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In good weather, you can cycle short distances in ordinary clothes, without
any great problems. Although if your bike is fitted with toe clips, it’s usually
worth wearing light trainers so that your feet fit into them properly. Don’t do
it the other way round and take off your toe clips so that you can wear bulky
shoes - your feet will slip around on the pedals and that’s a definite safety
hazard.
There is now a choice of styles in specialist cycling clothing. First there’s the
traditional style, based on tight stretch fabric. Then there’s a different, more
relaxed look that attracts less attention but is still highly effective on the
bike. Most of the clothing in this category is made from fabrics designed
to absorb sweat from the skin and lift or ‘wick’ it to the surface, where it
evaporates more easily. That way you’ll stay drier and the increased rate of
evaporation will keep you cooler too. These fabrics are nearly all synthetic, so
they’re also easy to wash.
As for waterproofs, you’re more likely to get wet from condensation on the
inside rather than rain coming in from the outside. So go for jackets and
overtrousers made from specialist materials that allow sweat out, without
letting water in.
There are still some cycling shoes around that can be used with ordinary
pedals and toe clips and straps. But once most riders have got past the stage
of riding in ordinary trainers, nearly all now go for clipless pedals. These have
a cleat on the sole that clicks into a spring device in the pedal. So the foot is
securely attached to the pedal but can be disconnected by a swift twist of
the ankle.
However, there are several basic systems on the market, with variations,
and hundreds of different designs of shoes and pedals too. So you need the
advice of your retailer in this area, although average riders are best suited by
a rubber-soled shoe that allows you to walk properly and silently. In the top
racing shoes, you can do neither !
CLothing AnD ACCEssoRiEs
Always carry a puncture outfit, a spare tube and a few basic tools - but where?
A wedge-shaped pack that fits under the saddle is ideal but don’t allow the straps
to dangle or they might catch in the wheel. Larger sizes are also available.
Waterproof and breathable Ared
3000 fabric. Water repellent finish.
Taped seams. Easy adjust neck cinch.
Mesh ventilated back panels.
1 x zipped chest pocket. 1 x zipped
rear pocket. Adjustable shockcord hem.
Mesh lined. 360° reflective detail for
enhanced visibility. Weighs less than
800g, based on size L.
