Cycling Clothing
Shorts. Classic cycling shorts are made from Nylon/Lycra with a pad to cushion your bottom. There are waist shorts and bib shorts. Waist shorts have an elastic waist band, bib shorts have built in braces.
Bib shorts are more comfy, lack of a waistband is what makes the difference.
Jerseys. Shaped like a t-shirt but made from wicking synthetic materials or a blend with Merino wool. A cycling jersey normally has a high neck for sun protection, a zip at the front, pockets. The most common jerseys have short or long sleeves.
Jersey material ranges from ultra-light breathable to thick windproof and water-resistant.
Gloves. The classic ‘track mitt’ has a lightly padded leather palm, crocheted cotton back and a Velcro strip to hold it in place. There are alternatives, gel padding in the palm, stretch backs so no need for a Velcro tab, toweling wipes on the thumb.
For winter choose full finger gloves.
Tights. In cooler weather you’ll need to cover more of your self. Cycling tights extend the coverage to ankles, and usually made of a thicker material for warmth. The are available with and without bibs, and also available with and without a pad.
Three-quarter leggings are midway between shorts and tights. The legs go to mid-calf, so knees stay warmer. Most of these leggings are made from lightish Lycra so can be used in warm weather too.
Another leg wear option is cycling trousers or jeans. Normally made from fabric with a touch of stretch to make it easier to pedal in and can have reflective patches inside the cuffs that are visible when you turn them up, a pocket for a small D-lock, buttons or poppers to keep the cuffs out of the chain.
Jackets. Waterproof or heavier outer layers start where jerseys leave off. There are thermal with insulation; waterproof hardshells and softshells.
Thermal jackets are for cold, dry conditions: Hardshells are classic cycling waterproofs, usually made from breathable fabrics. Softshells give warmth and protection from rain.
Gilet. A gilet or vest is a sleeveless outer layer that keeps the wind off your body area. They are good with a long-sleeved jersey in spring and autumn.
Socks. Cycling socks are made from thin, sweat-wicking fabrics, normally with a thicker layer on the sole for padding. In winter many cyclists change to Merino wool as it has some insulating properties even when wet.
Shoes. Stiff soles are a feature of cycling shoes, and normally have attachment points for cleats. Held in place with Velcro or ratchet straps or laces. Racing shoes have a cleat that stands proud of the sole and are difficult to walk in. Shoes with recessed cleats are easier to walk.
