Building Your Cycling Kit

Started with running shoes and basketball shorts. Lasted about two rides before understanding why cycling-specific gear exists. Built my kit piece by piece over a few years. Here’s what actually matters and in what order to prioritize.

The Essentials (Get These First)

Helmet

Non-negotiable. Protects your head. Modern helmets are lightweight and well-ventilated. MIPS technology adds rotational impact protection. Replace after any crash or every 5 years. Fit matters — should be snug without pressure points.

Shorts with Chamois

Second priority after helmet. The padded liner prevents saddle soreness and friction. Bibs are better than shorts for serious riding. Absolutely necessary for rides over 30 minutes.

Shoes

Cycling shoes are stiff for power transfer. Clipless systems connect shoes to pedals. Makes pedaling more efficient and secure. Start with flat pedals and regular athletic shoes if nervous about clipless — upgrade when ready.

Important Additions

Jersey

Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry. Rear pockets carry phone, food, tools. Full-length zipper allows temperature regulation. Technical jerseys perform better than cotton t-shirts, especially in heat.

Gloves

Padding reduces hand numbness. Grip helps in wet conditions. Protection during falls. Fingerless for warm weather, full-finger for cold or mountain biking.

Eyewear

Protects from sun, wind, debris, and bugs. Wraparound styles provide peripheral coverage. Interchangeable lenses handle different light conditions. Clear lenses work for night or low-light riding.

Weather Expansion

Arm and Leg Warmers

Versatile temperature regulation. Add or remove as conditions change. Easier than carrying a jacket. Essential for variable-weather riding.

Rain Jacket

Waterproof and breathable. Packable for unexpected weather. Should have rear venting for moisture management. Get cycling-specific cut for proper coverage in riding position.

Base Layers

Lightweight moisture-wicking for summer. Thermal versions for winter. Regulate temperature and move sweat away from skin. Merino wool options provide natural temperature control.

Accessories

Socks: Cycling-specific socks wick moisture and provide arch support. Worth the modest investment.

Cap: Fits under helmet. Blocks sun, absorbs sweat, provides warmth. Cotton works; technical fabrics perform better.

Vest: Core warmth without arm restriction. Perfect for cool starts that warm up. Highly packable.

Tools to Carry

• Multi-tool with hex keys
• Spare tube (or patch kit)
• Tire levers
• Mini pump or CO2 inflator
• Phone with emergency contacts
• Cash/card for emergencies

Building Over Time

Don’t buy everything at once. Start with helmet and shorts. Add jersey and shoes. Expand based on what you actually need for how you actually ride.

That’s what makes building a kit endearing to us — each piece solves a specific problem you’ve actually experienced. Buy solutions to problems you have, not problems you might have.

Quality Considerations

Higher-end gear lasts longer and performs better. But entry-level kit from reputable brands works fine for getting started. Upgrade pieces as you wear them out and know what matters to you.

One exception: don’t skimp on the chamois. Bad shorts ruin rides regardless of what else you’re wearing.