Training Dictionary
Cycling Clothes
Definition: A breathable layer often termed "spandex," which helps keep a cyclist comfortable in a variety of conditions for extended hours.
Purpose:
Cycling shorts - essentially a second layer of skin that protects you against chaffing, includes a "chamois," which is a pad to add additional comfort for hours in the saddle
Arm/knee/leg warmers - a removable layer to keep extremities warm
Base Layer - wicks away moisture to keep you comfortable and dry
Jersey - can be worn as a standalone jersey or as an extra layer to stay warm
Rain Jacket - when it rains, this helps keep you dry and makes you more visible (hi-vis yellow is rockin')
Wind Vest - a vest which often has open mesh throughout the back with a wind resistant material throughout the front
Wind Jacket - same as the vest but covers your arms too
Thermal Vest - a vest that adds a substantial insulation while often providing a wind resistant barrier for your chest
Thermal Jacket - same as the vest but covers your arms too
Gloves - absorbs shock, wipes off sweat, keeps your hands warm, and keeps your hands safe from abbrasion
Shoe covers - one type is made to keep the feet warm in colder weather while the other type is to help with aerodynamics for events such as TTs and Criteriums
Skinsuit - a one peice suit, which helps with aerodynamics for events such as TTs and Criteriums
Fit:
Jerseys, shorts, base layers, arm/knee/leg warmers are all meant to conform to your body to not only avoid excess movement and flapping in the wind but also keep you dry and warm.
Jackets and vests are made to fit over your jersey. They should be snug enough so you do not feel like you are wearing a poncho on your ride but at the same time, large enough to allow you to fit them over layers.
Like most cycling clothes, the gloves are made to fit snug too. If any of your clothes restricts movement or turns your extremities purple, it's probably too small.
Layering:
When riding, the order of clothing is very important to keep you dry and warm. This is not so important in summer months when you are often riding in just a jersey and a pair of cycling shorts.
To layer for a colder ride, wear a wicking base layer, followed by a jersey(s), followed by a wind vest or wind jacket or thermal vest.
Important Details
Black shorts are the way to go. Ask any of your cycling friends and they can make a long list of reasons. If your saddle starts getting less comfortable to ride, often times a new chamois is a beautiful fix. Avoid wearing a yellow jersey unless you enjoy hearing people yell "go Lance" as you ride by.
