Monday, August 24, 2009

Bicycle Clothing: What Cycling Gear to Wear and When

By William Burrell

Those who ride bikes a lot know that you can choose from a big choice of cycling gear out there. Knowing what to get for yourself means that you have to think of a few questions first:

What kind of gear is required by law? What gear will be the most comfortable for me as I cycle? What gear is best for summer and what gear is best for winter?

Cycling store employees should be able to help you answer these questions as you look to purchase new or updated cycling clothing.

What do I need by law? Practically all governments have regulations for what you need to wear on your head. Helmets are a must sometimes for everyone and other times for certain age groups. A well fitting bicycle helmet has the capacity to save your life and it doesnt matter whether you are street cycling or mountain cycling. Don't forget to wear one.

Though not specifically required by law, many state cycling groups recommend wearing reflective clothing when biking as well. This is another safety benefit, ensuring you are able to be seen by cars and pedestrians.

What gear will provide the most comfort for the bicycling I plan to do? Having a variety of clothing for cycling is recommended as what you need is based on how long your ride and wear. Cycling shorts are great for longer rides. They help to keep you cool while you are exerting yourself on the roadway.

They also wick away moisture so you feel cool and comfortable. A sleeveless cycling jersey is an excellent choice for warm weather biking and is recommended for summer use.

If you are a mountain biker, you may wish to go for a long-sleeve cycling jersey to protect yourself from branches and trees. They are often made of comfortable, synthetic fabric that helps keep you at the proper temperature. It can both hold in and wick away heat, depending on the conditions.

What should I do about changing weather conditions? People who cycle a lot generally do so regardless of the weather. You might also be one who uses a bicycle as a major form of transportation. Either way, you'll need to think about cold and hot weather gear. You'll need to have a cycling jacket for cold days or a wool cycling jersey. Both of these will keep cool air out and keep you warm on the inside.

Windproof jackets are also available for wind and rain protection. Coupled with cycling pants or knee warmers, which keep your knees and legs warm and flexible, these items will help you have a pleasant ride, even when the weather is less than ideal.

As the weather warms, your cycling apparel should mirror what you would wear on long rides. Good cycling or bib shorts and a sleeveless jersey will keep you comfortable and cool. You may want to carry a lightweight, compact cycling jacket with you in case your ride goes later in the evening than you anticipated or you start out your ride early in the morning.

There are a number of jackets available that can be easily stowed when the temperature rises. Cycling jacket made of breathable material that incorporates ventilation, like mesh vents, in the fabric are ideal.

You can choose from a variety of cycling gear knowing that you needn't buy everything. Talk to a sales representative and find out what you really need to have out there on the bike. If you are an avid cycler, however, you'll probably have a wide selection of all weather gear to choose from.

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