Wearing comfortable outdoor or athletic clothing, such as breathable and moisture-wicking, can save on bike clothing costs. However, adding reflective wear or elements is essential for mountain-bike-only trails where vehicles aren’t present. For casual riding, choose closed-toe, flexible sneakers with a good grip. For longer rides or competitive cycling, invest in cycling shoes that clip onto the pedals for improved efficiency and control.
When choosing bike riding outfits, opt for durable and easy-to-move fabrics. Consider wearing a t-shirt, leggings, sneakers, and a sweatshirt that can be tucked into your bike basket or backpack if needed. Dressy casual attire like tailored chinos and a smart polo can also be suitable for casual rides.
When freshening up at your destination, use grooming wipes or change of clothes. Choose clothes that don’t restrict the movement of your arms and legs. Clothing like jeans, tight-fitting dresses, or trousers can restrict movement.
A stylish selection of casual cycling clothing includes waterproof jackets, arm and leg warmers, MTB baggie shorts, cycling gloves, cycling vests, bike socks, cycling caps, and cycling glasses. An oversized button-down shirt with a matching bottom, like the Song of Style Avery shirt with matching shorts, or a stylish selection of outerwear and hats is a great way to stay comfortable on the ride to work.
📹 What to Wear for Winter Bike Commuting | Athletic Wear vs Casual Wear
When the weather gets cold, it can be tough to figure out how to dress for winter bike commuting. Here, we break down the pros …
How do you wear your hair when cycling?
A basic ponytail is a classic on-bike hairstyle that can be secured with a hair elastic in the center of the head. A high ponytail may not fit a helmet properly, so place the helmet on the head and pull loose hair through the webbing. A versatile head scarf or go-to headband can be used as a headband to keep hair out of the way, cover hair while commuting, and keep you warm during colder months. There are various ways to use a head scarf, such as wrapping hair with a ponytail or wrapping it around without an elastic. It’s crucial to ensure a helmet fits safely and securely over your hairstyle when adding accessories for commuting.
Is it better to ride in jeans or leggings?
For English-style riders, jeans are the best choice due to their durability and convenience. Western riders prefer jeans for trail rides as they protect their legs from sharp brush. Riding leggings, made of thinner, stretchy material, are more comfortable and durable but may wear out quicker. Breeches and Jodhpurs are more formal and made of thicker material, with zips and closures, and are preferred for events and shows. Breeches are more formal than leggings and are suitable for both casual and formal riding.
Can you lose weight casually riding a bike?
Cycling offers numerous benefits for weight loss, including increased activity, calorie burn, heart health improvement, and fitness growth. However, the key to weight loss lies in combining a healthy diet with cycling. The adage “you can’t out-train a bad diet” is true, as cycling can help you lose weight when combined with a healthy diet. The key is to get the right workout, every time with training that adapts to you, as cycling can help you lose weight when combined with a healthy diet.
Can you wear leggings to cycling?
Wearing cycling shorts or athletic leggings for women during spin classes is recommended for comfort and freedom of movement. These tight-fitting garments reduce friction and ensure a smooth ride without discomfort. When shopping for fabric, opt for moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry and comfortable. Consider padded chamois in shorts for extra cushioning. To add flair, pair your shorts or leggings with a vibrant and breathable tank top.
Choose fun patterns or bold colors that resonate with your style to feel and look good while exercising. This combination will not only make you feel comfortable but also look fantastic during your workout.
What is cycling etiquette?
State trails cycling etiquette involves yielding to other users, obeying trail rules, staying to the right, passing slower traffic on their left, and yielding to oncoming traffic when passing. Always look ahead and behind when passing, travel at a responsible speed, and do not trespass on private property. When entering and crossing the trail, yield to other users and do not disturb wildlife.
By law, cyclists must give a clear warning signal when passing, even using a bell. They must also watch out for traffic at road crossings and obey all traffic signals. When stopping, signal by putting your fist at the small of your back. Helmets are required by Florida law for cyclists and equestrians under 16 and are recommended for all ages. Remember, all animal and plant life is protected in Florida State Parks.
What do female cyclists wear?
To ensure a comfortable cycling experience, consider the following gear: padded waist shorts or bib shorts, chamois shorts, a sweat-wicking sports top, or a cycling-specific jersey. These shorts are designed to prevent chafing and improve aerodynamics. A sweat-wicking sports top with built-in pockets is recommended. A wind-proof jacket and gloves are also essential for wind chill. Additional gear like waterproof jacket, booties, arm warmers, and leg warmers can be helpful depending on the weather and climate. Trainers or cycling cleats are recommended depending on whether you use flat pedals or clip-ins. These gear should be carefully considered and selected based on your specific needs and preferences.
Why do bikers roll one pant leg?
Wearing serious bike gear is not only for intense bikers, but also for school and back rides. Wear light, vibrant colors in the dark, and clothes that fit close to your body to avoid getting caught in the chain. Flowy skirts are not recommended for bike riding. Roll up one leg of your pants, especially on the side where the crank or chain is, to avoid getting caught and dirty. When choosing a bike, consider your riding type and don’t let someone sell you something you don’t need or won’t use. Local bike shops can help you find the right bike for your style and height. There are three different types of bikes.
Can you wear pants while biking?
Bike pants, tights, and warmers are essential cycling gear for cooler temperatures. Some come with built-in chamois, wind protection, and windproof panels, while others are less protective but more aerodynamic. Some cycling pants have streetwear features like stretch fabric and a reflective cuff on the chain-side leg. These pants can be worn off the bike and are stylish enough for urban destinations. Bike jerseys are stretchy, breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying, with a form-fitting aerodynamic cut.
Casual shirt styles are also available, with features like tall or flip-up collars, front zippers, wider shoulders, back pockets, longer backs, and reflective trim for night riding. These items can be worn with or without the bike, making them versatile and comfortable for various cycling activities.
Is it OK to bike in jeans?
Long, flowy garments, particularly jeans, can be uncomfortable on bikes in rainy weather. Tight, non-stretch items, such as skinny jeans, also restrict movement. For those who value cycling time in the morning and evening but want to wear normal clothes, polo shirts are a great option. They are light, airy, dry quickly, and universally accepted. Polo shirts are available in various styles, from cheap to chic, and are suitable for both morning and evening wear.
What to wear when cycling casually?
For casual outings, wear a T-shirt, leggings, sneakers, and sunglasses. Layer a sweatshirt or bike basket for colder days. A backpack is essential for extra storage. Stay hydrated with a Stanley tumbler and quencher carry-all. Countryside getaways can be achieved with neutral-colored pieces, but choose materials that aren’t wrinkle-prone. Countryside outfits can be paired with a Stanley tumbler and a matching quencher carry-all. Style Meets Story shares recommendations that we love.
📹 How To Choose Mountain Bike Clothing!
Having some essential MTB gear with you when out on a ride can really help you when you’re in a pickle, but with so much choice …
I’m in the Adirondacks and bike to work nearly every day during the winter (~10km one-way). I never wear more than three layers, the base layer and socks are always wool, wind/weatherproof REFLECTIVE outer layer, waterproof hiking boots, buff around the neck, clear goggles/balaclava/ski helmet on the really cold days, pogies on the handlebars, and a change of clothes in the backpack. And lights. Lots and lots of lights.
Being that I work from home (and am essentially retired), I don’t need to commute to work so don’t really need to go that route; however, I think you’re making great points about the difference in approaches to cycling, esp relevant to winter. I’m beginning to think about getting another bike, ie one that would be for errand I got: eg going to the grocery store for a small shopping trip. I have a Specialized Allez Elite with retrofitted Ultegra Di2 group set (really for exercise and fun) and riding with a backpack full of groceries isn’t my idea of fun…
Warm Hands & Feet Are Happy Hands And Feet and I can not stress that fact enough. Colorado Winter Commuting Essentials On your hands: -Silk or Merino Wool Liner Gloves (preferably the cell phone compatible ones) -Three Finger Mittens for braking and shifting (preferably waterproof and made with gore tex for durability) -A set of Handlebar Pogies (when the temperature gets below 40 degrees Fahrenheit and your commute is longer than two miles RT. Note: line them with faux-fur and they are divine, no seriously) -Packs of Handwarmers (if all else fails) On your feet: Any shoe will do, cycling or otherwise – it’s what’s inside and outside the shoe that count. -Waterproof socks (they really work) or at least a good pair of Merino Wool Mid-Weight Socks -A reputable pair of neoprene Shoe Covers (costly, but worth it and best of all – they protect your shoes from the road elements, mud, water, chemicals) -Knee or Ankle Gators (essential during and after rain or snow storms – tire fenders on your bicycle help, but they don’t catch everything and very often fenders must be removed during heavier snow accumulations) On your body: (3 layers) -Merino wool base layer (merino wool so you don’t stink and you stay warm) -Some-type of synthetic breathable fabric (preferably with a 3/4 zipper for ventilation) -A *windproof/waterproof lightweight shell (with no hood and preferably with a windproof/waterproof full zipper and reflective patches for safety) On your head: -Merino Wool Buff and Beanie or Gore full face balaclava -A good helmet equipped with a headlamp (commutes home are often after dark) -A pair of snowboarding goggles with clear lens (a must during rain or snow storms) *Special Note: it is of my opinion and from my 30+ years of experience getting lost in the Colorado wilderness that even today in the year 2020 there is no such thing as a Waterproof and Breathable fabric.
Wow, 6 layers of athletic clothing? I was going to say I usually only do three layers (base layer, thermal layer, and softshell outer layer) and that is sufficient enough, but then again I don’t live as far north as Canada! I find that dressing for the destination is the most convenient as long as you don’t overdress. Staying cool is the toughest part. I’ll wear a hybrid of clothes, like cycling gloves, a skull cap or balaclava, cycling glasses and helmet, but the convenience of not having to change when you get to work is worth it (especially for a short commute). The only thing I haven’t quite figured out is how to stay cool in the summer… it is impossible, regardless how slow I pedal. I just wear cycling kit and change when I get to work in the summer.
You seem to prefer dark colored clothes rather than choosing fluorescent (day glow) and reflective tape on your gear including your bike. Why take the chance with distracted drivers, especially when we have less daylight in the winter months? Sensible winter clothing choices should provide protection from the elements, warmth, safety and take practicality into consideration. What about packing for abrupt weather changes or variable temperature changes from your morning to afternoon commute or afternoon commute to night commute?
It depends if you are only riding 1 mile(1.6km) to work or you are a real bicycle rider and riding 15 miles(24+Km) one way to work. If you are only riding 1 mile listen to this guy. If you are riding more, you will need bicycle wear for no chaffing.. Make sure you are wearing multiple layers and the top layer is always cold gear. Then wear a very warm jacket, enough to keep you warm if you were standing still, if the temp is only a degree or two above freezing or less. Less than 5F degrees below freezing then the water droplets in your lungs start to freeze and causes a burning sensation an can make you even shorter on breath. I ride to work at 17 to 19+ miles an hour and don’t sweat to much. I change in the bathroom at work. I have a motorcycle tank bag that I fill with my work clothes and use bungy cords to secure it in the frame between my legs. A must though is covering all exposed skin except for your nose and mouth. I always wear glasses and that does a good job of covering my eyes. Your mileage may vary.
I see your Priority Continuum is serving you well thanks to your article pertaining to your perfect winter bike I was introduced to Priority and made the decision to purchase the Priority 600 this past November. I must say that I am so pleased it is the perfect bike for my needs here in Ontario whether it is spring, winter, summer, or fall really enjoying it. I am leaning towards purchasing a pair of ski goggles for the winter, right now I just wear sun glasses or a pair of safety glasses.
Don’t buy all the “cyclist” crap to commute, it’s overpriced will make you look like a clown and you can do as well with “regular” cloth. Cyclist gear makes sense for competitions… All you need is some good shoes and gloves to keep your extremities warm and a waterproof ski jacket that you can open or close to regulate the air flow as you ride so you don’t sweat like a beast. You can remove under layers depending on the weather. Or even better a down jacket and a cyclist cape and pants for rainy days. (remove some under-layer before putting the cape and adjust the air flow so you don’t sweat to much.
So I dont commute to “work” (being disabled I dont do that) but being Canadian I just dress as if Im going out for a good old snowball fight or ice fishing without a hut. Thermal longjohns 1st layer. Jeans, tshit and hoodie, warm socks to start. Winter jacket, touque under the helmet, and good gloves that stay dry in a snowball fight, ski pants and winter boots. Stay plenty warm
Thanks for the article, but unfortunately, this didn’t help me at all. I know I could dress as a cyclist, and also I know I could dress like I do everyday. This could be said in 10 seconds 🙂 I’m still looking for the smart tips on how to dress, as you say, “for the work” (not having to change completely at work etc.) with few clever pieces of apparel/clothing – so I stay warm EVERYWHERE, so my knees are not freezing, so there’s no holes, where cold air get in and the list goes on and on.Simply dressing for work and bike – this doesn’t work under 8°C. If you have any recommendations, I would be glad to hear them! Still looking for the ultimate, functional yet minimalist way to “upgrade” my everyday work outfit, so I can commute in warm. Have a nice day!
When I started again about a year ago I was wearing Jeans, a hoodie and some street shoes. The only specific thing was my new helmet. With time passing bye I invested in some Jerseys (O’Neal, Scott), proper trousers for summer, spring and winter rides (Endura), gloves for summer and winter (100%), a jacket for cold rainy days (Fox) and some shoes for flat padels (O’Neal). When I approached the first bike park I got some knee and shoulder pads (O’Neal). Just recently after some very muddy rides I bought some MTB glasses (Kapvoe, based on Blakes recomendation 😁). My wife was mocking about this quite a bit, until she started jogging again, and got some new pants here, some shirts and a jacket there, a small hip bag, and and and 😉
Shorts and short sleeve jerseys. Along with some flat pedal shoes and an open faced helmet. I live in Kansas and starting in a couple of months, it’s going to get hot. So I also have some Under Armour shirts to wear under the jersey. I have winter gear as well, including goggles. Right now I just use the goggles and a balaklava if I’m going to deal with wind in the winter.