Cycling Jerseys

Welcome to CyclingJerseys.com

How to Select Cycling Clothing

1.    Quality - well made clothing is worth paying for; it should wash well and last 1-3 seasons depending on the number of days you ride and the number of total pieces.

2.    Technical Performance – select breathable comfortable fabrics that will protect you in all weather conditions.

3.    Fit – a flattering fit that is not too tight, not to loose.  Clothing should not chaff or irritate the skin and should not interfere with safety on the bike.

4.    Design – good features such as long zippers to aid in ventilation, 3 rear pockets to carry supplies, sleeves that are long enough to overlap arm warmers, comfortable waistlines and collars.

5.    Cooperation - all of your bike clothes should work together for best results. 

Elements to consider when Purchasing New Cycling Clothing

Quality

1.  Some brands are consistently dependable and good buys that should last you a long time.  We Recommend: Assos, Adidas, Castelli, Craft, and Descente. Take care of your gear and it is worth the price.

Technical /Function

1. The fabric should be comfortable on your skin, breathable, and allow for safe movement.  Read all the labels before you buy. Water resistant is not water proof. Water resistant may not be breathable, You want your clothing to work together and your goal should be fabric that allows for freedom of movement, breathability, wicking, and protection from the environment.  The old rule - "you get what you pay for", applies in cycling clothing.

Fit

1. Try Clothing on first.  Do not take a friends recommendation, every body is different. If you plan to buy online; compare sizing charts or better try the brand on first and then buy online, or be willing to return the item.  You will soon learn which brands fit you best. 

Design

1. "Do you really like it?" This is purely personal choice, but remember if you only intend to buy a few quality pieces, every piece counts. 

2. Before buying another piece of gear consider how it will work with all of your other pieces.  Size, color, purpose, "the look". It is so much easier to dress for cycling when all the pieces work together.

*Know Your Gear*

TIP: use all of your gear to know how it performs under different conditions. If you know your cycling apparel well, you will avoid epic rides in improper clothes. And you will be able to dress for a ride in minutes!

Tips on Buying Bike Shorts

Pad, Fit, Material

Cycling Shorts all fit differently and are an individual preference as important as shoes.  We offer some general tips on buying cycling shorts. 

For serious cyclists the big names are Castelli, Assos, Descente, Santini.  Good possibilities are Cannondale, Sugoi or Craft, they make some good products. The Pro Custom companies like Hincapie, Voler, etc are probably OK for men. Terry is good for some women.

For recreational cyclists consider Pearl Izumi, or the womens designer ones like Shebeest.  If you are interested in triathlons, the  thinner pads can be found in Tri shorts like Zoot or Louis Garneau.

Make sure the material and the pad is the latest “Pro” quality, the foam type pads allow you to keep riding in the wet weather, but some are much better than others.  You want the “wing” style pad, with few seams.  The material should be breathable, flexible yet stay in shape.

Once you find a style and fit that suits your body, budget, and ride (by trying on shorts in the store) – search for bargains and better prices online. Make sure the material and the pad is the latest “Pro” quality, the foam type pads allow you to keep riding in the wet weather, but some are much better than others.  You want the “wing” style pad, with few seams.

Good shorts will cost you money -  that is why it key to look for sales or buy off-season. Keep them out of the dryer and they will last much longer.  In a washing machine don’t use soap with bleach in it, or if you are traveling and need to wash them in the sink try using Dawn dishwashing soap, it is very good for cleaning gear.

Also wear your shorts only once per bike ride, and take them off right away when you finish your ride and toss them in the laundry basket.

It is important to use Chamois crème for comfort and antibacterial protection. There is a controversy on whether to apply the creme to the pad or to you - we say the pad, to result in more consistent comfort.

It is totally normal to have discomfort, even every year, for the first week+ of riding outside, a real bike moves more than a bike on a trainer or a spin bike. Hang in there things will quickly  get better.

Oh another thing, once you go with a “Pro” pad, try to be somewhat consistent with your shorts – the thickness can affect your seat saddle height. A larger pad may raise you up a bit and you might notice the difference.