History of Cycling Jerseys
Cycling jerseys were originally made of wool; they had pockets on the front of the chest.
Wool kept the riders warm in cold conditions, but was far too hot in warmer conditions.
In professional cycling the name of the bicycle manufacturer was added to the front of the riders jerseys as the sponsor. Later on as television coverage of bike racing grew, companies from outside the cycling industry began to see the value of sponsoring cyclists and the money and prestige involved increased.
As technology moved on the wool jerseys were replaced by polyester, these were far more comfortable for the cyclists and better suited for the changing weather conditions experienced in races.
The pockets were moved to the lower back, making them much easier and safer to access whilst travelling. Zips were introduced at the front of the jersey, first short ones then full length designed to help cope with the heat, you will often see cyclists with the zips fully open when climbing mountains in the hot alpine stages.
Cycling jerseys have since improved again becoming more resilient to the cold and wet weather, however in heavy rain you will still see the riders all seeking the protection of a rain cape.
As in so many other sports replica kits have become more and more popular. It's now possible to buy the jersey, shorts, gloves, and all accessories of any of your favourite cycling teams.
Choosing a Cycling Jersey
If you are starting cycling in Summer then it's probably best to buy a full zip cycling jersey. If it's winter you may want to buy a part zip jersey, this is usually cheaper to buy. Most jerseys have 3 pockets on the back, steer clear of any jerseys that don't as on long rides you may want to carry a lot in your pockets.
I would recommend a short sleeve jersey but also buy arm warmers. It's then more versatile whatever the weather. A bright colour is obviously safer when riding on the roads and there are many fluorescent jerseys available, also amongst professional team jerseys.
Wool kept the riders warm in cold conditions, but was far too hot in warmer conditions.
In professional cycling the name of the bicycle manufacturer was added to the front of the riders jerseys as the sponsor. Later on as television coverage of bike racing grew, companies from outside the cycling industry began to see the value of sponsoring cyclists and the money and prestige involved increased.
As technology moved on the wool jerseys were replaced by polyester, these were far more comfortable for the cyclists and better suited for the changing weather conditions experienced in races.
The pockets were moved to the lower back, making them much easier and safer to access whilst travelling. Zips were introduced at the front of the jersey, first short ones then full length designed to help cope with the heat, you will often see cyclists with the zips fully open when climbing mountains in the hot alpine stages.
Cycling jerseys have since improved again becoming more resilient to the cold and wet weather, however in heavy rain you will still see the riders all seeking the protection of a rain cape.
As in so many other sports replica kits have become more and more popular. It's now possible to buy the jersey, shorts, gloves, and all accessories of any of your favourite cycling teams.
Choosing a Cycling Jersey
If you are starting cycling in Summer then it's probably best to buy a full zip cycling jersey. If it's winter you may want to buy a part zip jersey, this is usually cheaper to buy. Most jerseys have 3 pockets on the back, steer clear of any jerseys that don't as on long rides you may want to carry a lot in your pockets.
I would recommend a short sleeve jersey but also buy arm warmers. It's then more versatile whatever the weather. A bright colour is obviously safer when riding on the roads and there are many fluorescent jerseys available, also amongst professional team jerseys.
Comments
Post a Comment