When you’re cycling, bike-specific clothing makes all the difference in your ride. The garments you wear are key to keeping you comfortable, safe and focused on the experience. Some things to consider: different temperatures, the environment you’re riding in and the time of day. Keep reading to learn what to wear cycling—from clothing to shoes to essential accessories.
A woman rides a stationary bike. A woman and man ride bikes outside.
The Staples
There are a few essentials every cyclist should own, whether you’re new to the sport or just upgrading your biking wardrobe. Comfortable outdoor or athletic clothing is appropriate, but cycling clothes are designed with distinctive features to enhance your ride.
Bike Helmet
First, choose a bike helmet that matches the type of cycling you’ll be doing: recreational, road or mountain. Each style will offer a different level of protection and ventilation.
Next, ensure it fits your head properly. The front edge should sit no more than one inch above your eyebrows, and the helmet should feel snug enough that moving it around wrinkles the skin at your temples.
Sunglasses
You’ll need sunglasses to protect your eyes from both the sun’s glare and nuisances like bugs and dust. Look for a comfortable pair you can wear all year round in a wide range of conditions. Make sure you find the right pair for you.
Bike Jerseys
A great cycling jersey is breathable, form fitting and moisture wicking. It’s typically designed with a front zipper and a longer hem for back coverage.
Bonus points go to ones that feature built-in pockets and reflective elements for nighttime visibility.
Bike Shorts & Pants
When shopping for bike shorts and pants, look for ease of movement, compression and fit.
The chamois (pronounced “sha-mee”), or inside pad, is an essential feature that reduces friction, cushions the seat bones and wicks moisture.
Professional racers favor bib shorts as they don’t have a waistband, making them more comfortable while offering a more secure fit, thanks to the shoulder straps.
Bike Shoes & Covers
Stiff soles are best for road and mountain rides, giving you added traction and increased pedaling efficiency; casual biking shoes with softer soles look like sneakers and are comfier to walk in.
Clip-in (also called clipless) shoes attach to your pedals with a cleat on the sole. These are great for maximizing your energy while pedaling and helping you stay focused on the ride.
Cycling toe or shoe covers are helpful when riding in inclement weather. The heavy synthetic construction keeps out water and frigid air.
Cycling clothing and sneakers for warm weather. A woman rides a bike outside.
Hot-Weather Rides
Cycling in temperatures 70 degrees and up requires technical clothing and accessories that are lightweight and breathable. These essentials work hard to prevent heat exhaustion:
A moisture-wicking, antibacterial base layer that keeps you feeling fresh
Bib or bike shorts that are breathable and supportive
A classic short-sleeve jersey with a good amount of stretch
Fingerless bike gloves to enhance your grip and control
Socks made of merino wool or a synthetic material to cool your feet
Warm-Weather Rides
Approach dressing for cycling in 60- to 70-degree weather like you would for very hot temps. The recommendations are generally the same, with a few adjustments to fight wind chill:
Bib shorts that feature a mesh upper for support and stability
A lightweight vest to maintain your core heat
A short-sleeve jersey that wicks away moisture
Durable socks made of merino wool with ample ventilation
Fingerless bike gloves for added breathability
Arm and/or leg warmers when there’s a slight chill in the air
Cool-Weather Rides
Cycling in 50- to 60-degree weather means warmer fabrics and a few additional layers for enhanced coverage. You might not need thermal materials, but longer items are recommended:
Bib shorts plus leg or knee warmers to help maintain body temperature
A long-sleeve, noninsulated jersey with a relaxed fit
A cap or headband to prevent heat from escaping through your head
A wind-blocking jacket or vest that resists chill
Thick socks that hit above your ankles
Full-fingered gloves to keep your hands warm
Cold-Weather Rides
When cycling in temperatures below 50 degrees, go for three layers: a base layer, middle layer and outer layer. Your kit should include primarily wool or merino wool clothing and gear that traps the heat your body generates:
Base Layer
A moisture-wicking jersey designed to regulate your temperature
Thermal bib tights with a fleece interior for added warmth
Middle Layer
A long-sleeve jersey to protect your arms and core
Leg and arm warmers that are flexible and increase circulation
Outer Layer
A cycling jacket (preferably with a hood) that resists wind, rain and cold air
Full-fingered gloves that offer a numb-free grip
A performance skull cap for comfort under your helmet
Shoe covers to block out the wind, rain and cold
A woman rides a bike in the snow. Cycling clothing for cold weather.
Below-Freezing Rides
You’ll need to cover every inch of exposed skin when braving temperatures 32 degrees and under. Here’s what to wear cycling in winter:
Base Layer
A long-sleeve thermal shirt lined with fleece for extra warmth
Thermal bib tights offering both support and insulation
Two pairs of socks (a thin sport style and a wool pair) to prevent blisters
Tip: look for synthetic materials like nylon and polyester, as cotton takes a long time to dry.
Middle Layer
A long-sleeve jersey that has a sleek fit for optimal range of motion
Leg and arm warmers or soft, stretchy tights that shed water
A wind-blocking vest that offers your best defense for keeping extreme temps at bay
Outer Layer
A thermal cycling jacket that keeps out the wind and has high-visibility elements
Thick shoe covers for snow and water protection
Full-fingered gloves to fend off frostbite on sub-zero days
A thermal cap or beanie that gives you full coverage from the biting cold
A thermal cap or beanie that gives you full coverage from the biting cold
A balaclava with an ergonomic fit that’s well ventilated and prevents chafing
What to Wear to Spin Class
An indoor spin session can get steamy, so wear what you would on a hot-weather ride outdoors. What you’ll need:
Lightweight garments with heat-regulating and moisture-wicking properties
Padded bike shorts or underwear to cushion your bottom on the bike
Clipless spin shoes that are breathable and stabilize your pedaling
Cycling Accessories
You’ve learned what to wear when cycling and how to stock your starter wardrobe. Now it’s time to add some athletic gear and equipment:
A water bottle to stay hydrated
Sport earbuds with a comfy fit so you can listen to your cycling playlist
A bike bag that secures to the bike frame for on-the-go storage
A small bike repair kit for roadside adjustments
Sunscreen of at least SPF 30 for UVA/UVB protection
Feeling ready to cycle with confidence? Owning different bike clothing for unique situations is a worthy investment—whether you’re a casual rider or a pro cyclist. Save this comprehensive list for whenever you need to update your gear.
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