Bikepacking is one of the newest cycling disciplines, and it’s growing in popularity. This type of cycling takes you on long rides with minimal gear, relying instead on your body and environment to provide sustenance and shelter. With all the different variables involved in bikepacking- from terrain to weather conditions- there’s no one definitive answer regarding what gear you need. However, we asked a few experienced bikepackers what they would recommend to someone starting. Below are cycling clothing and other equipment you should consider:
- Cycling Sunglasses: The most important aspect is to make sure that the glasses provide enough protection from the harmful sun’s UV rays. Additionally, sunglasses should also protect your eyes from wind and debris. A good pair of cycling sunglasses will have interchangeable lenses to adapt to different light conditions and a wraparound design to keep wind and debris out of your eyes.
- Cycling Gloves: Cycling gloves are a must-have for anyone who rides a bike. They provide padding for your hands, which can prevent blisters, and they keep your hands warm on cold days. Cycling gloves also have grip pads on the palms, which help you maintain your grip on the handlebars.
There are many different cycling gloves available, so it’s important to choose the right ones for you. If you’re starting cycling, it might be a good idea to buy a pair of gloves designed for beginners. These gloves will usually have thicker padding than more advanced models, and they’ll also be less expensive.
If you’re looking for a pair of high-end cycling gloves, there are plenty of options. Some of the features you might want to look for include breathability, moisture-wicking, and wind resistance.
- Cycling Jackets: There are many different cycling jackets on the market, so it cannot be easy to decide which one is right for you. The most important thing to consider when selecting a cycling jacket is the type of climate you live in. If you stay in a warmer climate region, you will need a breathable jacket to keep you cool in temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cycling Pants: Cycling pants are a type of tight-fitting cycling clothing specifically designed for cycling. Cycling pants typically have a padded seat and compression panels to support your muscles and reduce fatigue. From the casual cyclist to the professional athlete, these shoes are available in a variety of styles, colors, and sizes.
- Cycling Shoes: Cycling shoes are specially designed to clip into the pedals of a bicycle, allowing cyclists to transfer power from their legs to the pedals more effectively. Cycling shoes come in both men’s and women’s models and are typically leather or synthetic materials. They are typically stiffer than other shoes, allowing the cyclist to apply more power when cycling. Cycling shoes also have extra ventilation ports to allow air to flow through them, keeping the feet cool while cycling.