Everything You Need To Assemble Functional Cycling Outfit

by Sana Bun

Everything You Need To Assemble Functional Cycling Outfit

25 Jun 2024

This spring, Pitti Immagine announced its upcoming partnership with the renowned Tour de France and the launch of a new project — Be Cycle — dedicated to the cycling industry. Taking place from June 26 to June 28 in Florence, the exhibition aims to bring leading Italian companies in the bike sector together to showcase their latest products, initiatives, and stories while also shining a spotlight on cycling tourism and culture. So, get ready to explore the magnificent routes and dive into our guide to set up a perfect outfit for your cycling adventures.

No matter, if you do road, mountain, or gravel biking, assembling the right cycling gear is crucially important for the overall riding experience as your comfort, performance and even safety depend on the clothes you wear. Here are some important staples and how to choose them.

Cycling jerseys

Unlike an ordinary T-shirt, a cycling jersey is designed for optimal movement. Longer from the back and slim-fitting, it improves aerodynamics, helping you gain speed. Thanks to moisture-wicking and air-flowing technical materials and a zipper, it also regulates body temperature. Other nice additions are UV and wind protection, together with pockets to store the essentials.

While picking your jersey, check the label for composition and go for polyester or a polyester blend with other fabrics. As an alternative, opt for merino wool. Keep in mind that it is less elastic and more fragile; however, it works great as a base layer.

Santini, MAAP, Pas Normal Studios. Source: santinicycling.com, wolfis.ae, pasnormalstudios.com

Padded bottoms

Whether you buy shorts, tights, or bibs (bottoms with suspenders), make sure you get the ones with padding — ideally, seamless ones with reflective elements to keep you visible in the dark. Be assured you will immediately see the difference in comfort, especially on bumpy roads. The cushioning should be uneven, with the thickest part placed under the sit bones.

Note that if you experience numbness while cycling with proper padding, the problem might be in your bike’s saddle and lack of support for your sit bones.

MAAP, PEdALED, Specialized. Source: wolfis.ae, pedaled.com, specialized.com

Helmets

If you think that wearing a helmet might be avoided, check one of Gordon Ramsey’s latest Instagram posts and admit that having this humble piece of gear is non-negotiable. Straight after that, head to the nearest bike shop to get one for yourself.

The main rule with helmets is simple: you need one that sits snugly on your head, is comfortable to wear, and has a reliable buckle system.

Specialized, Pas Normal Studios, Canyon. Source: specialized.com, pasnormalstudios.com, canyon.com

Bike shoes

Of course, you can ride your bike wearing ordinary shoes, but if you hit the road regularly, the special ones might be a better option. Clipless shoes are beneficial for sprinting and pedalling efficiency, but might not be the best for recreational cycling as they are not ideal to walk in, so set your priorities.

UDog. Source: pedal.cc

Cycling glasses

Shopping for cycling glasses should be done considering the type of biking you are into and the needs this accessory is supposed to meet. For instance, if you only need protection from the wind and rain, a transparent model with a hydrophobic coating would do the best. However, for rides in changing weather conditions or intense sun exposure, you might need photochromic or polarised frames.

Tip: for better vision and wind protection, go for the mono-lenses and choose glasses with a nose pad for a more stable fit.

Oakley, 100%, Oakley. Source: wolfis.ae

Cycling socks

Like many other elements of sportswear, cycling socks are generally a matter of personal preference. Still, some minimal requirements exist, such as moisture absorption, breathability, thermal insulation, and compression.

To achieve these characteristics, search for polyester, nylon, elastane, or merino wool in fabric composition.

Gloves or mittens

Even though gloves are normally an accessory for colder seasons, a cyclist should wear them all year round for possible fall protection. Consider breathable fingerless mittens for the summer season and thicker full-finger gloves for the winter. A pair should also fit your biking style: off-road gloves, for example, are equipped with a grip on the fingers.

Wind- and waterproof jacket

If you venture to cycle in cold or rainy weather, you can’t go without a wind- and waterproof jacket. Use it as a part of the three-layer system on top of a base topped by a jersey.

Your jacket's sleeves should be long enough to keep your arms covered while riding down, and the collar should be equipped with a high, soft lining to protect the neck from the wind. Some models also have pit zips under the arms to improve ventilation, which is very convenient in changing weather.

Tip: check for compact, lightweight models that can be packed down small and carried in your pocket.

Rapha. Source: rapha.cc

Warmers

When in doubt about which gear works best for the transitional season, bring arm, knee, or leg warmers while going for a ride. Lightweight and easy to put on and remove, they are a great way to warm up without changing the whole outfit.

Cycling caps

Another seasonal must-have is a cycling cap that you can wear under your helmet to prevent your ears and head from freezing. These caps come in various designs, materials, and properties, such as water resistance. However, the primary need the cap should fulfill is to fit perfectly.

by Sana Bun