By all means, recommend away. Noise doesn't bother me. I'm not a big impulse buyer, so the more knowledge I have, the better.
For Canadians, MEC seems to be a favorite source, but for us in the States, I really like Sierra Trading Post's e-mail sales but will occasionally buy stuff from REI.
Head: cheap neoprene balaclava + taping over the vent holes of your helmet with packing tape
Torso: base layer is a thin synthetic long-sleeve shirt. Most of mine are Kenyon Polarskins because they were dirt cheap on STP. Mid layer is my spring pullover fleece jacket, which works for most winter temps below freezing but not super cold. Outer layer is a Marmot PreCip (GoreTex-like material) jacket.
Hands: I have some Dakine ski/snowboard gloves. They're pretty warm but I might need to add a thin liner layer for the really cold days, or days when I'm out for long periods.
Legs: synthetic base layer - same brands as above. Outer layer is usually cotton sweats unless it's either very cold or wet, in which case I have Marmot PreCip pants.
Feet: I know you like your powered upstroke, but I like the grip of traction-pin pedals combined with NOT having my feet hooked in when conditions are shit. Above freezing I wear my standard sneakers with wool socks, but below freezing I have ridiculously warm hunting boots, which also work great as winter hiking footwear. I could do without the camo aesthetic, but they're well built (Red Wings) and have 1000g Thinsulate insulation, which is rated to -40F. If you're taking really long rides in the winter, no matter what the boot, you might need to dismount occasionally to walk. (I definitely needed to do this last winter.) The motion helps stimulate blood flow in your toes. I also curl my toes every couple minutes when actively pedaling to do the same thing.
Keeping your LEGS warm does help keep your FEET warmer, so consider adding leg layers unless you're getting sweaty legs.
Avoid cotton like the plague, even for mid and outer layers.