Cycling Clothing – What Should You Know?
Jumping on your bike and want to feel comfortable enough to ride all day? Choosing the right clothes is essential! Cycling clothing is not just about fashion, but above all, functionality. Thanks to it, your rides will be even more enjoyable. Here's what you need to know:
- Cycling jerseys – lightweight, breathable, and perfect for all conditions.
- Cycling shorts – a comfortable chamois is your best friend for longer rides.
- Cycling jackets – regardless of the weather, a cycling jacket is a must-have.
- Cycling gloves – they protect your hands from vibrations and chafing.
- Cycling shoes – they improve your efficiency and comfort.
- Cycling glasses – protection for your eyes from the sun, dust, and wind.
- Cycling helmets – safety first!
Cycling Jerseys – Breathable Comfort
Forget regular t-shirts! Cycling jerseys are in a league of their own. They're designed to provide maximum comfort during rides. Thanks to modern materials, they're lightweight, breathable, and quickly wick away moisture. Sunshine? No problem – many models offer UV protection.
Cycling jerseys fit snugly to your body, so nothing will restrict your movement while riding. Anatomical cuts, back pockets, and zippers for extra ventilation – these are the details that make a difference. Want to feel fresh even after a long ride? Opt for jerseys with antibacterial materials to reduce unpleasant odors.
Cycling Shorts – Comfort First
Anyone who has spent at least an hour on the saddle knows that shorts with a chamois are a must-have. Without them, even the shortest ride can turn into a nightmare. The chamois, made of soft material, adapts to the shape of your body, eliminating the risk of chafing. Planning longer trips? Choose shorts with gel or foam padding for extra cushioning.
Not a fan of tight shorts? Go for looser cycling shorts! Many of them come with inner boxers and a chamois, so you still get the comfort, but with a more casual, relaxed style.
Cycling Jackets – Beat the Weather
When the weather doesn’t cooperate, a good cycling jacket makes all the difference. Rain jackets made from waterproof membranes are your best bet for rainy days. It's important for the fabric to protect against water while allowing the skin to breathe.
Windbreakers are another option – light, breathable, but they block cold gusts of wind. Do you enjoy winter rides? Insulated cycling jackets will provide the right protection against the cold. And of course, reflective elements – because safety comes first!
Cycling Gloves – Keep Your Hands in Check
Your hands deserve comfort too. Cycling gloves protect them from vibrations and chafing. On hot days, opt for lightweight gloves with short fingers, while in winter, reach for insulated, waterproof gloves. A secure grip is essential, so go for gloves with anti-slip technology, and gel pads to improve comfort even further.
Cycling Shoes – Better Grip and Efficiency
If you think regular sports shoes are enough for cycling, think again. Cycling shoes are designed to maximize pedaling efficiency. Road cycling shoes are ultra-light and breathable – ideal for long rides. Meanwhile, MTB shoes offer better grip and durability on rough terrain.
Thanks to systems like SPD or BOA, the shoes fit perfectly to your foot, making pedaling even more efficient. Prefer trekking? We've got you covered – trekking shoes are comfortable both on and off the bike.
Cycling Glasses – Visibility and Protection
Cycling glasses are more than just a stylish accessory. They protect your eyes from UV rays, dust, and wind. If you’re riding in varying light conditions, opt for photochromic glasses – they automatically adjust lens darkness based on the conditions.
Prefer control? Glasses with interchangeable lenses allow you to adapt to the weather, while polarized models improve contrast by reducing glare.
Cycling Helmets – Your Safety
A helmet is essential – no compromises here. It protects your head from injuries, and a well-fitted helmet with proper ventilation will keep you comfortable, even on hot days. Road helmets are lightweight and aerodynamic, while MTB helmets offer more coverage, especially at the back of your head.
The MIPS technology is a game-changer in the helmet world – it protects against multidirectional impacts, significantly enhancing your safety.
Summary
Want to fully enjoy cycling? Choose clothing that ensures comfort and safety, no matter the conditions. Investing in high-quality cycling gear enhances every ride. Breathable materials, gel padding, anti-slip technologies, and helmet ventilation – all of these will make cycling pure joy!
FAQ
What should cycling clothing be like?
Cycling clothing should be lightweight, comfortable, and suited to weather conditions. It’s important to choose garments that are breathable and quick-drying, like cycling jerseys made from technical fabrics. Additionally, cycling shorts with a chamois reduce the risk of chafing, which is crucial on longer rides. Reflective elements are also essential for increasing your visibility on the road.
How to stay warm while cycling?
To stay warm during chilly rides, it’s best to layer up (more in the article: "autumn cycling clothing"). Thermal base layers are a must, followed by a cycling jersey and an insulated windbreaker or rain jacket. Protecting your hands and feet is key – winter gloves and shoe covers will keep your extremities warm, even during long rides.
Where to buy cycling clothing?
It’s best to buy cycling clothing from specialized shops or reliable platforms like MIKESPORT. These stores offer a wide range of products tailored to different cycling needs, from beginners to pros. It’s also worth checking customer reviews and recommendations from other cyclists.
Which cycling clothing brands to choose?
There are many reputable cycling clothing brands to consider. Brands like Rogelli, Castelli, Endura, KAYMAQ, Gore Wear, and Santini offer high-quality products that provide maximum comfort and durability. By choosing clothing from these brands, you can be sure they will perform well in various weather conditions.
Do you wear underwear under cycling shorts?
No, you should not wear underwear under cycling shorts. The chamois in cycling shorts is designed to provide optimal comfort and prevent chafing. Wearing additional underwear would only cause discomfort and reduce the effectiveness of the chamois.
What color cycling jersey should I wear?
The best choice is bright, high-visibility colors that increase your visibility on the road. Colors like neon green, orange, or yellow stand out, which is especially important when riding in low-light conditions. Reflective elements also improve safety.
Why are cycling shorts so long?
The length of cycling shorts is no accident – they protect against chafing and stabilize muscles during rides. Longer shorts minimize the risk of fabric bunching and provide better protection from the cold. This makes them more comfortable, especially on longer rides.
Why do mountain bikers wear loose clothing?
Mountain bikers choose loose clothing because it provides greater freedom of movement and better protection. In rough terrain, loose clothing shields against branches, rocks, and other obstacles. The looser fit also helps with ventilation, which is crucial during intense rides.
Why are MTB cycling shorts loose?
Loose MTB shorts allow for greater freedom of movement, which is essential during technical descents and navigating obstacles. The inner chamois still provides comfort, but the outer layer is looser, giving a sense of increased comfort and protection. It’s also a matter of style – MTB is a more "casual" version of cycling.
Should MTB pants be short?
MTB pants can be either short or long, depending on the weather and your preferences. In summer, short MTB shorts with a chamois are ideal, providing breathability and comfort. In winter, long, insulated MTB pants are a better choice, keeping your legs protected from the cold and wind.
What to wear for MTB?
For MTB, loose shorts with a chamois and technical jerseys that wick away moisture and are durable are the best choices. Additionally, in colder weather, it's worth choosing rain or wind jackets that protect against wind and rain. Gloves with extra padding and a solid helmet are must-haves for MTB.
What to wear under a cycling jersey?
Under a cycling jersey, it’s best to wear a base layer, known as a wicking shirt. The base layer effectively wicks moisture away from the body, preventing overheating. This keeps your skin dry, which is especially important during intense efforts.
Why wear a base layer while cycling?
A base layer serves to regulate body temperature and wick away sweat. It helps keep your skin dry and increases comfort, especially in cooler conditions. The base layer also prevents chafing, which is important on longer rides.
Can you wear cycling shorts without a base layer?
Yes, cycling shorts are designed to be worn without an additional base layer. The built-in chamois provides comfort and protection from chafing, and an extra layer could reduce the chamois's effectiveness. It’s best to wear cycling shorts directly on your skin.
Why wear an undershirt while cycling?
An undershirt acts as a base layer, which effectively wicks sweat and helps maintain body temperature. It also protects against chafing and increases comfort during rides. In cooler weather, it helps keep you warm, while in summer, it wicks away excess moisture.
What is cycling underwear for?
Cycling underwear, especially thermal underwear, serves as a base layer that helps regulate body temperature. It protects against chafing and helps wick away sweat, which is especially important during intense efforts. With it, your rides become more comfortable.
How tight should cycling underwear be?
Cycling underwear should fit snugly against your body but not so tight that it restricts movement. It needs to be close-fitting to effectively wick sweat and prevent chafing. Too loose, and it won’t perform its function, while too tight can cause discomfort.
What are the benefits of a cycling jersey?
A cycling jersey provides optimal ventilation and breathability during rides. The technical fabrics it’s made of wick away sweat and protect against wind and sun. Additionally, the anatomical fit and back pockets enhance the jersey’s functionality.
What do professional cyclists wear under their shorts?
Professional cyclists typically wear nothing under their shorts. The chamois is designed to provide optimal comfort without the need for additional underwear. This minimizes the risk of chafing and improves airflow.
What underwear to wear for cycling?
It’s best not to wear underwear under cycling shorts with a chamois. However, if you choose to wear underwear, opt for seamless, breathable fabrics to avoid chafing. Avoid regular cotton underwear, which can increase moisture and discomfort.
How to look stylish on a bike?
By choosing technical clothing in bright colors, you not only increase your visibility but also look stylish. Well-fitting cycling shorts, jerseys in interesting patterns, and a modern helmet design are great choices. Additional accessories like sunglasses can add style and protect you from the sun.
Can women wear men's cycling shorts?
Women can wear men's cycling shorts, but it’s better to opt for models specifically designed for women. Women’s shorts have a different cut, better suited to the female body, providing greater comfort. The chamois in women’s models is also tailored to female anatomy, significantly improving comfort.
What cycling pants for autumn?
For autumn, it’s best to choose long cycling pants that provide protection from wind and cold. Pants with windproof membranes and breathable panels will be ideal. Additionally, opt for models with reflective elements, which increase visibility on shorter autumn days.
How to wash cycling pants?
Wash cycling pants at a low temperature, preferably 30°C, on a delicate cycle. Use mild detergents that won’t damage the technical fabrics. Avoid tumble drying, as it can affect the elasticity of the fabric and the structure of the chamois.
What to wear for winter cycling?
During winter rides, it’s best to layer up – thermal underwear, insulated cycling pants, and a windproof or rain jacket. Add winter gloves, a thermal cap under the helmet, and shoe covers to provide adequate insulation from the cold. It’s important for each layer to wick away moisture while retaining heat.
How to keep your head warm while cycling?
To keep your head warm, it’s best to wear a thermal cap under your helmet. A good choice is also a balaclava, which protects not only your head but also your neck and face. The materials should be breathable while retaining warmth.
How to keep your legs warm while cycling?
Insulated cycling pants or leg warmers are ideal solutions for cold days. You can also use additional shoe covers to protect your feet from cold and moisture. It’s important to choose breathable materials that also insulate well.
How many layers to wear for winter cycling?
In winter, it’s best to use a three-layer system: thermal underwear as the first layer, a cycling jersey as the second, and a windproof or rain jacket on top. This setup ensures proper insulation, protection from the wind, and optimal moisture wicking.
What to wear under a cycling helmet in winter?
In winter, it's best to wear a thin thermal cap or balaclava under your helmet to protect your head and ears from the cold. A well-fitting cap should be thin enough not to interfere with helmet fit but warm enough to keep you comfortable in colder conditions.