The Best Cycling Knickers

The Best Cycling Knickers
Photo Credit Mannequin legs image by Tasha from Fotolia.com

What To Look For

Quality cycling knickers offer streamlined riding clothing in pants stopping just beneath the knee. The short legs of knickers never catch in greasy bicycle chains. Cycling knickers incorporate crotch panels without seams for saddle comfort when all-day cycling. The Swrve, an urban cycling outfitter, website lists several quality knickers. Swrve makes lightweight summer knickers as well as insulated or water and wind repellent knickers for less seasonable riding. Rivendell Bicycle Works site sells quality lightweight MUSA---Made in the USA---cycling knickers for far less but offers no heavier knickers option.

Common Pitfalls

Purchase knickers fitting comfortably. Too snug will restrict movement. Too large will catch wind, hinder cycling speed and tire riders quickly. Knickers designed for winter wear will often pair with additional layers. Decide whether to layer under or over knickers and size accordingly.

Cyclists utilizing knickers for colder weather must cover calves and shins appropriately. Use a combination of wind resistant cycling tights, leg warmers, or heavy wool socks to stay warm. Winter boots or cold weather cycling shoes work best for off-season cycling.

Where To Buy

Many local bicycle shops and online retailers stock cycling knickers. Both Swrve and Rivendell sell knickers directly to consumers from web sites. Browse Swrve offerings at Swrvestore.com. Rivendell Bicycle Works offers knickers and several other cycling accessories at Rivbike.com. Many local bicycle shops stock cycling clothing and provide changing rooms for fitting.

Cost

Rivendell Bicycle Works MUSA Knickers sell for an affordable $60. Swrve offers knickers, USA manufactured, for male and female riders. Basic cotton knickers cost $80 to $90. Water and wind repellent knickers sell for $100 to $125. Winter softshell knickers sell for $120 to $125. Both Rivendell Bicycle Works and Swrve offer shorts and pants specifically designed for cycling needs. Rivendell MUSA Pants sell for $64. MUSA Shorts cost $43. Swrve sells a variety of pants from $100 to $175. Swrve shorts sell for $75 to $100. Ensure return policies if unsure of fit or ordering online.

References

Article reviewed by TheronN Last updated on: Dec 8, 2010

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