>Cycling-Specific Clothing

What is the advantage of cycling-specific clothing?

More often than not, cycling-specific clothing is made with advanced synthetic materials that have a "wicking" attribute. This means that they wick moisture and perspiration away from your body and to the outermost layer of the fabric, where it can evaporate easily, keeping you dry and comfortable.

On a long ride, there is no question that a cycling jersey will control your temperature more effectively than a t-shirt. Most cycling shorts have a "chamois" or pad built into the crotch to provide added comfort while riding. Even baggy cycling shorts often have a built-in inner short with a chamois.

>Fit: Mountain vs. Road Styles

What are the attributes of apparel designed for mountain bikers versus road riders?

Mountain styles are usually baggier and have a more casual feel than road-specific styles. While roadies prefer tight-fitting Lycra shorts, many mountain bikers opt for the more off-the-bike appropriate baggy shorts. Road jerseys are tight fitting, almost always very colorful, have a longer back. While mountain jerseys will have a more casual appearance and may be more understated in terms of color (but not always) and are usually made of knitty type of material. Of course, these are generalizations ¨C wear what you are most comfortable in. There are plenty of roadies who ride dirt and lots of mountain bikers who train on the road.

>Cut: Sleeves, drop tails, etc.

How is cycling apparel cut to be comfortable for riding?

Cycling apparel is designed for your position on the bike. For example, jerseys and jackets often have a ¡°drop tail¡±, where the back lower hem of the jersey is lower than the front lower hem. This is so you have full coverage when you are leaning over your bike in a typical riding stance. Raglan sleeves are one-piece sleeves that are incorporated into the shoulder area of the garment, extending down from the collar and can be a comfortable cut for riding clothes. By contrast, set in sleeves have a seam at the shoulder, and are still the standard for many cycling and casual designs.

>Materials: Coolmax, Feildsensor, DryLete, etc.

What kind of fabric is cycling apparel made from?

Typically, riding gear is made from advanced synthetic materials. These are often polyesters designed for a specific purpose. Coolmax, for example, is thin, breathable polyester designed to wick moisture away from your body and transport it to the outer layer of the garment where it can easily evaporate. Coolmax garments are exceptionally comfortable for riding during the summer months. Feildsensor and DryLete are two advanced Lycra polyesters that are often used in the production of shorts, tights, and the like. They are stretchable, durable, fade-resistant, and easy to care for. Apparel made from these sorts of advanced materials are invariably more comfortable for long rides than standard casual wear, and they will last substantially longer than inexpensive cotton basics.