etc. No embro.

Wet + cold = Embro only.

I use madness sometimes....wonderful stuff and I've never had any fabric issues where my bibs contact it on my upper legs.

I do a through leg clean up with dish washing liquid post ride to avoid the shower burn. I hear "baby wipes" work well......

 

[Topangarider]

I also like Mad Alchemy. It comes in various strengths. I can't recall the one I use but it has an orange color. I did get some on a white jersey and it washed out (i did that right away - not sure if it would stain if it sits).

 

[flicker]

KLOSTERFRAU
Mobilund
Menthol
3-fach Wirkung