Cycling Clothing Buyer’s Guide
From challenging trails to tough road rides, what you wear when you cycle can have a big effect on your performance. Whether it's something light and comfortable for a hot day, or something thick and durable to keep out rain or snow, there's a wide variety of bike clothing and accessories to choose from.
Our bike clothing buyer's guide will explain:
- Why dedicated cycling clothing matters.
- What each item of clothing does
- What the different properties of cycling clothing mean
- Which cycling clothing brands to look out for
We’ll also touch on why different materials are important and highlight a few top clothing picks to suit both your riding style and preferences.
What's so good about cycling clothing?
If you've ever ridden a bike, you'll probably realise that the position you sit in isn’t really a natural position. You'll either be hunched over the handlebars of a road bike, or bouncing up and down on your pedals as you zoom through a trail or skate park on a mountain bike or BMX.
While cycling, you’ll also notice how you’re affected by factors such as the weather, sweat, chains, gears, and pedals getting in the way, and even soreness, rubbing and (unfortunately) blisters.
Having to cycle any significant distances while battling these challenges can be difficult, especially in normal clothing. That’s why specially designed cycling clothes are popular; they help you cycle comfortably and boost your efficiency, allowing you to keep your focus on the road.
What are the different types of cycling clothing?
Here are our picks for the top pieces of cycling clothing to have on your radar, and why you might need them.
Base layers and thermals
The key function of base layers and thermals is to keep you at a comfortable temperature while you’re riding. You’ll want these layers to be close-fitting but not excessively tight, and the type of material they’re made from will determine whether they’re right for your needs.
A light, breathable base layer material such as polypropylene will help your sweat evaporate and keep your skin cool - perfect for hotter conditions. Conversely, a more insulated base layer will help you maintain your body heat while cycling in the cold winter months.
One of our top picks for thermal cycling jerseys is the Ridge Long Sleeve Jersey in Dark Blue. This versatile jersey can be worn on its own for style or layered under a jacket for added warmth in colder weather. Made from soft brushed-back polyester, it offers great warmth and breathability to keep you cosy without overheating. Three roomy back pockets provide space for essentials like snacks, water bottles, or a light jacket, making it ideal for long rides.
Shop cycling thermalsCycling shorts
There are two key features to look out for when it comes to cycling shorts.
First, you'll need flexibility. Since your legs do most of the work on a ride, your shorts need to not restrict your movement. The best option is usually a stretchy elastane fabric that acts as a second skin and moves with you on the bike.
Padding is the other key feature. As your body weight usually rests on a few points on the saddle, soreness and stiffness can occur on sensitive areas, especially if you ride for extended periods of time. To combat this, many of our cycling shorts come with built-in padding or a chamois, which helps to cushion some of the pressure from the saddle. You'll certainly be thankful of extra padding if you're just getting into cycling, as you won't be used to sitting in an awkward position!
If you're planning on longer road rides, then a pair of bib shorts may be the best option. Bibs offer straps that sit on the shoulders to prevent them from falling, and a specially designed thinner waistband to prevent them from digging into your stomach.
If you don't want a snug fit, then try out baggy shorts that are ideal for leisure riding, mountain biking and commuting. They'll still offer plenty of flexibility, with the added bonus of padding.
The Cycling Shorts are a great all-rounder, perfect for leisure, fitness and commuting. The medium-density foam chamois pad keeps you comfortable in the saddle for rides up to 2 hours.
If you fancy an upgrade, the Boardman Cycling Shorts feature silicon grippers in the hems to prevent the fabric from slipping. Made from stretchy materials, these shorts offer comfort and support throughout your rides.
There’s also the Boardman Bib Shorts, if you’re looking for an alternative to waist shorts. Bib shorts are an ideal option for long rides, with no waistband potentially causing you discomfort over time. The quick drying fabric wicks away moisture, helping regulate your body temperature.
Shop cycling shortsCycling jerseys
Choosing a good cycling jersey will make life a lot easier, even on short rides. As well as conforming to your body shape as you move, cycling jerseys do a few important jobs.
If you're working hard in the saddle, then it's likely you'll start to sweat. A decent cycling jersey will draw this sweat away from your body, keeping you both dry and comfortable and helping to regulate your temperature. They'll also do the opposite if it's cold, acting as another insulation layer to help you retain heat.
You'll find pockets on the lower back of the jersey, which can be very handy on long rides and allow you to store your keys, phone, energy gels, multi-tool, or other ride essentials on your back and out of the way.
The Cycling Jersey in Fluro is a great value option, with the fluorescent design providing enhanced visibility. The breathable fabric also helps promote airflow, making it perfect for warmer rides.
A more premium option is the Short Sleeve Jersey. The silicone hem gripper ensures the jersey stays in place while the flat seam sleeve minimises skin irritation, making it a great option for longer rides.
Shop cycling jerseysJackets and gilets
If you're riding in winter, then a long-sleeved jacket is a great way of conserving heat and keeping the wind off your arms. Ask any rider what the key to staying warm or cool is and they'll tell you it's all about the layers. Try mixing up a jersey and jacket or even adding a base layer underneath for additional heat conservation.
Other features to look out for are dipped hems, to stop any unwanted drafts, and neon colours reflective detailing. Cycling at night or during bad weather can get dangerous, so giving other drivers the best possible chance of seeing you is critical. High visibility and reflective clothing uses special materials that reflect light from streetlamps and car headlights, making other road or path users aware of you.
A great option is theRidge Waterproof Jacket. The fluorescent design and reflective details improve your visibility to other road users while keeping your dry during rainy rides. It also features a removeable hood and pockets for keeping your essentials safe.
Shop cycling jackets and giletsCycling gloves
Just like pretty much every piece of cycling clothing, gloves do several important jobs that will not only keep you comfortable, but safe too. Spending a lot of time supporting your upper body on the handlebars can result in sore palms, so some gel padding to support the main pressure points will allow you to ride for longer, as well as making it easier to get back on your bike a few days later without too much soreness.
We love the Boardman Mitts with their foam padding that helps absorb road vibrations and offers additional hand protection. They also provide greater comfort on the handlebars and feature perforated palms that help promote airflow.
For greater warmth, the Lightweight Cycling Gloves are windproof and water resistant, making them perfect for winter. They’re also touchscreen compatible and feature a silicone print palm for extra grip.
Shop cycling glovesCycling socks
Whether you're a road rider putting in effort on a hot day or a mountain bike rider battling against the elements, a good pair of socks will go a long way to keeping you comfortable. If sweat and heat are problems, then a decent pair of cycling socks will wick sweat away, keeping your feet nice and cool. If you're on the other end of the temperature spectrum, then look for a pair of thicker cycling socks that will keep your feet warmer for longer.
The Boardman 2pk Cycling Socks provide lasting comfort on long rides, made from breathable fabric, ensuring optimal ventilation
Shop cycling socksCycling shoes
While we're on the subject of feet, cycling shoes are super important. Although it's totally possible to ride a bike in trainers if you're commuting a short distance, we'd always recommend cycling shoes with cleats for longer journeys. These specially designed shoes allow for a cleat (or clip) on the sole that clips into specially designed pedals (which you'll need to fit to your bike - check out our guide).
This means you can not only push the pedals but also pull, increasing efficiency and allowing you to cycle further by using more muscles in your leg. The other benefit to cleats is that your
A couple of our top picks for cycling shoes include the Ridge Leisure Cycling Shoes, which are a great value, light, hiking-style shoe, but with a stiffer sole for greater traction and pedalling efficiency. This particular shoe uses a two-bolt cleat system, which is recessed into the sole.
A more premium option is the Boardman Road Cycling Shoe, which features a PU upper that’s vented on both sides, promoting good air flow and breathability. Compatible with both 3 bolt and 2 bolt SPD cleat systems, this lightweight shoe will fit most pedal types
Shop cycling shoesSunglasses
A pair of clear glasses will keep wind and bugs out of your eyes, so they're a must-have if you're planning on flying down hills or winding up the pace on the flat. If you're riding in summer or in bright conditions, then consider a pair of cycling sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays.
The Halfords Full Frame Polarised Sunglasses offer 100% UV protection while shielding you against wind and spray whilst out riding in normal to bright light conditions.
Shop cycling glassesBike helmets
Your helmet is the key to safe journeys. Here at Halfords, we have a wide selection of helmets for every type of rider. Whether it’s something aero for roadies, a stylish number for your daily commute, or a trail-ready mountain bike helmet, you’ll find the perfect option to help keep you safe out on a ride. If you need some expert advice before choosing your new helmet, head over to our Bike Helmet Buying Guide.
Shop bike helmetsKinetiCore technology
KinetiCore is an advanced helmet safety technology from Lazer that’s been ten years in the making. It uses unique EPS foam blocks to protect against both direct and rotational impact. Inspired by cars’ crumple zones, these blocks crumple under impact to absorb the energy and keep you protected.
Shop KinetiCore helmetsMIPs technology
MIPs (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) is another innovative helmet safety system. Adding an extra low-friction layer into a helmet’s shell helps to reduce the rotational forces exerted to the head during an accident, making helmets with MIPs technology a worthwhile investment.
Shop MIPS helmetsImportant cycle clothing properties
Now that you know what the common pieces of cycling clothing are, these are the key features to look out for and why it makes a difference to your cycling experience.
Waterproofing
Staying dry is key to a comfortable ride. Waterproof clothing will have a special tape on the seams to stop water from getting in, and the fabric will have a water replant coating applied too.
Windproofing
Riding in winter can be tough enough if there's already a wind-chill factor when you're stationary, so imagine cycling into an icy breeze at 15-20mph. As with waterproofing, wind proofing involves applying a special coating or layer to the fabric to keep the breeze out.
Wicking
This is when a fabric is designed to be especially breathable, allowing sweat and moisture to be drawn away from the body to ensure you stay warm. These fabrics are clever enough to be able to keep heat in when required too, keeping you comfortable regardless of the conditions.
The best cycling clothing brands
Ridge
Ridge provides a wide range of cycling jerseys, shorts, jackets and much more. Offering good value for money as well as a great selection of materials and colours, Ridge clothing is great for casual cyclists and beginners who want to start exploring the world of cycling.
Shop Ridge cycle clothingAltura
Altura clothing is a good step up for cyclists who are starting to look for ways of improving performance and increase the amount of time they can spend on their bike. You'll get features like water and windproof materials, added reflectivity, improved gel padding on shorts and clothing designs that make cycling comfortable - perfect for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Shop Altura cycle clothingBoardman
If you're looking for performance clothing to match your high-spec bike, then Boardman is a great choice. Featuring outstanding breathability, high quality materials, and specially designed panelling that help to improve your performance, Boardman cycle clothing is ideal for intermediate cyclists.
There’s also the premium Boardman 9 Series range which offers a variety of premium cycling clothing that are sure to elevate your rides.
Shop Boardman cycle clothingIf you aren't sure what size you'll need, or whichcycle clothes suit your type of riding, just visit your local Halfords store and one of our bike experts will be more than happy to help. From tips and tricks for staying warm to choosing the right outfit for the weather, we'll be able to give you plenty of advice - and don't forget to bring your bike in for a free safety check too!
Are there any other types of cycling clothing to be aware of?
Aside from searching for clothing by item (jackets, shorts, etc), you could also search based on the type of cycling you’re doing. For example, mountain bike clothing is often specialised to fit off-road needs, while winter cycling clothing could help you stay warm on icy roads.
Shop all cycling clothing11/24