When a person takes up cycling as a sport or activity, they will need at
least some cycling gear to keep them safe and comfortable during the
ride. There are a number of brands that focus just on ...
When a person takes up cycling as a sport or activity, they will need at
least some cycling gear to keep them safe and comfortable during the
ride. There are a number of brands that focus just on cycling gear for
both professionals and beginners. What you'll find is that the gear
available is either suited for mountain biking, road cycling races, or
just casual riding. Once you know what purpose you will have for the
gear, then you can begin finding what you need.
So aside from the fact that you need a bike, what is some other gear that a beginner should purchase?
All cyclists need biking shorts, plain and simple. Biking shorts can
either make the ride comfortable or miserable for the rider. Until
recently, they only were only available in tight, spandex material that
is rather revealing for both men and women. These biking shorts have
panels in them so that they fit the person's body very precisely, but
also have padding so that the person's buttocks do not get as tired when
riding.
Some may be under the impression that wearing biking
shorts underneath a normal pair of shorts would be fine. The problem
however is that baggy shorts eventually begin to ride up. The pinching
will cause discomfort, despite having a pair of padded shorts on
underneath. For those who don't want a tight fitting short,
manufacturers have created baggy shorts that have a built-in girdle to
provide enough support. It's similar to wearing a pair of underwear with
padding typically seen with conventional biking shorts.
A
helmet is another essential, though some might tell you that it isn't.
Accidents do happen, no matter how cautious you might be. And if they do
occur without you wearing a helmet, then you could get severely
injured. Some areas do have laws that require cyclists to wear one. When
you buy one, make sure that it fits well.
You will find that
sunglasses are all but a necessity to shield and protect your eyes from
the sun and debris that might come up from your tires.
To stay
hydrated, have one or two water bottles on hand. We tend to only drink
when thirsty, but it's important to take a drink every 15 minutes when
your thirsty or not to avoid dehydration. Being dehydrated during your
ride is going to hurt your performance.
I would also recommend
getting a pair of gloves. It will help you get a better grip when your
palms are sweaty, plus it adds protection in case of a fall.
Article Tags:
Cycling Gear, Biking Shorts
