Bike apparel is made of synthetic fabrics like Lycra, spandex, and nylon. Some upscale renditions also include true-to-life materials, like merino wool. These cycling garments are developed to combine moisture, aerodynamics, and heat management for a better rocky mountain cycling experience. In addition, many brands market performance lines for competitive cyclists and recreational lines for hobbyists.
Both offer many advantages.
However, performance apparel is typically more lightweight and aerodynamic, while recreational lines are usually more durable and comfortable. But this begs the question: what garments do you need to properly layer for your rocky mountain cycles? Keep reading to find
out.
Biking-Specific Jerseys
Cycling jerseys are made for form and function. They offer a form-fitting design, wicking material, pockets for stockpiling tools or snacks, and more. Many jerseys also offer reflective material threaded into the fabric for more visibility. Short-sleeve jerseys are most suitable for warm-weather cycling. But as the temperature falls, long-sleeve jerseys become ideal as they sport a weightier threaded material to permit sound insulation while still maintaining their sweat-wicking effects.
Cycling Shorts
Biking shorts were developed to stretch as you move. Typically, they have gripping fabric on the legs to stop the shorts from travelling up and frequently offer a padded stool to boost comfort during extended periods on the saddle. Moreover, the padding (also referred to as a “chamois”) is usually made from multi-density synthetic foam or gel padding. They come in various forms and dimensions based on the producer and gender using them.
Cycling Bibs
Cycling bibs have straps that go over your shoulder and are typically sported underneath a jersey, which causes them to look like regular shorts. However, many cyclists report being more comfortable wearing them as they lack the waistband on standard bike shorts.
Cycling Jackets
Before choosing a jacket, you must consider where and in what season you’ll be cycling. For example, winter cycling will demand a different type of jacket compared to wet spring cycling. So ask yourself; do you require a jacket that will ensure you remain dry, warm, or both? Softshell jackets ensure the wind stays out and typically show water protection capacity but may not protect against heavier rain.
A completely waterproof jacket with taped hems will ensure you remain dry but not heated unless it retains insulation properties. Some jackets do both. Do your homework or call a local store to see which jackets best serve your requirements.
Helmets
Helmets keep you safe and ensure you’re warm. Typically, you will pick between 3 different helmets: Multiuse, mountain bike, and road bike-style helmets. Let’s take a closer look at each:
- Multiuse helmet: The least expensive helmet will be multiuse helmets, which are very effective for hobbyists and everyday commuters.
- Mountain biking helmets: These helmets are usually developed with integrated visors and better rear head coverage relative to other helmets.
- Road biking helmets: Road biking helmets are devised as aerodynamic and lightweight alternatives. They also offer adequate ventilation.
Cycling Accessories
Once the essentials are covered, it’s time to move on to the accessories. The quality of your
rocky mountain cycling experience can be enhanced tenfold when you have the right cycling additions.
Gloves
Gloves are great for any season—not just the frigid winter. For example, short-fingered gloves are perfect for warm-weather excursions, while long-fingered gloves are suitable for chillier weather conditions or even mountain biking! Many gloves are created from some mixture of synthetic and leather fabrics, and they usually offer palm padding for a more enjoyable riding experience.
Arm and Leg Warmers
Arm and leg warmers are excellent for those colder season bike rides when you’re unsure of the weather’s behaviour. Generally, these are made of wool, fleece, or synthetic fabric and can easily fit in a bike bag or jersey pocket. Leg warmers are sported on your knees and lower legs, while arm warmers shield the wrist to the upper arm. Moreover, arm and leg warmers are created to protect susceptible skin where the jerseys or bike shorts end and are a fantastic addition if the weather reverses suddenly.
Helmet Covers
Helmet covers are great for nippier temperatures or conditions requiring less ventilation. They are typically created of synthetic fabrics that can extend over most helmets.
Next Step: Layer up and Plan Your Rocky Mountain Cycling Excursion!
Rocky mountain cycling is exhilarating! But to get the most out of your experience, the proper garments, clothing, and layering are necessities. As a result, you’ll want to do your due diligence when searching for the right gear and clothing for your cycling adventures. At
Rocky Mountain Cycling Tours, we are a passionate team of devoted outdoor adventure seekers.
We have been offering hiking and cycling tours to regional and international travellers for 5 decades.
Contact us today if you’re ready to plan your cycling adventure.
