Introduction To Bicycle Clothing

Cycling clothing is characteristic in its appearance and as such cyclists are often recognised for the tight-fitting garments they wear while on the bike. The clothing worn by riders varies according to the discipline they ride and the time of year, and is designed to satisfy several aspects of the sport – to enhance comfort, protect riders from climatic conditions and minimise damage to the body in case of an accident. Different seasons call for appropriate changes in clothing, and there are a range of options available for a variety of conditions – we’ll look at the types of clothing riders can wear at various times of the year. We’ll also examine the basic differences between garments that serve the same purpose but work in varying ways.

Who wears what?

For the purposes of this article we’ll deal mainly with road cyclists, who typically wear a figure-fitting jersey and shorts with a padded insert. Cross country mountain bikers and endurance track cyclists will also wear this type of outfit during training and races.

Why wear tight clothing?

The most common question asked by non-cyclists is: ‘Why do riders wear such tight clothing?’ The answer is simple: muscle compression and comfort. The former aids in performance while the latter comes via the low weight and figure-hugging nature of cycling clothes. By eliminating loose sections of a garment it is made more comfortable and creates less drag as a rider passes through the air. Essentially, the ideal situation is to feel as though you’re wearing nothing. Keeping muscles compressed promotes enhanced blood flow, which in turn allows them to work at an optimal rate for longer.