Introduction
Introduced in the 18th century, bicycles have been used for transport for more than two centuries. It's the best human-powered vehicle. In early days, when motorized vehicles were not yet invented cycle was the only substitute to horse carriages and horses. It can easily be used for short and medium range distances. The maximum distance and speed at which a cycle can go is only limited by the power of the person driving it.
Cycling has come a long way since its first introduction. Cycling as a sport, exercise and recreational activity has become very popular among people of all ages. Cycling races, competitions etc are conducted both in professional and amateur category all around the world. Specialized clothing cycling professionals wear during competitions is gaining more market even among amateurs and common people.
While cycling as a mode of transport is still widely used in many parts of the world especially in developing and underdeveloped nations. It is considered one of the cheapest modes of transportation. Usage in developed countries is also steadily increasing as environmental awareness is pushing more people to use cycles as it one of the best zero emission transports.
Cycling for sport and recreation has a lot of patrons. Racing, mountain biking and other cycling activities all require people to wear special safety equipment. Helmets, guards, pads and other protective gear are must by law in many provinces. Clothing cycling enthusiasts choose has many functional and protective benefits. Latest developments in cloth material have helped make special clothing cycling professionals can wear which does not tear during a fall. This type of clothing saves people from cuts and bruises in the event of a fall.
The best clothing cycling enthusiasts and pros can choose should be ideally made of light weight material. Latest design which increases the aerodynamic efficiency and reduces the overall drag around a cyclist is also being made popular in racing circuits. Unlike professional cycling and triathlon athletes people engaged in recreational cycling prefer a much looser fitting of clothes. Recreational cyclists are not in any kind of hurry and want to relax while enjoying the feel of cycling. Just because one is cycling there is no need to wear dull clothing.
It's common to see bright colors, designs and patterns being used in clothing cycling lovers wear. Though they are nonfunctional by nature they enhance the aesthetic looks of the clothing. The climate and surroundings in which people engage in their cycling activity has a great influence on the clothing preference. More humid and hot conditions will require specialized material to absorb the excess sweat to keep the cyclist comfortable.
Tips
The type of clothing chosen by cyclists may differ with accordance to their sport or cycling activity, but every experienced cyclists agree on one thing. It's more about ones comfort than anything else. We may have good aerodynamically designed or very stylish looking clothing but at the end of the day to really enjoy your cycling and make the best out of it we must be comfortable in what we wear. So this is my advice for all cyclists. Remember clothing cycling is more about comfort rather than style.
