Tips For Selecting Cycling Shorts And Jerseys
If you are new to cycling, you might be surprised by all of the gear that is recommended to you. Surprisingly enough, most of it is necessary if you want to be a serious cyclist. To help you find the right gear, here are a few suggestions to keep in mind about the cycling jerseys and bike shorts while shopping.
Bike Jerseys
Your jersey plays a major part in how comfortable you are while cycling. If it is too clingy or itchy, your rides could seem unbearable. The same could be said if you opt for a jersey that does not allow oxygen to flow in and out of the fabric.
Cycling jerseys are made in a wide variety of fabrics, but spandex is usually considered the best option. The spandex not only helps to keep the moisture off of your skin, but it helps to prevent drag while riding. The reduced moisture means you are less likely to feel overheated and itchy during your rides.
There are some features you should look for in your jerseys to help make your rides more pleasant. For instance, if you opt for a collar that stands up, it can shield your neck during the summertime, which can prevent sunburn. During the cold weather days, you can switch to jersey with long sleeves.
In addition to considering the weather when selecting your jersey, think about the time of day you are riding. If you are planning to bike at night, a jersey with reflective highlights will help make you visible to others.
Bike Shorts
The bike shorts play an equally important part when it comes to your comfort while riding. Ideally, the shorts should allow you to move freely, while keeping you free from moisture that can lead to irritation and discomfort. As with the cycling jerseys, spandex is a good option.
There are several features that you should look for in your shorts to increase your comfort levels. For instance, if you opt for grippers on the shorts, you can avoid chafing that sometimes result from the fabric rubbing against the seat during rides.
You should also look into different styles of bike shorts. For instance, bib shorts are considered to be more comfortable than regular bike shorts because they do not have an elastic waistband. The elastic waistband can sometimes feel restrictive during rides, which can make it more challenging to pedal long distances.
Consult with a cycling gear specialist to further explore your options for finding comfortable clothing.
