The clothing you wear while biking makes an impact on your overall comfort and bike riding. Restrictive clothing may cause difficulty during your ride. Whether riding leisurely, for exercise or for a commute, dedicated bicycle clothing is a sound investment for many people. Different options exist for bicycling, allowing you to find a clothing option ideal for your preferences and bike riding style. Test different options to find the best choice for you.
Step 1
Define your typical bike-riding style and weather conditions. Choose bike clothing that works well in those conditions. For example, if you ride in a windy or rainy climate, choose a cycling jacket as part of your gear.
Step 2
Purchase a bike jersey made from a tight-fitting material such as Spandex for less wind resistance. Choose the style of bike jersey that makes you feel most comfortable such as one that resembles a T-shirt. Look for a shirt with a longer back, stand-up collar and reflective areas to make you more visible.
Step 3
Try different styles of biking shorts to find the most comfortable pair. Choose biking shorts with a longer leg, plenty of stretch and a padded liner for the most comfort. Consider bicycling bib shorts or skorts for alternative styles.
Step 4
Purchase biking tights if you ride in colder weather. Choose tights with weather-resistant material and reflective areas for a safer and more comfortable ride.
Step 5
Buy a pair of biking shoes that match your biking style. For recreational riding or commuting, choose a hybrid shoe that looks more like a regular, casual shoe. REI recommends a lightweight, slick-soled shoe for road biking. Choose a more durable sole for riding on rough terrain.
Step 6
Purchase socks made from synthetic or merino wool to control moisture from perspiration.
Step 7
Decide if you want a pair of short finger biking gloves to wear for summer riding. Purchase a pair of full-finger gloves that are breathable and wick away moisture for colder climates.
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