What To Wear Riding A Sportif
If you’re preparing to ride a sportif, much of your focus revolves around training and not always on what you wear.
And to make sure you're as well dressed as you are trained on the big day, our partners at Spin11 have put together a handy guide on all the essentials and accessories that you can wear riding a sportif:
Why proper cycling clothes are necessary
It’s what makes you comfortable, protected from the changing weather conditions, it can cool you off during hot summer days or keep you warms on chilly autumn and spring rides.
Wearing cycling-specific clothes allows you to move freely and sit a lot more comfortably, so clothing is a very important essence of cycling!
Bib shorts
Bib shorts feature stretch fabrics for ease of movement while cycling. Bib shorts tend to be cut longer than normal sport shorts. All bib shorts have gripper elastic at the leg opening to keep them in place while cycling.
The chamois: The most important part of the shorts is a padded crotch piece that also reduces friction and wicks away moisture.
Base Layer and Jersey
Base layer: as this is the first layer that you put on, the primary function of the base layer is to wick sweat and transfer it away from your skin so that you remain dry.
Jerseys tend to be stretchy, breathable, and quick drying. Most jerseys will be an aerodynamic cut to help you go as fast you can. There are a few features to a cycling jersey such as back pockets for easy on the go access, reflective trim or material for night riding and a front zipper for breathability when it gets hot.
Cycling Jackets
The top considerations in a cycling jacket are whether it will block the wind and whether it will keep you dry. Most jackets do both tasks to some degree, so think first about the likelihood of rain on your rides.
Note, too, that some jackets offer more warmth than others, which will be a concern if you ride in a colder climate or in the winter months
Accessory Items
Skullcaps: Adds insulation to your winter rides and protects those ears on an icy morning.
Gloves: Feature padding that helps absorb road vibrations and in an event of a crash protects the palms of your hands so they are a must wear at all times.
You can be standing in a bike shop or be online looking for the right cycling clothing and become very confused, that’s why Spin11 have made that process very simple and enjoyable on their website.
You can visit Spin 11’s website and get in touch here.