You don’t need special clothes to ride a bike. It’s most important that you are comfortable and visible.

Comfort

Experiment with fabrics and cuts that suit your body and the way you ride.

Tops: Merino knit will keep you warm in winter (even if you get wet) and cool in summer. It also doesn’t tend to get smelly. We can’t explain it – it just works for lots of people. It can be expensive – shop around, buy at sales.

Jackets: Layers will keep you warm and give you flexibility.  A wind proof jacket can keep you comfortable in light showers and cool breezes.

Bottoms: Bottoms can be sensitive. Try knicks or padded undies under skirts or baggy shorts and long pants. Try pants with a bit of stretch in either the fabric or cut. Low cut pants tend to get lower as you lean forward. A-line or pleated skirts give you room to move.

Shoes:  So long as your pedals have a nice wide and flat base you can comfortably cycle in most shoes. If you’re heading out for a long ride shoes with a stiff sole can be more comfortable and are more energy efficient. Watch out for slippery soles, you don’t want to slip off your pedals. And it’s prudent to cover up your toes.

Visibility

Dress to be seen. Avoid blending in with the road. Bright yellow-green has a high visibility – that’s why you see so many cyclists wearing yellow jackets and vests.

Riding at Night has information about reflectivity and lights.