Safe and dry: the right equipment for cycling

Use your head – and protect it! But a helmet probably isn’t the only equipment you need. Sales advisor David shows which cycling clothing is important and how you can stay safe and dry while cycling to your destination.

The right equipment for cycling

Cycling clothing is different from regular outdoor clothing: cycling jackets, for example, are cut longer at the rear and on the arms to account for your position on the bike. If you need reliable protection against bad weather, pack a waterproof jacket. When you’re cycling, you’re at the mercy of the airstream, which makes a windproof jacket more important than it would be if you were hiking, for instance. In the chillier months, wind-resistant and water-repellent softshell jackets are a good choice, whereas a thin, windproof jacket is all you need for summer. 

Cycling trousers are often stretchy so you can move more easily and are cut close to your ankle so they don’t get caught up in your chain. I recommend padded cycling underwear made from Merino wool for maximum comfort on longer rides.

Safely transporting luggage on your bike

To ensure your belongings get to where you’re going safely, you need a water-repellent or waterproof backpack. This will keep your devices and documents nice and dry, even if it’s raining cats and dogs. If you need more space, bike bags are a great choice. Not sure what’ll work on your bike? Just pop by and see us: at our stores, you can test-pack your own bike. You’ll see straight away how it rides differently depending on the bag in question, and work out what you like the most. 

Safe travels with lights and a helmet

The more visible you are, the safer you are on the roads: brightly coloured cycling clothing helps other road users see you better. Good lights and reflectors are important – and required by law. Your bicycle lights should be waterproof and not dazzle other road users. I like rechargeable headlamps: they’re more eco-friendly than batteries and easier on your wallet, too.

No matter whether you’re cycling around town or heading up into the Alps, you always need to wear a helmet. It’s crucial that it fits well. A visor can help stop the sun from dazzling you and prevent raindrops from dripping into your face, while good ventilation keeps you from getting too warm.

Plus, you should also wear good gloves. Padded cycling gloves protect your hands from a cold airstream, or if you’re tired or happen to fall off. If you’re in a bike park, I’d also recommend knee and elbow pads.

Repair kit for your cycle tour

You chain may well not break. But a punctured inner tube is something to be prepared for, especially if you’re heading off on a lengthy trip. And what should you do if that happens? With the right tool, you’ll patch up the hole in no time. On longer tours, though, it’s worth packing a more extensive repair kit.