General clothing

[Daz73]

Couldn't see an appropriate place to ask this so thought why not here

Regarding gloves , shoes/trainers , helmets

Just wondering what others ebikers wear for general touring , just going out for a 20mile+ ride??

Thanks

 

[Muddyfox]

Depends on the weather. I have rheumatoid arthritis so feel the cold more than most. Since mid September I have been wearing long leggings, full gloves and winds stopper jacket over long sleeved cycling shirts. Cannot feel comfortable on my bike unless I have my clipless cycling shoes on. Not entering into the helmet debate but I always wear one no matter the distance. To put things into perspective I often play golf in long trousers, hat, polo shirt and fleece whilst my playing partners have just shorts and polo shirts on.

 

[Deleted member 33385]

Most of my journeys are 20 to 43+ miles.

Full-on dayglow 90's rave dayglow yellow all over, plus BMX- style helmet. People actually laugh out loud.








(added reflective tape. Because, black)



Silverline hi-viz trousers are quite good - what you lose in packability, you gain in visibility. Windproof, roomy and waterproof:

Silverline 282424 Hi-Vis Trousers Class 1, Large 81 cm 32-inch: Amazon.co.uk: DIY & Tools

Silverline 282424 Hi-Vis Trousers Class 1, Large 81 cm 32-inch: Amazon.co.uk: DIY & Tools

www.amazon.co.uk

I usually go with a Blackrock high viz top with arms, over a Gore-Tex jacket, I add a down jacket underneath when it very cold indeed. The Crane helmet cover makes the helmet waterproof and somewhat windproof - has been useful in recent nippy weather.

Thermal Hipora gloves with Gore-Tex lining.

Low Gore-Tex lined trekking shoes and thick socks. I do need some windproof socks because I got chillblains on my toes the other week, and the skin is still peeling off. I swear it could have all come off in one piece, like a snake shedding it's skin...

Chilblains

NHS information about chilblains, including symptoms, causes and how to treat them yourself.

www.nhs.uk

 

[kangooroo]

Normal daily gear depending on the weather, with either a high-vis waterproof jacket or gilet over the top.

 

[Raboa]

Thermal top, fleece, windproof / waterproof.
Under cycling shorts, cycling trousers (thermal cycling tights with intergraded pad worn under trousers in winter), mtb flat cycling shoes, winter cycling socks when needed, neck warmer (Buff etc).
Full cycling gloves most of the time, Portwest thermal gloves in winter - £5 from local hardware store.

Different weights of thermal and fleece to match season. In really cold weather I put 2 thermals on, the first layer is a thinner weight.

Another thing to look at is the buffalo type system - fleece covered in a windproof membrane, usually pertex. You can buy from one from 'buffalo clothing company' or other companies such as Alpkit, Snugpack, Montane.

I like pit zips in my jackets, if it does not come with any I will sew some in.

Buy good cycling shorts, your bum will thank you for it.

 

[Deleted member 33385]

This fits under my helmet - windproof enough... warm enough to prevent brain-freeze via your ears, and doesn't get too warm:

AmzKoi Skull Cap Beanie, Cycling Hat Caps for Under Helmets, Helmet Liner Fits Glasses, Windproof Thermal Fleece Stretchable Hat for Outdoor Sports Running Skiing Riding : Amazon.co.uk: Clothing

Shop AmzKoi Skull Cap Beanie, Cycling Hat Caps for Under Helmets, Helmet Liner Fits Glasses, Windproof Thermal Fleece Stretchable Hat for Outdoor Sports Running Skiing Riding. Free delivery and returns on eligible orders.

www.amazon.co.uk

 

[Phil Dryden]

At the moment ie cold and strong winds - bottom layer Btwin long sleeved black cycling west, then a Btwin short sleeved vest with back pocket, and on top a simple wind resistant fluorescent lightweight jacket. Just long black cycling pants for rides less than 15 miles, and padded long bib tights for longer rides. Helmet with fluorescent cycling cap beneath. A fleece collar is wonderful at keeping the neck, throat, and chin warm. Ordinary socks and trainers as my feet don't really get cold. My problem area is hands so I usually wear 2 pairs of gloves. As the weather warms, I discard various layers till glorious summer days I'm left simply with shorts and a short sleeved top (sigh, wonderful).

 

[Deleted member 33385]

A fleece collar is wonderful at keeping the neck, throat, and chin warm.

This is brilliant, and underpriced - genuine Scotchguard high viz reflective strips, literally brilliant in headlights (even my neck is dayglow):

Enhanced Viz Yellow Suprafleece & Microfibre Neck Warmer Scarf Reflective

Enhanced Viz Yellow Suprafleece & Microfibre Neck Warmer Scarf Reflective in Sporting Goods, Equestrian, Clothing & Accessories, Other Rider Clothing | eBay

www.ebay.co.uk

 

[Gringo]

Rockbors cycling trousers
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/RockBros-MTB-Winter-Cycling-Sportswear-Reflective-Mens-Thermal-Fleece-Trousers/254834374110?_trkparms=ispr=1&hash=item3b554ff5de:g:d54AAOSwZtlaKkLl&amdata=enc:AQAFAAACcBaobrjLl8XobRIiIML1V4Imu%2Fn%2BzU5L90Z278x5ickkrDx%2B2NLp21dg6hHbHAkGMfL6r2oN%2BBSWyCJDZfHlNxxC7vMzuxnv7UJGYXGTqvNq30CBpCzmUlP1L%2B%2BjxkJLcu8gM%2FajoTc8R2qHveS7st7dvCLA1jXdRhSkdylKwoF3KIGVE%2BCF%2B55C7stEPwNhzrJCmbHdA8UrnrKodXD7dBF9AOFipd2oTwNHxhfm22oK5iliAnKSlcO9wGxc5czyfv2QD5XEae1lyBWCsiMkZah2RYbNo9VGqMYgNQgbLncHtux%2B09wGbmd9Xkhjydi2yLi68PGVxZDCFyIdqfbNBo8os5sFVE0vKo%2B%2FEedAI4h0iiCPcuXsjHJbtkaXb8HoMGNHR5aP86MRa4Wuo2ympEeESpQ1sIDSLfRV6NVG37nWCQJUmLHjM9%2B0f3UzLznJLM6CPz%2FbIQtymLyAdSB7jS55EfhddX7g7s8oCKA%2BNz3sBWTQ08Kb23ntCHA%2FcayL8h9nniDvCLGgbfQjHKmT67pe6jIrh3vXxi7jY01uS6FBU42J4sSgc2UJ4Dt%2Fw26pvg%2BeL84RsHAfFyWgCWnZTMvFbYoov6VHtmb2JlmgEM%2FxeJV8UpTrC8IvjO3kMyXabyWdL3Qn%2B2WlhMCldBqjsPVZaroZ8ZiKYXLxY40UPDivzwmR32mbGM785SwWDKEfMS%2B4y0L2QJL9aNtcIzTG8fDxTxo6fk5f54b5BN5GRQZjVtos%2B1EpkWeGio5ivEevamc8FxEk4cl%2FyND2gVi9hHceZvztUO4%2FAuTkz9TxeTqHPn1BTsF7QS3X0SZnB9SZxg%3D%3D|cksum:2548343741106955db2aa12244799272aa146641dd9c|ampid:PL_CLK|clp:2334524
Fleece neck warmer
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Thermal-Fleece-Neck-Warmer-Snood-Winter-Scarf-Face-Mask-Tube-UK-Unisex/133588613495?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&var=433045897092&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2648
Durga (bandanna) under my helmet
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Durag-Du-rag-Headwear-Head-Wrap-Skull-Cap-Doo-Do-Rag-Bandana-Headband-Beanie-Hat/273908426589?_trkparms=ispr=1&hash=item3fc636e75d:g:Fg8AAOSw0iRf7Cag&amdata=enc:AQAFAAACcBaobrjLl8XobRIiIML1V4Imu%2Fn%2BzU5L90Z278x5ickkY3FSd4Ad8xn3oRtkVexxrKcLbYgJkrrZjim%2BylEbjMXmqJ7fdoHx39iWfWBsjtxt0Dqboo%2BB4UV8YZPseWWfK7JoFprbcioO5hE6BevDgaToTgih9SzfBI239Eb1eVHkBdfbAIIhwa75wGaWecj9P%2FIHMZ%2FJlQk9B%2BgKa8TboA4z7E7gK8AhvyYEQCxU5glZ8EoOKg4YokmPQRxQmjFyLesTCuuvXEIKxRb5m1P%2Fcq66udC9s5yoH9azbdHGQqwaOPGopA3g1oE%2BmKRQ5ANExbWz1399JXzkN2hWYT6k9JnkVtxcxE8fH7RVqbQtPk8S51K9mr0HlHVLD%2BnFUHgGMv1LTI2wSksan4LU8dXKDxadLZX0LnxaetnPbJ202kqhtdAufjfTKep3SyHl2V0BS8Li21kyX%2FklOo3nPRNC8h9K2GfIYI%2BWnBXNwwZrAZ5YiB0Tv0esRdLtBSde3ZdbMbFqJ7UtYmoeUmSuNC7R57fa9%2BST%2Bj4UzTKTyRRLceoXpn7raw7EJCL7Q2d8CN1RtLeYRyc8eY7jtLozRP0pR464bdiN9tS%2FsU5Y%2BXPAleZOfP%2BUJ8Vqau6W1ZwVUZ%2BBBiBMB0h60hQaIbHcMTzQX1fos3Yi07u794ZHRNIcIYdHbWYh44HbndcN3TgPz1%2B6PVjBEdJWHZkReAjQE9560vMuT5aFtk04r3AuBzwbp2qhMZZSfpGSNSYoaoXVTKzAyf5gkiJPx22UdOQulzVUeVoZrtiZj5mtT6yGfXWyNY6%2Fz8llnJjGsRjHSPJ2u4Xkng%3D%3D|cksum:273908426589afb0194b7951451ab1b5257850c8132b|ampid:PL_CLK|clp:2334524

Fdx padded shorts
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/FDX-Mens-Pro-Cycling-Bib-Shorts-3D-Gel-Padded-Cycling-Pants-Sublimation-Shorts/324311099525?hash=item4b8272a885:g:NKEAAOSwra9fcLy7

No name Wicking base layer, sports T-shirt to which I’ve added a soft shell front panel (I always get a cold chest) and a dri+tex mtb jacket. Not forgetting my Lidl waterproof walking boots and if it really cold I also wear neoprene socks, aka fisherman’s socks

 

[Deleted member 33385]

Fleece neck warmer
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Thermal-Fleece-Neck-Warmer-Snood-Winter-Scarf-Face-Mask-Tube-UK-Unisex/133588613495?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&var=433045897092&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2648



I searched in vain for one of those that came apart with a zip or velcro fastening - to preserve my rock hard gelled hair style. But they don't seem to exist.

 

[Phil Dryden]

Fleece neck warmer
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Thermal-Fleece-Neck-Warmer-Snood-Winter-Scarf-Face-Mask-Tube-UK-Unisex/133588613495?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&var=433045897092&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2648



I searched in vain for one of those that came apart with a zip or velcro fastening - to preserve my rock hard gelled hair style. But they don't seem to exist.

1.09am?? Sounds like fear of ruining your hairstyle is keeping you out of bed ! No, I've not seen a split one anywhere. Shouldn't be too hard too make in the wee small hours, though!

 

[Gringo]

1.09am?? Sounds like fear of ruining your hairstyle is keeping you out of bed ! No, I've not seen a split one anywhere. Shouldn't be too hard too make in the wee small hours, though!

Easy enough to make, I made one for my aunt because she didn’t want to spoil her hair when I take her out for a walk (89years old)
I used magnetic fasteners like these below, I would avoid zips and Velcro as it could be irritating rubbing against your neck

 

[cannon]

In addition to the above in winter I use a pair of fur lined waterproof Gore-Tex trainers to keep feet warm and dry, like these.

Men's Puma Manilla Hi Fur GTX Gore-Tex Green Warm Lined High Top Boots UK 7.5 | eBay

Hello, You Are Looking At a Pair Of Puma Manilla Hi Fur GTX High Top Boots Trainers In UK 7.5 EU 41. Warm lining. Synthetic / Suede Upper. Still In The Original Box / Reusable Little Red Bag. Eco Ortholite Cushioned Insole.

www.ebay.co.uk

 

[Deleted member 33385]

Easy enough to make, I made one for my aunt because she didn’t want to spoil her hair when I take her out for a walk (89years old)
I used magnetic fasteners like these below, I would avoid zips and Velcro as it could be irritating rubbing against your neck
View attachment 41310

Nice! Making something didn't spring immediately to mind. I'd have to cut something non woven...

1.09am?? Sounds like fear of ruining your hairstyle is keeping you out of bed ! No, I've not seen a split one anywhere. Shouldn't be too hard too make in the wee small hours, though!

Lol, the long rock hard hair spikes emanating from my skull do make it hard to sleep lying down.

 

[richtea99]

Couldn't see an appropriate place to ask this so thought why not here

Regarding gloves , shoes/trainers , helmets

I find padded shorts and cycling shoes are the bare min if you're looking not to wear cycling kit / not look like a divvy. Then add generic T-shirt & fleece:

- Santic Mens Cycling Shorts - not bad for the price
- Specialized Sonoma shoes from a many moons ago. They have a reasonably hard baseplate for pushing on, but you can walk in them in comfort, which matters if you're pottering around off the bike.

I used to cycle in jeans/chinos, but they're just not as comfy.
The same goes for plain trainers - it just feels weird now.

Other bits mostly for comfort or warmth:
- Tudor leggings in cold weather - old school but they do made-to-measure for long legs
- Scott MTB Boa - very clever Boa fixings, but not as good as the scrappy old Specialized Sonomas. Quite annoying since they cost twice the price.
- Fox Clothing Slambozo 2.0 Shorts. Baggy shorts, well made.
- Altura waterproof
- Specialized fingerless gloves because they do big sizes, well made
- no helmet

 

[Deleted member 33385]

if you're looking not to wear cycling kit / not look like a divvy.

I try to look as much of an eyesore as possible when cycling lol!

- no helmet

Oh no, the "H" word!

- Altura waterproof

Hey that looks great! Now that I've lost almost three stones, I may even fit within it's slim fit design without splitting it asunder. My cycling jacket is usually a properly designed waterproof and breathable Karrimor Expedition Gore Tex shell, manufactured before Sportsdirect bought and ruined Karrimor, with a Blackrock reflective waistcoat with arms on top, but the Alturas look very good indeed with breathable waterproofing and some reflective areas (wish it had more). If I can't find something roomier (to accommodate the phone/tablet/laptop shoulder holster...

Anti-Theft Underarm Holster Shoulder Bag Wallet Phone Case ~ Right Hand UK | eBay

When use it, simply shoulder strap penetrate right arm. Double-bag design, the pouch just accommodate the size of an iPhone4, the big bags can accommodate other electronic devices such as mp3 or second phone, it can also carry passports, notepad.

www.ebay.co.uk

...underneath), I might buy one of those - cheers!

Nightvision Typhoon Men's Waterproof Jacket | Altura

With over 20 years of crafting performance products for multiple cycling disciplines. Altura Technical Products & Bikewear. Britain's number 1 cycling apparel brand.

www.altura.co.uk

 

[richtea99]

I try to look as much of an eyesore as possible when cycling lol!

Ah - I meant the polka dot + mirror shades folk. No harm in wearing bright. I have a similar waterproof so bright and orange for motorcycling that I'm usually tail-end Charlie because I can be seen a mile away.

 

[Scorpio]

I bought a black / bright green / dayglow green crash helmet as it was often dark when I cycled home in the winter, very disappointed to find the dayglow paint on the main section faded badly in the summer sunlight while the bright green sides are still eye catching.
Bright tops (but not green) with reflective patterns if possible, Decathlon do some good value ones in a base-layer material that have reflective stripes. Jeans & trainers are everyday wear not specific for the bike.

 

[Deleted member 33385]

Ah - I meant the polka dot + mirror shades folk. No harm in wearing bright. I have a similar waterproof so bright and orange for motorcycling that I'm usually tail-end Charlie because I can be seen a mile away.

Would cyclists dressed as Dalmatians be more visible? Am I mad enough to find out? One the other hand, dots are close to the visual language for camouflage, perhaps not so on the road. Would combining contrasting colours like red–green, yellow–purple or blue–orange make cyclists stand out more? Black and white stripes look too much like a zebra crossing, and is certain to get you run over...