Having the proper attire for biking can make a huge difference in the experience you have while riding. Correct clothing material and the right amount of layering keeps you warm and dry. Here is a little information on some materials used in cycling clothing:
Clothing Materials
- Lycra/spandex
- Shorts and tights are usually made of this combination of materials
- Stretches with your body and supports muscle groups
- Smooth material prevents chafing from saddle
- Coolmax
- Wicks moisture away from skin to surface where it evaporates
- Great for warm riding or as a first layer for cold days; light and compressible
- Usually used in jerseys, headbands and hats
- Wool
- Merino wool is soft but expensive; natural anti-bacterial properties
- Wool is great for socks, jerseys, leg and arm warmers, shorts and tights
- Wool keeps you warm even when wet; tends to get heavy when full of moisture
- Gore-tex
- Waterproof, windproof and breathable material used in a lot of raingear
- Socks, hats, jackets, rain pants, shoes; almost everything can be made with it
- Expensive; ventilation and layering are still important in cold, wet conditions
- Nylon
- Used in shell of most baggy-style shorts; durable, lightweight and dries quickly
- Can be soft and flexible or rugged and durable; used for panniers and seat bags
- Used in shoes for ventilation and hydration packs for durability; many uses
