Cycling clothing

The common thing about the two sports is that you enjoy both on a bike, and that’s about it. The clothes you need are very different. Cyclists swear on lycra shirts and cycling shorts: an extremely stretchy material that fits closely to the skin for the best aero performance possible. 

Mountain bikers who are also looking for speed (think Mathieu van der Poel and Tom Pidcock) also choose lycra. But those who want to really get stuck into the more technical and gnarly stuff by getting closer to trees and rocks will benefit more from clothing that is a bit looser. The loose fit gives them more freedom of movement. The material used for the trousers is also stronger than Lycra, which is useful if you fall or if branches rub against your legs. The trousers are often equipped with inner trousers to offer all the benefits of a chamois. And if they don’t have inner trousers? Simply buy a pair of cycling underwear with chamois as well. 

The summer requirements are different to the winter. The following overview will help you comfortably get out about on your bike all year round:

• Spring: Temperatures in spring vary from day to day. So flexibility is key. In any case, you can leave the shorts at home until the temperatures reach at least 15 degrees. If you decide to wear shorts anyway, it’s always a good idea to take a pair of leg warmers to be sure. Wear a plain short sleeve cycling jersey, with a wind vest if required. If you are too cold, wear a layer of thermal underwear. Arm warmers are always useful as well.
• Summer: Summer is actually the easiest season to dress on a bike. It’s nice and warm so you can simply make do with shorts and a cycling shirt with short sleeves. Thermal underwear helps keep you cool. And don’t forget: gloves. They provide more grip – especially if you have sweaty hands – and protection if you fall. 
• Autumn: temperatures in autumn can quickly drop below 15 degrees. A cycling shirt with long sleeves is therefore not considered a luxury. Wear a thermal underlay under your shirt, to keep you extra warm and to quickly wick away your sweat. And if you can't decide between long and short trousers? Then choose shorts with extra leg pieces. In autumn, don’t forget your overshoes and raincoat. They will keep the cold and wet out. 
• Winter: winter is a great time to get outside, and there’s nothing stopping you. Use the cyclists’ three-layer system and enjoy a ride in comfort and warmth. First choose undergarments with long sleeves as your first layer in contact with your skin. Then wear a cycling jersey with long sleeves, and finally a winter proof cycling jacket. The legs prefer long trousers, the feet will be happy if you choose overshoes, while the head will thank you if you wear a cap under your helmet.

Would you rather be moving through traffic than standing still in a jam? Smart choice. The right cycling clothing and accessories will help make your daily rides a lot more comfortable and safer. A few tips:

• Dress in layers: combine three technical layers of clothing, depending on the weather. From thermal underwear to a fleece and a cycling jacket. 
• Wear a helmet: Choose a helmet that fits like a glove.
• Choose smart accessories: gloves for extra grip, a cap to prevent cold ears, overshoes to keep your feet dry. 
• Always be visible: make yourself easy to spot with bicycle lights and reflective clothing and accessories.