How to Choose Bike Clothing

While you could go biking in nearly any type of clothing, if you plan to bike seriously you should consider purchasing bike-specific clothing designed to keep you cool and dry. There is a variety of different types of clothing designed for bikers, so it's important to choose what's right for you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Purchase a good cool, wicking shirt. You want your shirt to be made of a fabric that will wick away moisture and keep you cool and dry. Jerseys and shirts are generally composed of polyester blends. Lycra is a form-fitting material that will help reduce wind resistance, but can be rather uncomfortable and unstylish depending upon your personal tastes. Looser-fitting shirts are good for those that don't require the utmost speed and prefer more casual, comfortable attire.

Step 2

Consider additional shirt features. A front zipper can provide venting for when you get hot. Many jerseys include pockets on the back to store basics like energy bars. Jerseys should have a cut that is longer in the back to prevent it from slipping up while you lean forward on the bike.

Step 3

Add layers. For winter biking or biking in unpredictable weather, layering in the traditional three-tier system is the best way to protect yourself. In addition to a moisture-wicking first layer, a second insulating layer and third waterproof and breathable layer can be combined. For biking, look for clothing that is lightweight and compactable, so that it will be easy to take off and throw in your bike pack or backpack.

Step 4

Choose shorts. Like jerseys, Lycra shorts are an option chosen by cyclists and racers looking to cut down on resistance. Looser shorts are good for recreational bikers looking to wear something both comfortable and casual. Like shirts, shorts should wick away moisture and keep you cool. Many loose-fitting bike shorts include a padded chamois insert for this purpose. The padding will help to take some of the sting of the bike seat away. Look for pads that are laminated as opposed to stitched to provide additional comfort and durability. Shorts should be made of a lightweight, quick-drying material.

Step 5

Choose gloves. Your hands can really take a beating from gripping the handlebars on a long ride. Gloves provide important protection. Gloves come in both full-fingered and half-fingered varieties and include different levels of padding and grip.

Step 6

Choose shoes. While you don't necessarily need biking shoes, at the very least you should have a good pair of athletic sneakers or shoes. Clipless bike shoes are necessary if you plan to use a clipless pedal system, and bike shoes in general add stiffness and support to increase your performance and comfort.

Step 7

Don't forget socks. Socks should follow suit with the rest of your bike clothing. Avoid cotton socks which retain moisture and can be cold, damp and heavy. Opt for lightweight socks made of good wicking materials like polyester and merino wool.

Tips & Warnings

When possible, try clothing on and try getting on a bike with it to see how comfortable it is in riding position. In addition to clothing, don't forget accessories such as a helmet and sunglasses.

When possible, try clothing on and try getting on a bike with it to see how comfortable it is in riding position.

In addition to clothing, don't forget accessories such as a helmet and sunglasses.

Even if you don't intend to buy advanced biking clothing, avoid cotton when riding as it has poor qualities for outdoor sports.

Article Written By Joe Fletcher

Joe Fletcher has been a writer since 2002, starting his career in politics and legislation. He has written travel and outdoor recreation articles for a variety of print and online publications, including "Rocky Mountain Magazine" and "Bomb Snow." He received a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Rutgers College.

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