Cycling Clothing - Staying Comfortable on Your Bike
Proper cycling clothing isn't something that is a must have, it's more of a convenience type of thing. It's usually designed to give the wearer the most comfort while practicing this sport but there is no end all, be all in what to wear or what not to wear. Doing a simple search on the internet for it brings up a plethora of options, styles and materials which can be overwhelming to a novice. There are some basics that are good to have handy, and there are some extras that are nice to have. And we won't even get into cycling shoes right now.
When it comes to your legs and choosing the correct cycling clothing there are three basic types. Regular pants, long tights style pants and shorts. The main thing you want to look for when shopping is a lightweight fabric that is going to help whisk moisture away from your skin and help to keep you cool. Most hard core cyclists prefer to wear shorts or long tights that are in a bib style to keep them up. Some styles even have some padding in key areas to make your ride a little more comfortable. Also consider the climate you will be riding in when buying your clothing. If your plan on riding during cold and wintry conditions you may want to find something that is waterproof or thermal knit to help keep you warm.
Covering your torso and the options for doing it are similar to those for your legs. Jackets, jerseys, body warmers and regular shirts are just a few of the cycling clothing selections to choose from. Again, light weight and moisture wicking are things you want to look for. Many times, the shirts have pockets sewn into them so you have a handy place to stash things like your keys, cell phone and credit card while biking. There are even winter jackets designed for cycling that are lightweight enough to not inhibit any movement but keep you warm in the colder temperatures. For colder weather, you may want to layer several thin layers rather than bulk yourself with two heavy layers. I even saw mentioned in one place, pasties for cycling enthusiasts!
When you begin to buy cycling clothing, take into account the places you will be riding it. A good choice for warm climate riding would be lycra bib shorts and a lightweight jersey. If you are planning on hitting a rainy climate, opt for waterproof gear that will not only keep your comfortable, but dry at the same time. Cold weather riding with snows and wind would turn you to options like an under vest, thicker woven tights, leg warmers and arm warmers with some water proofing to round it all out. Other things you will want to keep in mind when purchasing are socks, gloves, hats and helmets. With the right gear, you will be riding in high style and comfort while protecting your body from the elements.
When it comes to your legs and choosing the correct cycling clothing there are three basic types. Regular pants, long tights style pants and shorts. The main thing you want to look for when shopping is a lightweight fabric that is going to help whisk moisture away from your skin and help to keep you cool. Most hard core cyclists prefer to wear shorts or long tights that are in a bib style to keep them up. Some styles even have some padding in key areas to make your ride a little more comfortable. Also consider the climate you will be riding in when buying your clothing. If your plan on riding during cold and wintry conditions you may want to find something that is waterproof or thermal knit to help keep you warm.
Covering your torso and the options for doing it are similar to those for your legs. Jackets, jerseys, body warmers and regular shirts are just a few of the cycling clothing selections to choose from. Again, light weight and moisture wicking are things you want to look for. Many times, the shirts have pockets sewn into them so you have a handy place to stash things like your keys, cell phone and credit card while biking. There are even winter jackets designed for cycling that are lightweight enough to not inhibit any movement but keep you warm in the colder temperatures. For colder weather, you may want to layer several thin layers rather than bulk yourself with two heavy layers. I even saw mentioned in one place, pasties for cycling enthusiasts!
When you begin to buy cycling clothing, take into account the places you will be riding it. A good choice for warm climate riding would be lycra bib shorts and a lightweight jersey. If you are planning on hitting a rainy climate, opt for waterproof gear that will not only keep your comfortable, but dry at the same time. Cold weather riding with snows and wind would turn you to options like an under vest, thicker woven tights, leg warmers and arm warmers with some water proofing to round it all out. Other things you will want to keep in mind when purchasing are socks, gloves, hats and helmets. With the right gear, you will be riding in high style and comfort while protecting your body from the elements.
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