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What to wear when first getting into cycling?

  • 16-09-2014 1:14am
    #1
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 34,694 ✭✭✭✭


    As someone who recently got a bike on the CTW scheme, I was wondering what do casual cyclists wear on their rides?

    Since I am only starting off, I honestly don't want to look like a numpty with all the lycra gears, special shoes, flashy shades etc. I'll get into all that at a later date if I think its required.

    I know that a helmet and padded shorts are probably the must-haves, but I find those people who go out and buy 'all the best of gear' to look the part a little OTT, so I was wondering what type of trainers, trousers etc people wear if only a casual cyclist?


Comments

  • Closed Accounts Posts: 4,744 ✭✭✭diomed


    County jersey, O'Neill shorts.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 851 ✭✭✭TonyStark


    NIMAN wrote: »
    As someone who recently got a bike on the CTW scheme, I was wondering what do casual cyclists wear on their rides?

    Since I am only starting off, I honestly don't want to look like a numpty with all the lycra gears, special shoes, flashy shades etc. I'll get into all that at a later date if I think its required.

    I know that a helmet and padded shorts are probably the must-haves, but I find those people who go out and buy 'all the best of gear' to look the part a little OTT, so I was wondering what type of trainers, trousers etc people wear if only a casual cyclist?

    What sort of bike did you get? If it was a high Nelly then the Lycra might be a little overkill. ☺


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,684 ✭✭✭triggermortis


    It depends on what sort of cycling you're going to be doing as the clothing is specific for a reason. Road biking clothes are tighter as you don't want things flapping about while you're flying along the road. It wicks sweat away from your skin to keep you cool and has pockets where you can reach without a hassle.
    Mountain biking gear is more baggy and functional for riding off road.
    Proper shoes, pedals and cleats are probably for a little later than the beginner stage, but once you get used to them you'll not want to ride without them.
    There's nothing to stop you wearing whatever you want, but some things are going to be more comfortable than others. Aldi and Lidl often have runs of decent enough gear that a lot of people use (myself included) so you don't have to spend a fortune.
    I'd say at least get some cycling shorts to start with and use any sort of sport top and trainers (if you have flat pedals) and see how you get on. As the weather gets colder soon, there's more to think about as you'll need gloves, hat and base layers etc, but again, Aldi/Lidl can help or you might have some of that stuff already anyway. Just head out in whatever you have and see how you get on first - nothing worse than spending a load of money on seething and then finding out that you don't like doing it!!


  • Posts: 3,620 ✭✭✭ [Deleted User]


    If your commute is more than a few Kms cycling shorts with padding are going to prevent serious discomfort in the lower regions.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,259 ✭✭✭Hunterbiker


    When I first started I used a cheap pair of cycling shorts under normal shorts and a t-shirt from lidl. When I knew I'd keep cycling it I spent a bit more. I was doing a 20k round trip to work.
    when it got cold I got a pair of lidl bid tights and as they kept me warm I soon stopped worrying about how I looked in them and just enjoyed being warm wearing them.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,277 ✭✭✭MB Lacey


    NIMAN wrote: »
    As someone who recently got a bike on the CTW scheme, I was wondering what do casual cyclists wear on their rides?

    Since I am only starting off, I honestly don't want to look like a numpty with all the lycra gears, special shoes, flashy shades etc. I'll get into all that at a later date if I think its required.

    Less than 15k = cycle in normal clothes (jeans, trainers, possibly cycling jersey or other material that wicks away sweat).
    More than 15k = lycra top, quality padded shorts, normal trainers.

    Now that it's about to get colder, keep an eye out for lidl cycling deals. You can get a wick away top to wear over your cycling jersey for €15.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 26,928 ✭✭✭✭rainbow kirby


    A basic pair of mountain bike baggy shorts with a padded liner wouldn't be the worst idea if you're a little self-conscious.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 598 ✭✭✭fillup


    "What to wear when first getting into cycling?"

    A Smile


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 1,083 ✭✭✭Iranoutofideas


    I hear there's deals on the Columbian Cycle Team kit at the moment


  • Moderators, Recreation & Hobbies Moderators Posts: 21,901 Mod ✭✭✭✭Brian?


    NIMAN wrote: »
    As someone who recently got a bike on the CTW scheme, I was wondering what do casual cyclists wear on their rides?

    Since I am only starting off, I honestly don't want to look like a numpty with all the lycra gears, special shoes, flashy shades etc. I'll get into all that at a later date if I think its required.

    I know that a helmet and padded shorts are probably the must-haves, but I find those people who go out and buy 'all the best of gear' to look the part a little OTT, so I was wondering what type of trainers, trousers etc people wear if only a casual cyclist?

    Kudos on insulting 90% of cyclists.

    I'm quite happy to "look like a numpty" in my Lycra, crazy as it is to wear cycling clothing while cycling.

    they/them/theirs


    And so on, and so on …. - Slavoj Žižek




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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,842 ✭✭✭Micilin Muc


    Brian? wrote: »
    Kudos on insulting 90% of cyclists.

    I'm quite happy to "look like a numpty" in my Lycra, crazy as it is to wear cycling clothing while cycling.

    No insult taken by me. I know I look like a numpty!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 149 ✭✭Roddylarge


    It didn't insult me either.


  • Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 140 ✭✭The Rabbit


    That guy just likes being insulted.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,874 ✭✭✭Zyzz


    I've heard they are selling these off, apparently comfy and won't make you look like a so called 'numpty'..

    colom-1410727065.jpg


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 22,412 ✭✭✭✭endacl


    Zyzz wrote: »
    I've heard they are selling these off, apparently comfy and won't make you look like a so called 'numpty'..

    colom-1410727065.jpg

    Beat me to it!

    :D


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,834 ✭✭✭Captain Flaps


    I picked up a couple of cycle jerseys, some bike shoes and a pair of loose-ish (slightly tighter than what I'd normally wear but not lycra by a long stretch) padded shorts from Lidl a few years back under the assumption I'd probably upgrade when I got more into it. I cycle every day and honestly I haven't felt the need to replace anything. It's all comfy, wicks the sweat away and well made enough to survive a LOT of regular washes. Keep and eye on the Lidl/Aldi specials, you'll get a full kit that will do you a long time for the price of a branded jersey from a proper cycle shop.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 33,709 ✭✭✭✭Cantona's Collars


    I've just bought my first road bike (since I was 20). I managed to pick up some gear in Lidl & Aldi which will see me out for a while.I was warned that the Aldi shorts are ok for spins up to 40k but your arse won't thank you if you do much more than that so as I put up more miles,I'll invest in a better pair.

    The German stores are selling off a good bit of cycling gear at the minute:

    Aldi: Padded bib,long legged for €4.99,afaik they also have glasses for only a couple of Euro.

    Lidl: Short sleeved jersey €5.99, Long sleeved €9.99, I also picked up a pair of shoes for €19.99 but may invest in pedals to suit so as it is I wear a comfy pair of trainers.

    Lidl have all this gear in store at the moment.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,842 ✭✭✭Micilin Muc


    zerks wrote: »
    I've just bought my first road bike (since I was 20). I managed to pick up some gear in Lidl & Aldi which will see me out for a while.I was warned that the Aldi shorts are ok for spins up to 40k but your arse won't thank you if you do much more than that so as I put up more miles,I'll invest in a better pair.

    The German stores are selling off a good bit of cycling gear at the minute:

    Aldi: Padded bib,long legged for €4.99,afaik they also have glasses for only a couple of Euro.

    Lidl: Short sleeved jersey €5.99, Long sleeved €9.99, I also picked up a pair of shoes for €19.99 but may invest in pedals to suit so as it is I wear a comfy pair of trainers.

    I have worn the Aldi long-legged bib on a 210km cycle and had no issues :)


  • Posts: 3,620 ✭✭✭ [Deleted User]


    zerks wrote: »
    I've just bought my first road bike (since I was 20). I managed to pick up some gear in Lidl & Aldi which will see me out for a while.I was warned that the Aldi shorts are ok for spins up to 40k but your arse won't thank you if you do much more than that so as I put up more miles,I'll invest in a better pair.

    The German stores are selling off a good bit of cycling gear at the minute:

    Aldi: Padded bib,long legged for €4.99,afaik they also have glasses for only a couple of Euro.

    Lidl: Short sleeved jersey €5.99, Long sleeved €9.99, I also picked up a pair of shoes for €19.99 but may invest in pedals to suit so as it is I wear a comfy pair of trainers.

    I've gotten a whole summer out of the Aldi shorts and they are begining to show signs of ware after approx 1000km in the saddle.

    Not too bad.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 417 ✭✭Bray Header


    Brian? wrote: »
    Kudos on insulting 90% of cyclists.

    I'm quite happy to "look like a numpty" in my Lycra, crazy as it is to wear cycling clothing while cycling.

    I don't think the OP meant offence..but lets be honest, the get up on some lads does make them look a numpty..a bit like the "full kit ****" in the soccer world.

    OP - I recommend a good pair of shorts, high quality helmet and a quality pair of gloves for cycling..at least if you fall off your hands won't be torn to shreds.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 33,709 ✭✭✭✭Cantona's Collars


    I have worn the Aldi long-legged bib on a 210km cycle and had no issues :)

    Good to know,a friend who's big into cycling and races regularly warned me that they are good to a point.Although the saddle on his bike is like a razor blade compared to mine.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,116 ✭✭✭bazermc


    Numpty? I find that very offensive.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 34,694 ✭✭✭✭NIMAN


    bazermc wrote: »
    Numpty? I find that very offensive.

    Apologies for those who took offence, I didn't mean that everyone who wears lycra is a numpty. Basically I meant those folk who get a new pasttime, be it cycling or golf or whatever, and then go out and buy all the best of expensive gear despite the fact they are only starting off. There are plenty of them out there. I see many cyclists in full kit and I don't think they look silly at all, I appreciate that the gear serves a purpose and is necessary if you are doing proper mileage.

    For the record, I have a Boardman Hybrid, didn't want to go the road bike route just yet until I see if cycling is for me, not sure if I will get the bug or not. It will not be for commuting, just freetime cycling and not any great distances.

    Thanks for all the replies so far, plenty of good info.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,946 ✭✭✭Bigus


    Something high viz is a help safety wise , and I'm not just talking a high viz jacket, but bright sweatshirt, t shirt etc, the louder the better, to be seen better in traffic.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 34,694 ✭✭✭✭NIMAN


    YEah got sorted for that, shocking the amount of cyclists who decide to wear all black or dark colours on these dull evenings.

    It should be compulsory to wear bright colours whilst cycling.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,069 ✭✭✭ronn


    The more hi viz the better and a decent set of lights,
    The more that catches the motorists eye the better,


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,479 ✭✭✭rollingscone


    NIMAN wrote: »
    YEah got sorted for that, shocking the amount of cyclists who decide to wear all black or dark colours on these dull evenings.

    It should be compulsory to wear bright colours whilst cycling.
    Bigus wrote: »
    Something high viz is a help safety wise , and I'm not just talking a high viz jacket, but bright sweatshirt, t shirt etc, the louder the better, to be seen better in traffic.

    And it establishes a forcefield that will stop bullets and meteorites too.

    Lights and and reflective piping/panels are what will get you seen st night. During the day road positioning and clear signalling along with your awareness of what's going on around you are what will keep you safe.

    The roads are full of dangerous numpties in fluorescent jackets. I wear my viz jacket on the handful of mornings that it's foggy or grey and being fluorescent actually provides some advantage.

    Having lights actually is mandatory.


  • Moderators, Society & Culture Moderators Posts: 15,812 Mod ✭✭✭✭smacl


    Aethetics aside, a couple of things to consider;

    - If you sweat, and your wearing cotton or denim, you get wet and get cold. Lycra dries out while cycling very quickly.

    - If it rains, and your wearing cotton or denim, you stay wet and get cold. Lycra dries out while cycling very quickly.

    - If you cycle in jeans for more than about and hour, you will likely get a sore ass and some chafing. Doubly so if they're wet. This will lead to you writhing around the place, and hey presto, back to looking like a numpty.

    - If you're cycling to work, better to bring dry clothes to arrive in, or better still, have some stashed at work. While cycling gear looks ok on a bike, it does look a bit daft in the office. So incidentally does sodden, sweaty casual gear.

    On a budget, the Aldi gear does the job, is pretty nondescript, and works well. I'd go shorts, jersey, thin waterproof jacket, and cheap overshoes.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,575 ✭✭✭ZiabR


    Brian? wrote: »
    Kudos on insulting 90% of cyclists.

    I'm quite happy to "look like a numpty" in my Lycra, crazy as it is to wear cycling clothing while cycling.

    Thats what I thought too when I read the OPs comment! I offend myself when cycling if I don't look like a numpty :D


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,853 ✭✭✭✭tomasrojo


    I've been cycling for transport a long time, and I've never found the need to wear anything but normal clothes, with the exception of rain gear and bringing a change of top and maybe an extra top again in case you get cold.

    If you want hi-viz, Sam Brownes go over normal clothes. For my part, I have an elasticated hi-viz belt that goes around my satchel. Goes in your pocket. Just have to cut and sew to an appropriate length.

    On the safety issue generally, if you're cycling in Dublin mostly, the Dublin Bikes make a good case that you're safe enough no matter what you wear: eight million journeys, one fatality.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,853 ✭✭✭✭tomasrojo


    I don't think 90% of cyclists wear full cycling kit. There's nothing wrong with it either.


  • Moderators, Society & Culture Moderators Posts: 15,812 Mod ✭✭✭✭smacl


    tomasrojo wrote: »
    I don't think 90% of cyclists wear full cycling kit. There's nothing wrong with it either.

    I find if I have to cycle in the rain, and arrive vaguely presentable, my options are limited. If I'm not wearing cycling gear with a change of clothes on arrival, waterproof jacket, waterproof leggings and overshoes are a must. If I'm wearing waterproofs, I'm prone to sweat like a pig, particularly over hills, so it is still not ideal.

    I think you'll find of the many cyclists who commute by bike in regular clothes, a large proportion will either not use the bike in the rain, or have a change of clothes at the destination. Leaving the more expensive flashy gear aside, much of the low end cycling gear is functional, sensible and pretty casual to look at.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 342 ✭✭bambergbike


    My rule of the thumb is that the difference between cheap gear and expensive gear becomes steadily more obvious (performance-wise) as the weather gets hotter, or colder, or wetter, or windier. I certainly know that I was cursing my ALDI long-sleeved jersey as I snapped this. I managed to eliminate said jersey from my life shortly afterwards when I was decluttering and moving house:

    Diversion.JPG

    I'm not sure why I was specifically cursing the jersey rather than the base layer I had underneath or the softshell jacket I was wearing on top, but at the time it all made sense in my poor frozen head.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8,493 ✭✭✭RedXIV


    As someone just about to get into commuting on a bike, do people not just throw clothes in a backpack and bring that with them? That's what I was planning on doing?

    I will be investigating lidl/aldi cycling gear options though!


  • Posts: 3,620 ✭✭✭ [Deleted User]


    RedXIV wrote: »
    As someone just about to get into commuting on a bike, do people not just throw clothes in a backpack and bring that with them? That's what I was planning on doing?

    I will be investigating lidl/aldi cycling gear options though!

    Preferably inside another waterproof bag so when you do get caughtt in the inevitable biblical downpour, your change of cloths is dry!


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,235 ✭✭✭✭Cee-Jay-Cee


    If you bought a road (racer) then Buy plain colour jerseys and plain coloured padded bib shorts to get you started.

    If your a middle aged beer bellied baldy and bought a hybrid then make do with whatever t-shirts you have and any old shorts/track suit bottoms will do.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 342 ✭✭bambergbike


    RedXIV wrote: »
    As someone just about to get into commuting on a bike, do people not just throw clothes in a backpack and bring that with them? That's what I was planning on doing?

    Basically yes, my 2 modifications:

    1) a pannier is handy (or a basket you can just drop a backpack into)

    2) I pack 2 changes of clothes - clothes to change into when I get to B, and clean, dry cycling clothes for my return trip to A.


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 210 ✭✭mickydcork


    NIMAN wrote: »
    YEah got sorted for that, shocking the amount of cyclists who decide to wear all black or dark colours on these dull evenings.

    It should be compulsory to wear bright colours whilst cycling.

    I think they have done tests which indicate that the colour of bicycle clothes is irrelevant, as long as you have highly reflective strips in key locations.

    Much of my cycling gear is dark, but I just wear a Sam Browne belt and put reflective strips on my ankles.

    The movement of the strips helps to draw attention to the rider.

    Also you can never have too much lighting on your bike.

    Also also I wear cycling specific clothing even on my short commute of 5km. It's much more comfortable, not flappy, temperature adjustable (arm warmers etc.) and able to cope much better with changeable weather.

    I keep a few changes of clothes at work.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 33,709 ✭✭✭✭Cantona's Collars


    10 pages of bike stuff in the new Aldi brochure,it's not on the website yet.Everything from socks to lights and all in between.


  • Moderators, Recreation & Hobbies Moderators Posts: 21,901 Mod ✭✭✭✭Brian?


    The Rabbit wrote: »
    That guy just likes being insulted.

    Do I? That's news to me.

    Saying people in Lycra look like numptys is an insult. Us is numpty a compliment now?

    they/them/theirs


    And so on, and so on …. - Slavoj Žižek




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  • Moderators, Recreation & Hobbies Moderators Posts: 21,901 Mod ✭✭✭✭Brian?


    I don't think the OP meant offence..but lets be honest, the get up on some lads does make them look a numpty..a bit like the "full kit ****" in the soccer world.


    People in full pro kit do make me laugh. Especially when the bike and pro kit are matching.

    they/them/theirs


    And so on, and so on …. - Slavoj Žižek




  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15 Velotogo


    Hi OP,

    This time last year I was in your position. If you're serious about commuting to work, you'll need proper cycling gear as it's more effective in dealing with sweat. Forget about what you look like as most of the regular bike commuters will be wearing cycle clobber.

    My winter wardrobe for 2013/14 was a long sleeve cycling jersey, winter cruiser tights, high-viz jacket, gloves, skullcap and mountain bike cycle shoes. I also had a pair of waterproof leggings for the rare bad day. Most of my kit was bought on-line for relatively very little money and has worn really well.

    If you're going to be out and about regularly over the darker months, I'd recommend the Altura Night Vision or Endura Luminite clothing range. It can be pricey but it'll make sure you're seen with its reflective strips.

    Lights are another must. My winter set-up is 2 flashing lights on the back and a solid main beam and flashing light on the front. Overkill, maybe but you want to make sure that motorists have you on their radar.

    Best of luck :)


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