RE: Dutch Cycling, Learning as I go and the Science behind Cycling!

Now, I 'think' I only need waterproof or water repellent gloves to keep my hands from getting cold, I can imagine when it's raining when it's even colder they WILL get wet and cold - for now I will just use plastic covers the gas stations provide to keep my winter gloves dry when it rains again.

Cold hands and feet are my main concern when cycling 'all year round'. The legs will warm up when you go fast enough and wind- and waterproof jackets will keep your upper body warm.
I have multiple gloves; for cold and even colder weather 😂
For the coldest weather I have lobster gloves (google it). They keep my hands warm.
For my feet I have insulated, water proof shoe covers. When my feet get cold, my whole body gets cold, so they are indispensable.
And you are right; it can be an expensive hobby. Especially when you want to cycle the whole year round.
But you can dress up for cold, so you don't have to quit during the winter 😀