Using Cycling Clothes for Triathlon Workouts

Cycling clothes become very important during your training sessions as your muscles generate heat that has to be transported from the skin surface through your cycling clothing into the environment. On the other side a good fitting cycling dress is the necessary for easy and unobstructed movement during your triathlon workouts and races.



Cool advantages through "layers"

There are two very important characteristics for your cycling outfit: tailoring and layering. The aim of the cycling clothes layers is to protect your body so as to keep the temperature of the core body constant. When you work out your body generates heat and the core temperature increases. The heat is released as sweat, which has to pass through the dress without any problem. Otherwise you feel uncomfortable. On the contrary, when you slow down, the core temperature decreases and the cycling clothes have to protect your body from cooling.

All types of clothes used for active (outdoor) movements typically require the use of 3 different textile layers:

1. Waterproof and windproof outer layer
2. Insulating middle layer
3. Wicking inner layer which contacts your skin

Take into consideration that all these layers are specifically designed; it is not a matter of putting a sweater over your T-shirt. Cycling apparel as many other sport clothes, are made on the basis of recent textile scientific achievements. There is no way to provide an up to date insight within this article. The right clothes are going to make your rides comfortable and enjoyable.


What kind of clothes to select for your ride

You need to be properly equipped with cycling apparel and cycling accessories if you go into regular training and want to participate in triathlon races.

The essentials for your cycling outfit are:

• Helmet. You must ride your bike with a helmet. In triathlon races you won't even be allowed to start without this really important gadget.In addition to the protection it provides heat control for your head through its dedicated design, holes and air channels.
• Shirt or Jersey. For a race you would always try to use a 1 piece / 2 piece triathlon suit. But for your cycling training you can stick with a traditional cycling outfit. The best is to use short or long sleeve shirts or jerseys, made from materials that adapt themselves to your body as e.g. Lycra / Spandex. The main advantages of these materials come into play with their ability to keep the body and your cycling dress dry.
• Cycling shorts. This very important piece of equipment hopefully ensures that you stay rather free of pain even after long rides. It should give you complete leeway and is made from synthetic lining or stretching leather chamois.
• Triathlon / Race Hats. Optional for cycling, you don't want to miss them for the running leg though. They can be part of your outfit as race hats remove moisture from your head. They are used under your triathlon helmet.
• Cycling gloves. This piece is also critical as it protects your hands from cold, wind and harm when tumbling. It also protects your hands from slipping when they get wet from sweat. Gloves should also be made of breathable layers.
• Socks. They are extremely important in your cycling clothes selection, no matter if the ride is in hot or cold weather. Better avoid cotton socks and include polypropylene or polyester socks in your cycling clothes wardrobe which will help you to keep your feet dry.