what are the best clothes for cycling - help?

Question

I bought this waterproof jacket for cycling, and wear it over layers, when I take it off, the inside of the jacket is WET through?
Any ideas why and what I should be doing/wearing?
thanks,

Answer 1

The shell (outer jacket) must be waterproof and breathable. This allows for body moisture to be wicked -away and evaporate to the outside while simultaneously disallowing rain and wind from getting inside. Gortex was one of the initial, trademark names for this type of material. It is still very popular and effective although they come out with new stuff all the time. When you shop for your "shell," look for a light weight, "breathable" and waterproof jacket preferably with zipper - vents under the arm pits (u can un - zip for extra air circulation). The tag should have this info. or the on-line description should tell you. Otherwise, ask a clerk in a place like, REI or Performance cycling shop, North Face store, etc. for a Gortex shell or the equivalent. The Gortex - like material can delaminate from washing the jacket in detergent too many times (NEVER put in dryer!), leaving it in direct sunlight too often/for too long (like in the car), or from mega - exposure to ocean water -- so, follow care directions on label.

Re the layers underneath your shell:
Avoid wearing anything cotton as cotton will stay wet next to your skin; it is not a moisture - wicker. The first layer should fit almost like a second skin -- be made of a synthetic, breathable fabric especially for cycling or physical endurance. An example of this is polypropylene (spelling ?). Once again, there are so many options out there! You may layer over this "second skin" and under your shell with a fleece or synchilla pull - over or zip - up. This is that soft, sort- of- fuzzy material that reminds me of the underside of a sweatshirt (but it is not cotton). These come in "weights" = ultra-light, light, mid-weight, expedition weight etc. If you choose to wear one of these cycling, I would recommend a lighter weight with a snug fit. I'm sure you know that they make jackets, shirts, etc. esp. for cycling that fit tightly and are mix-and-match - layerable, as well. REI seems to be reasonably priced and carry brands like, Marmot and North Face both of which I find to be decent products. You can also try eBay.com and Amazon.com or craig's list. L.L. Bean might work, as well. Happy Cycling!

Answer 2

You generate a lot of sweat when cycling and although I wear a base layer, bib tights and cycling jersey, I can still get wet if I wear a jacket over the top. Many people in my club will therefore use a jacket that can be folded up, riding in jersey and base layer. That way, if it gets colder or looks like rain, you simply unzip the small pouch and put on the jacket. Some riders even stop to do this.

So try a lightweight, packable water proof or, if you still sweat on rides, try something like Alturer, or Helly Hansen, that will have breathing flaps.

Luck

Answer 3

Unless it is bitter cold or actually raining enough to keep the ground wet, don't wear a weather-proof outer layer. It's wet inside from sweating, and when riding your clothing needs to breathe.

Try a windproof vest instead, or cut down on your layers.
A good rule of thumb is to be slightly chilly when you first start riding as you will warm up and be comfortable within a couple miles. Do bring your jacket in case the weather turns or you underestimated the temperature, though.

Answer 4

Depends on the weather. If it's warm, go cycling shorts and jersey. It wil allow your body to dissapate heat. If cold, get leggings, a cycling jacket and some long fingered gloves.

If the inside of your outside jacket is wet, are you wearing wicking materail shirts? If not it's probably being blown in when you ride from the wheels, maybe tighten the waist drawstring if it has one.

Answer 5

Sounds like your jacket is not breathable so get one that is. You will also need the correct base layers.

Best place for cycling equipment is wiggle.com or your local cycle shop.

Answer 6

How about specialist cycling gear - go to a good sports shop or cycling shop and look there? I think Nike Dri-fit stuff is good - you might find that on the internet...

Answer 7

You should check out some vendors websites regarding specifics to clothing for the climate where you are riding.

where I live, its just bibs and a jersey at this time of the year.
i've left a few links of some popular online bike clothing retailers.
good luck!

Answer 8

depends what country you are cycling in.

Obviously cycling across Africa requires different attire to cycling in Russia.

Answer 9

Your jacket is probably Polyurethane. Get something that is breathable.

Answer 10

Tank top and cycling shorts.