I ride similarly equipped,,, note the boots and shin pads in the photo. That boot/pad combo not only protects in a crash,,, but also shields from high low temp's as well. Speaking of the small maintenance covers,,, I also recently did a days ride in cool-ish 10c conditions,,,, and out of curiosity took both covers off to test the effect. It was fantastic,,, cushy warmth all day. Sure sometimes the heat poured out against my knees,,, but they are protect from both heat and cold,,, as I said. The boots are pricey,,, but the pads are cheap,,, about $20 on sale,, and both are totally convenient. The pads work much better than pant mounted knee armor,,, as they stay perfectly in place. And, I have crash tested them,,, by sliding across asphalt without damage to myself. So I don't ride without the boot/pad combo anymore,,, in all temp's. CAt'