Finding the right cycling clothing and apparel can make a huge difference in your ride comfort, performance, and safety. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just starting out, having the right gear can make your ride more enjoyable. In this blog post, we’ll discuss tips for picking the right cycling clothing and apparel to ensure you have the best ride possible.
1) Choose cycling-specific clothing
Choosing cycling-specific clothing may seem easy, but there are many different factors to consider. Cycling clothing should be made for cycling and should also fit your body shape. One of the most important things is picking the right length. When you’re looking at a shirt or jersey, make sure it doesn’t ride up when you raise your arm or move around while on the bike. Shorts are an important part of cycling clothing too, and they should be snug fitting to avoid excess fabric that can cause friction on the bike seat. Remember that long sleeve shirts may not be ideal because they will get in the way when you’re trying to operate your shifters and brake levers.
2) Consider the climate and conditions
Consider the climate and conditions. If you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow, go for waterproof clothes. You may also want to consider whether the clothing is breathable or windproof if it’s very cold. Wool can be great for warmth without being too heavy or bulky, but beware that wool can retain heat and make you feel warmer than it actually is. On the other hand, if you are always hot and sweating while cycling, then choose light fabrics like cotton or linen to keep cool.
3) Look for comfortable, breathable fabrics
Looking for comfortable, breathable fabrics is important when picking cycling clothing and apparel. You want to find a fabric that will not only keep you cool and dry, but will also offer some level of protection from the wind. Synthetic fabrics are great for biking because they don’t absorb water or sweat like cotton does, which can lead to your clothes feeling wet and heavy. Look for high-quality fabrics that offer stretch, durability, and breathability so you can stay comfortable on your bike for hours.
4) Make sure the clothing fits properly
Making sure the clothing fits properly is one of the most important aspects of cycling apparel. Clothing that’s too tight or too loose can be uncomfortable and difficult to pedal in. To make sure you’re getting the right fit, stand with your feet slightly apart, bend at the waist and raise your arms as if you were about to do a sit-up. Stand up straight again and measure from under your armpit to where the waistline of your clothes is on your hipbone. If you have more than an inch difference between these measurements, then the clothes are probably too big for you. If there’s less than an inch difference, then they’re likely a good fit for you. It’s also important to consider how tight or loose fitting different pieces of clothing should be based on what you’re going to wear them with.
About the Author
