How Many Cycling Jerseys Do I Need? Pro Tips For Your Wardrobe
Are you looking to become a cycling enthusiast?
Whether it’s your first bike or you’ve been riding for years, having the right gear is essential.
And one of the most important pieces of clothing to have when hitting the road is a cycling jersey.
So, how many cycling jerseys do you need? How many pairs of shorts? And what about bibs?
So, let’s dive into the details of how many cycling jerseys, shorts, and bibs you need for optimal performance and comfort on two wheels.
Optimum Number Of Cycling Jerseys
The answer depends on several factors, such as your riding style and the type of jersey that best suits your needs.
If you’re an avid rider who goes out more than 5 times a week no matter the weather, then having up to 6 pieces of cycling jersey may be necessary so that you can stay comfortable throughout any situation.
On the other hand, if you only bike casually 2-3 times a week but still want a few options, 3 to 4 quality jerseys should suffice.
So, the formula is simple. Just add 1 to your weekly riding frequency.
Remember, quality is more important than quantity. No need to go crazy and buy a dozen jerseys.
One premium jersey may last 5 times longer than crappy ones.
Make Sure You Have A Clean Jersey For Every Ride
Having an extra jersey at all times allows some flexibility when it comes time to wash them.
Nobody wants to be stuck wearing a wet, dirty cycling jersey while they attempt to stay dry during their next outing.
This can be especially true on particularly long rides where hygiene and sanitation may become an issue.
That’s why it’s important to have at least one extra fresh jersey for every ride.
Keep Your Jersey In Tip-Top Shape And Replace Old Ones
It is important to keep your cycle jerseys in top condition so you can take advantage of the necessary aerodynamics when riding.
However, after a few years of use, it inevitably starts to become stretched and lose its grip, making it less effective.
Therefore, after two to three years of regular cycling, it would make sense to change jerseys so that you retain the benefits of an aerodynamic fit.
In certain circumstances, such as if you have a fall then this will reduce the life expectancy of a jersey for sure; however, normal wear should not be problematic under normal conditions.
An old jersey can still be saved as a reserve if its functionality has been lost due to stretching while having a new one ready goes without saying.
With any sports, apparel care and maintenance must come first before considering replacement.
Maintaining consistent quality across all elements of your kit is always key!
How Much Do Cycling Jerseys Cost?
When it comes to cycling jersey cost, there is a wide range of prices.
Generally speaking, a good quality cycling jersey with 100% Polyester will cost you between $50-100.
That said, I have been able to find some great deals on jerseys that were as low as $20.
The ones at this price point are usually made from lighter materials and don’t have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but they still perform well in most conditions.
Anything below $20 most likely has low-quality material.
For those looking for higher-end options, there are plenty out there too!
Aero Tech Designs wool jerseys are designed for speed and natural temperature regulation with pocket zip can easily be found for more than $120.
If you’re looking for something even more technical like Pactimo’s jersey with waterproof or breathable fabric features for the wet season, then expect to pay up to $179 or more.
Knowing what your budget is before you start shopping can help you make the right decision and get exactly what you need.
Here are a few points that should help you when budgeting for your cycling apparel:
- What kind of riding do I plan to do?
If you’re planning on doing more intense rides, the investment in better quality materials used in the construction may be worth it.
If you’re just casually going out for leisurely rides, then spending a little bit less might be best. - Do I need special features?
There are plenty of features available depending on what type of biking you will be doing such as pockets for storage, ventilation panels, zippers, etc.
All these extra bells and whistles will add up quickly so if you don’t think it’s necessary then save yourself some money and go with something simpler.
Good quality material and craftsmanship will ensure that your clothes can handle whatever terrain or weather conditions come their way.
Optimum Number of Cycling Shorts
It’s weird to talk about cycling jerseys without talking about shorts – another important item in your wardrobe.
How many pairs of cycling shorts do you need?
Well, just like with jerseys, this depends on your individual needs.
But generally speaking, most cyclists recommend buying at least two to three pairs of quality cycling shorts for regular riding sessions.
If you want to be precise, the formula is the same.
Add 1 to your weekly riding frequency. If you’re riding 5 times a week, it’s best to have 6 cycling shorts in your arsenal.
This way, when one pair gets sweaty from long-distance rides or hard workouts, you have a second fresh pair ready for your next outing.
Can You Wear Two Pairs Of Shorts For Cycling?
Yes, you can wear pants over cycling shorts.
This is a common practice for cyclists, especially those who ride long distances or in cold weather.
Wearing two pairs of bike shorts can provide additional insulation and help reduce chafing.
Some people layer two pairs of shorts with one pair of baggy shorts on top for a more casual look.
Others will wear two pairs of skin-tight bike shorts for maximum aerodynamics.
There are some things to keep in mind when considering wearing two pairs of bike shorts.
It is important to make sure that your shorts fit properly and are comfortable.
You don’t want the bottom layer of shorts to be too tight as this could cause discomfort.
Also, make sure that your shorts are made of breathable materials to keep you cool and comfortable.
Optimum Number of Cycling Bibs
Cycling bibs serve the same purpose as cycling shorts, although they are often more comfortable due to having shoulder straps that keep them in place rather than a waistband.
I personally have 5 bibs to last me an entire week of riding.
The chamois, typically found in biking shorts, is still present in the bibs and can provide extra padding for long rides.
In addition, cycling bibs last longer and are generally more expensive than traditional cycling shorts.
This makes it important to consider how much use you will get out of them before purchasing a pair.
This also reflects why many prefer to reserve cycling bibs for outdoor riding as opposed to indoor workouts with stationary bikes where cycling shorts are sufficient.
Can You Wear Cycling Jerseys / Bibs / Shorts More Than Once Without Washing?
Never ever wear cycling jerseys, bibs, and shorts more than once without washing them.
Because they can absorb sweat, dirt, and other particles that can build up over time, making the material less breathable and increasing the risk of skin irritation, like jock itch.
Additionally, it’s a perfect breeding ground for bacteria that can accumulate on the fabric, leading to saddle sores and infection.
Lastly, wearing dirty cycling apparel can lead to staining and discoloration of the material.
Hygiene is of prime importance and it should be your number one priority.
Always wash your cycling apparel before and after you wear them.
My Verdict
Depending on the frequency with which you ride and your personal preferences, one or two may suffice.
If budgeting is an issue, one good set should do just fine.
Make sure to invest in quality material that’s comfortable and durable enough to handle frequent use.
Additionally, take good care of your jerseys by washing them regularly and following any special instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Ultimately, it’s up to personal preference when deciding how many cycling jerseys/bibs/shorts you need for your rides.
