Terry Peloton

Category: Cycling Savvy

This is where we cover more technical and practical cycling topics – bikes, gear, clothing, particularly of interest to female cyclists.

  • WINTER CYCLING GLOVES – A HANDY GUIDE.

     

    There’s a lot to consider on the quest for the best winter cycling gloves, so we’re breaking it down for you. Here’s a guide to what to look for and highlights from the Terry collection to keep your hands toasty for many winter miles to come.

     

    How to choose the best winter gloves for cycling

    The best winter cycling gloves for you will be the ones that give you the warmth and comfort you need to enjoy the ride and give you the grip and dexterity you need for the type of riding you will be doing. That might mean more than one pair of winter gloves. Having a few options in different weights and materials, maybe worn in layers, lets you choose the best combination for the conditions you will ride in.

    What to look for in a winter cycling glove.

    Key Features of Winter Cycling Gloves

    Cuffs and closures

    The length and closure of the cuff can make a big difference to both your comfort and how practical a glove is for you. A long cuff keeps the wind from blowing up your sleeve, but whether it is close-fitting and meant to go under the sleeve, or looser and worn over the sleeve, can have a big impact. I often remove my glove while riding to grab something from a pocket, so I prefer over-the-top gloves with no closures. If you ride with a smart watch you might like the same approach. Others might like a snugger fitting cuff with a secure velcro or zipper closure.

    Touchscreen compatibility

    It can be very convenient to pull off the trail and answer a call, navigate with an app, or snap a picture of the winter wonderland you’re riding in, without having to take your gloves off. Look for this feature, especially in lighter gloves.

    Fit versus insulation

    Look out for fit notes to see if a particular glove runs true to size of if you’ll need to size up or down. The goal is a snug fit without constriction. Loose or oversized gloves reduce your control over the handlebars and shifters. Undersized gloves are uncomfortable of course, but can also reduce circulation and make your hands colder.

    Bulk is also part of the fit equation for cold-weather cycling gloves. Winter gloves for skiing and more general uses rely on thick layers of insulation to make them warm. Cycling gloves have to keep the bulk down to allow enough sensitivity for effective control of the bike. Finding the balance between warmth and dexterity that works for you is the trick to choosing your best winter bike gloves. Bear in mind that good wind blocking and water resistance can make a glove with less insulation feel warmer.

    Fabric Choices for Winter Bike Gloves

    If you prefer natural or sustainable fibers, there are good options with merino wool, especially in lighter gloves. Synthetic fibers are more often used in heavier cycling gloves, especially when the essential combination of water resistance, windproofing and breathability come into play. Fabrics like GoreTex, Gore Windstopper, and WindTex are well known choices, other brands may offer similar properties.

    Are neoprene gloves good for cycling?

    Fully neoprene gloves might seem like a good option since they’re used for water sports in cold, wet conditions. It can be a good solution in pouring rain in warmer weather, but won’t perform as well in the winter. Although it is completely waterproof, it is not very breathable. Gloves that utilize neoprene as the body fabric will likely make you sweat more and then trap the moisture against the skin, which can lead to uncomfortable chills.

    How warm do your winter cycling gloves need to be?

    Do your hands get cold during other activities in winter? What is the range of conditions you expect to ride in? The answers will give you a good idea of how much protection from the cold you need to look for.

    The challenge is knowing which of the many materials will give you the amount of warmth you need. One important thing to bear in mind is breathability. A breathable glove allows moisture from sweat to evaporate, so the insulation can work as intended. A non-breathable glove with the same insulation will trap chilling dampness next to your skin. One fabric to avoid in the quest for warmth: cotton. Cotton while soft, tends to hold moisture and lose any insulating value. Avoid cotton in any gloves and clothing you plan to use for strenuous activities in the cold.

    Do you need padding in a winter cycling glove?

    Padding helps reduce soreness by softening pressure points as well as absorbing shocks and vibrations from the road. Padded palms also reduce numbness by relieving pressure on the ulnar nerve in your hand. Different riders will have different sensitivities and tolerances around these issues, so it will take a little experimentation to find what works best for you.

    Gloves made for mountain biking and road cycling will tend to have padding in different places, as your hands rest in different spots on flat versus drop handlebars.

    What’s Best For Cold Weather Cycling—Gloves, Mittens or Both?

    This comes down to how cold your hands get, what kind of conditions you will ride in, and the bike you will be riding.

    For really cold conditions, mittens are warmer than gloves, because when your fingers are clustered together they do not lose heat as quickly as they do in gloves. On the other hand (pun intended), with mittens you give up dexterity and sensitivity, which can make it harder to use some brake and gear-shifting setups.

    “Lobster claw” mitts, or “lobster gloves,” allow a good compromise between warmth and finger movement for cyclists. Fingers are clustered together as in mittens, but there’s a split to allow some of your fingers to move separately. Some split mittens contain the first two fingers separately from the others, some contain only the pointer finger so the other three can huddle. Both styles make it much easier to use normal hand positions on the hoods, and operate brakes and gears with good control, while keeping fingers and hands warmer.

    For those who are comfortable cycling in mittens, a great combination is an insulated glove inside a wind and waterproof shell mitt. You can add or remove the shell any time needed, and slip a hand warmer inside the shell next to your fingers when it gets really cold. My hands stay comfortable down to zero with a combination like this, but it wouldn’t allow enough dexterity to work the shifters well on a road bike.

    Glove layering can also work to give additional warmth without losing too much control over shifters, similar to wearing a baselayer under a shell. A close-fitting glove in a lightweight microfleece fabric or merino wool, or a glove liner, inside a wind and waterproof glove, can actually be warmer than a heavier glove on its own.

    Cycling Gloves For Cool Conditions – 60° to 45°

    Just keeping chilly air off your fingers can be enough to keep you comfy in this temperature range. A thin glove or liner can do the job. Insulation and wind blocking are not so important, so look at features like grip, padding, touchscreen friendliness. 

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    Ridecamp Gloves

    Full fingers give more warmth than fingerless gloves, but these are breathable enough to stay comfortable for just the padding benefits on warmer trail rides. 

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    Brisker Gloves

    Delivers the perfect amount of insulation to block out damp, cool temperatures while maintaining exceptional dexterity and control of your bike.

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    Full Finger Light Glove

    Designed for rides above 50° with UV protection, good padding and fun color options. 

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    Cycling Gloves For Chilly Rides – 45° to Near Freezing

    Windblocking starts to make a real difference at these temps, and some insulation will be helpful if your hands tend to get cold.

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    FF Windstopper Glove

    Great padding and fit preserve dexterity with windproofing, water resistance and breathability. 

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    Active Fleece Wind Mitten

    Merino wool blend, good grip, touchscreen compatible, and windproof where you need it. If you prefer a classic glove, checkout it’s five-finger counterpart: the Active Fleece Glove.

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    Hybrid Weather Glove

    A glove that converts to a mitt, and has a great set of features. Good grip, windproofing, water resistance, breathability, touchscreen-friendly and great visibility. 

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    Crosspoint Wind Glove

    Another option that will up your visibility points. It uses strategically placed padding and triple-layer Artex windproof, waterproof, and breathable technology for the optimal balance of comfort and weather protection. Layer it with the Thermal Merino Gloves for ultimate warmth and winter riding comfort. 

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    Windstopper Essential Glove

    Utilizes GORE-TEX INFINIUM WINDSTOPPER technology to provide premium protection with a clean, simple construction. 

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    Perfetto Gloves

    Windproof, water-resistant, lightly insulated with easy on/off and great comfort. 

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    Cycling Gloves For Cold Rides – Freezing or below

    Look for well insulated gloves with good wind blocking fabric. Layering gloves can keep you riding happily when it’s this cold, and switching to mitts if they work for you.

    Windstopper Split Mitt

    Half glove, half mitten “lobster claw” styling with windproofing, water-resistance, breathability, fleecy insulation and excellent padding.

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    GTX Infinium Thermo Split Glove

    Windproof, waterproof, insulated, mitten-like warmth with added dexterity.

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    C5 GTX Thermo Glove

    Designed to excel on cold wet rides, this glove may also reach below freezing with wind and waterproofing, plus good insulation and breathability. 

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    Cycling Gloves For Serious Cold – Well Below Freezing

    Down in this temperature range, we would look for heavy insulation, multiple layers, and supplemental heat. 45NRTH leaves all other gloves in the drawer when it comes to extreme temperatures.

     

    Sturmfist 5 Gloves

    Ideal for temps ranging from 15-35 degrees, these gloves protect against cold, wind, and water—all the elements that can make or break a ride.

     

     

     

     

    Sturmfist 4 Gloves

    Combines a wind-and-water resistant shell fabric paired with Primaloft insulation and a Merino-wool blend liner to be your best riding companion when temps have plunged below 15 degrees F. Engineered with an innovative, four-compartment construction, it combines a glove’s dexterity benefits with the warmth of a mitten.

     

    However, there’s an also option that does an end-run around gloves altogether: bar mitts.

    Cobrafist Pogies

    The ultimate deep winter cycling option. Almost like keeping your hands indoors while you’re out for a ride. If you ride in the deep cold often you will love this upgrade. Only works with flat bar setups. 

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    Save 25% on all these incredible cycling glove options throughout the end of October 2023 when you use code: OW25 at checkout.

    Offer cannot be applied to prior purchases or combined with any other discounts or promotions. Expires 11:59PM 10/31/23.

  • TIPS FOR HOT WEATHER CYCLING.

    Hot Weather Cycling Tips

    High temperatures don’t have to stop you enjoying a good bike ride. Just follow these tips and guidelines to stay cool and safe when the mercury climbs higher than Mont Ventoux.

    Summertime, and the livin’ is easy… except when it gets above 90°

    Hot weather cycling is a lot more appealing than setting out for a ride in cold, gray, wintry weather. Longer days, no restrictive layers of clothing, easier pedaling with relaxed, warmed up muscles. But riding in hot weather brings another set of challenges, and really hot weather can bring real danger.

    When we’re cycling in hot weather, we’re dealing with our bodies’ efforts to maintain an optimum temperature.

    • We sweat, which allows heat to escape via evaporation.
    • Our blood flow is diverted from major organs (including the brain) and muscles to the skin, where it can cool, which of course is why many of us look flushed when we’re hot.
    • Our heart rate goes up, increasing that blood flow to the skin, and maintaining sufficient oxygen supply to organs and muscles.

    The hotter it is, the faster we get overheated, and the less effort it takes to get there. Overheating can happen gradually at first, but can come on really fast when you get toward the danger zone, so pay attention to how you feel and don’t push it if you notice any symptoms of overheating – it’s time to take a break and cool yourself down.

    Symptoms of overheating

    • Sweating normally then suddenly sweating stops
    • Feeling chilly or cold
    • Feeling dizzy or faint
    • Lightheadedness, confusion
    • Feeling nauseous
    • Vomiting
    • Suddenly feeling weak
    • Heat cramps in larger muscle groups

    If we continue to exercise when our core temperature is above optimum levels, we risk heat stress, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

    Heat stress is where you get one or more of the above symptoms, and when severe enough it becomes heat exhaustion: you may collapse or be unable to continue. If it’s bad enough you may find you have a day or so where it feels like you have the flu.

    It’s dangerous because there’s a thin line between severe heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

    Heat stroke is where your brain heats up to the point where it can no longer function correctly, with loss of consciousness, and bodily functions. It can be fatal.

    Severe heat exhaustion makes most of its victims much more susceptible in the future.

    Keys to avoiding overheating when cycling in hot weather

    Drink a little, often, to stay hydrated

    Pre-hydrate and drink often while you ride. Plan on drinking one water bottle per hour if the weather is cool and you are not riding hard. Drink up to two water bottles per hour if it is hot, if you are riding at high altitude, or if you ride at a high-intensity level.

    Carry two water bottles or the equivalent in a hydration system such as the Kitsuma Hyrdration Pack.

    The wind can make you feel cool, but don’t be fooled. The wind evaporates your perspiration. So drink before you are thirsty. Once you are dehydrated, it’s too late. Cool fluids go down more easily. Drink some calories while you’re at it. A sport/fluid replacement drink, half-strength juice, or Gatorade—whatever you’ve tried before that works for you. Lost fluids decrease performance. Dehydration increases heat stress and hypothermia.

    Avoid over-hydrating

    “Drink! Drink! Drink!” Important advice. But too much of a good thing can cause problems, too. Unless trained to do so, athletes can’t process more than one quart of fluid per hour.

    • Too much fluid can cause gastrointestinal bloating, which basically means you’ll be uncomfortable.
    • Too much fluid can also result in low blood sodium—a dangerous condition described next.

    Maintain salt and electrolyte levels

    Water and most fluid replacement drinks don’t have enough sodium to replace that lost with sweating. Your body usually has enough sodium reserves to last about five quarts of sweat—five hours of moderate exercise in cool conditions or just a couple of hours when working hard in the heat.

    Low blood sodium (hyponatremia) is the main medical problem necessitating emergency treatment and hospitalization in endurance aerobic sports such as centuries and marathons.

    • Most riders should plan on consuming salty foods the day before and the breakfast of a day of exercise in the heat.
    • Most prepared foods (sandwiches, cookies, muffins) are high in sodium.
    • Consume salty snacks during long rides and choose fluids, bars, and gels with high-sodium content.

    Use sun protection

    Limit your exposure to the sun by choosing shady routes if you can, and resting in the shade whenever possible.

    Use a waterproof sunblock with a high SPF rating, so it doesn’t get washed off as you sweat. Apply to exposed skin about 45 minutes before you ride and refresh it every couple of hours or so.

     

    Soleil Flow in Peaks – a customer favorite, offering great sun protection with relaxed fit comfort.

    Surprisingly to many, long sleeves can actually be cooler than short sleeves or sleeveless tops for cycling, or any other activity in the sun. The key is to choose a lightweight, wicking fabric with good sun reflecting properties. The fabric still allows cooling evaporation but also keeps the sun off the skin, which feels cooler and avoids sunburn (which reduces the skin’s cooling ability). Our Soleil collection was developed with this in mind – wonderful for cycling in hot weather, and loved by many for golf, tennis, hiking, boating – all kinds of fun in the sun.

    Shop our full range of sun protective products here.

    Avoid riding in the hottest parts of the day

    As Jodi, our Terry friend in Phoenix, Arizona, recommends, limit your cycling trips to the cool part of the day if you have the option. Otherwise, plan your day so you can take a siesta or a shady lunch break in the middle of the day.

    Another thing to look out for in the heat: melting road surfaces

    Asphalt softens in hot conditions, and can make it harder to pedal as your tires stick to the road a little. If it’s hot enough it can actually create a hazard by making it hard to maneuver your bike– look out, especially for worn sections of road in urban areas, where the tar has come to the surface over the aggregate.

    Cyclist riding on a Terry bicycle next to a wall of packed snow or exposed glacier along a road
    “Ride next to a glacier” might be a good hot weather cycling tip…if you happen to find one handy!

    Three Ps for Hot Weather Cycling

    Planning

    Plan ahead for your ride – set yourself up with water, sports drinks, snacks and food for the length of ride you have in mind, extra if you can carry it. Stock up on sunblock and cooling, shading clothing options.

    Precautions

    Take Precautions – use sun protection, choose shady routes, pay attention to how you feel. If you can, choose to ride in the cooler part of the day, avoid the highest temperatures if you can, and if you’re not enjoying it anymore feel free to quit or take a break.

    Patience

    Have Patience – in really hot weather, allow extra time for frequent rests and a slower pace. Above around 100° you should rest completely for 15 minutes in each hour of activity. You’re going to get where you’re going a lot slower at that rate, so make allowances. Ride at an easier pace, especially when climbing, don’t rush it, and don’t skip the rest stops.

    When is it too hot to ride?

    The point where conditions are just too hot for cycling is different for different riders. Your fitness, conditioning, adaptation to heat, previous heat stress exposure, and body shape all come into play – they are all factors influencing your body’s ability to cool itself. Your tolerance for discomfort comes into play as well. However, these guidelines apply to everyone:

    • If you find you can’t ride without feeling overheated, it’s too hot.
    • If it’s hot enough to stop you from enjoying the ride, it’s too hot.
    • If your tires have melted, yes, it’s probably too hot.

  • BEST BIKE TO WORK CLOTHING FOR ARRIVING IN STYLE.

    Bike to Work Day – May 19th this year, 2023 – gives many people a great reason to reignite their love of riding to work or encourage them to take on a two-wheeled commute for the first time. Of course, cycling to work can call for quite a bit of preparation. Besides bike maintenance, physical fitness, and getting comfortable with urban cycling, a big obstacle to commuting by bike is having suitable bike to work clothing.

    In fact, many will tell you that you don’t need any special clothes at all to ride a bike to work. Just something comfortable, preferably moisture wicking, and maybe layers you can add and subtract from your outfit to deal with changing temperatures and the possibility of wet weather.

    But if you need to look professional at work, and sometimes join friends to relax after hours, you’ll want something suitable for each part of your busy day. Changing and keeping track of clothing starts to be a logistical challenge. Additionally, if you are commuting by bike regularly or seeking to start, you’re going to expect more from your bike to work clothing.

    Here’s your guide to the best pieces in our Spring/Summer line that we recommend adding to your bike to work wardrobe

    First, let’s step into the dress shop.

    Wouldn’t it be great if one outfit could do it all? Moving smoothly from a morning ride, through a day at the office, to an evening on the town is a lot to ask of an outfit. Comfortable to ride in means the cut and fit has to be just right, with good moisture control, and comfort through a range of temperatures; fitting in at the workplace means striking the right balance of all-day comfort and professional appearance. To make the transition to evening, you’ll need something with extra personality.

    Not many pieces can do all that, but we created the Cyclo Dress and carry a range of one-piece wonders from Krimson Klover, Maloja, and Benares that were designed with these challenges in mind. 

    The Cyclo Dress is available in two distinct prints: Blue Palm (shown above) and Moonflower.

    Cyclo Dress: Light, breathable, UPF 50+ and made to move with you all summer long and from one activity to the next. Equipped with a hidden, front zipper for increased ventilation and a classic, a-line cut so you always arrive sweat-free and in style.

    Emma Dress
    Piper Dress

    Emma & Piper: ​​Thoughtfully designed by Krimson Klover, these adventure-ready, travel weight styles feature built-in bras and soft, stretchy, and lightweight performance fabrics to keep you comfortable and gently supported no matter where you’re headed. Oh, and of course they have pockets!

    Nuova Dress
    Adventure Multi Sport Dress

    Nuova & Adventure Multi Sport Dresses: If you decide to play hooky and take the scenic route, you can seamlessly stroll into a meeting wearing one of Maloja’s elevated active dresses without anyone knowing you were just in the saddle. 

    Dolman Dress

    Dolman Dress: A very bike friendly silhouette and a fit that is as flattering as it is forgiving makes the Dolman Dress from Benares easy-peasy to carry in your bike bag.

    Soleil – sun protection and versatility make a great bike to work clothing choice

    The Soleil collection is another line with great qualities for bike to work clothing – performance fabrics, built in UPF 50+ protection, great comfort and versatility, and dresses up and layers wonderfully. If you did want to ditch your Soleil upon arriving to work, it folds up to nearly nothing and is wrinkle resistant so you’ll still look polished for the trip home.

    With an astounding array of options in sleeve length and fit, there is something for every type of rider in our Soleil collection.

    “My Soleil cycling tops are the best. Not only do they protect my fair skin from the sun, but also allow me to go right from bike to desk and still look well dressed.  If I pair the top with a cardigan or blazer, I’m even ready for a meeting or lunch.” – Terry Customer Service Queen, Lisa

    Some of our other bike to work clothing favorites:

    Liners – your best option for turning anything into cycling wear

    We have a most impressive lineup of liners, ready to be combined with your favorite pieces so you can commute—and even go the distance—in comfort. Integrating a padded liner into your existing wardrobe is one of the easiest ways to go bike mode in a flash.

    Cyclo Brief 2.0 – Lowest profile liner, with minimalist Reticulated Chamois.
    Universal 5 Inch Liner – Length to clear your saddle, good for up to 2 hours.
    Performance Liner – Best choice for serious cycling and lengthy commutes, paired with our premium Flex Air chamois.
    Aria & Aria 8 Inch – Designed for those who want a liner with one of Terry’s more comprehensive Italian chamois (Fleet Air) for longer riding options. Available in your choice of 6.5 inch or 8 inch inseam.
    Mixie Liner – Transforms streetwear into bikewear and coordinates beautifully with our Mixie Skirt.

    Shop all bike liners here.

    Below-The-Knee & Baggy Bike Bottoms 

    The longer length and tapered-but-not-tight fit make these BTK bottoms very work appropriate while providing comfort and protection for commuting, trail riding, hiking, or travel.

    The Vista BTK rides well with our equally office-friendly Vista Top.

    Vista BTK – The lightweight stretch woven fabric is durable for daily use in the city or the backcountry; where you ride it is entirely up to you. The Vista BTK employs pull-on styling with a wide stretch waistband to easily and comfortably accommodate a wide variety of body types and comes equipped with a removable and minimalist, Cyclo Brief 2.0 liner. 16.75 inch inseam.

    On chillier commutes, the Metro BTK and Henley Jersey are a perfect combo.

    Metro BTK – A full length gusset through the crotch makes it very pedal friendly and having a detachable, padded Universal liner and all kinds of pockets allows you the freedom of wearing it on the bike and beyond. Made from recycled polyester, it’s lightweight, durable, and quiet in motion. 16.5 inch inseam. View the full Metro line for more commuter savvy styles.

    Joanie Capri – A Terry Staff Favorite, the Joanie Capri by Club Ride is padless so you’re free to pair it up with your favorite liner or wear it solo and enjoy the easy fit construction. 16.5 inch inseam.

    Pair the Joanie Capri with the Bandara Top to complete your bike to work ensemble. The feminine and forgiving fit and pearl snap buttons make it look more like a blouse than a cycling jersey, but don’t let that fool you: it’s made with a lightweight, quick-drying, UPF 50+ stretch woven fabric, and features a hidden zippered pocket, breathable mesh panels, and reflective accents.

    Navaeh 11 Bike Short
    Navaeh Bliss Novelty Short
    Navaeh 7 Novelty Short

    Zoic’s answer to commuter-casual comes in the form of baggy shorts. Cut for comfort and style, both on and off the bike, and available in a variety of colors and patterns as well as both regular and plus sizing, their Navaeh Shorts are excellent contenders for your bike to work wardrobe.

    Men’s Guide 11 Bike Short
    Men’s Premium Liner
    Men’s Ether 12 Bike Short

    We’ve even brought in some Men’s bottoms from Zoic with a similar host of performance features to show cycle commuting doesn’t have to just be for us chicas.

    Check out our blog on the News In Loose Fit Shorts.

    Cycling Skorts & Skirts

    Metro Skort styled with the Tech Tee Flow
    Rover Skort styled with the Rover 3/4 Sleeve Top

    Skorts and Skirts have long been a pillar in our go-anywhere and do-anything approach to cycling apparel. Our Metro Skort and Rover Skort are particularly versatile and primed for commuting because they combine the clean lines and sophisticated femininity of a skirt, with performance packed, detachable liners that can be shed when it’s time to clock into your work day. 

    The Wellington Skort is vetted for your venture and well suited for all-day wear with a padless, integrated liner, wrinkle resistance, UPF 40+ sun protection, and 4-way stretch.

    Mixie Skirt – Coordinates beautifully with any liner or short, but pairs particularly well with the Mixie Liner.
    Zipper Skirt – Quick drying and easy to care for.
    Mixie Ultra Skirt – Snap closures provide more coverage and flexibility of use.
    Wrapper Skirt – Simple wrap-style skirt, available in sizes XS-3X.

    Our Mixie Skirt, Mixie Ultra, Wrapper Skirt, and Zipper Skirt are considered to be the ultimate commuter and travel staples by many. Modest in length and ready to be thrown over your spandex or into your bike bag at a moment’s notice, they are clever, quick cover companions that help ensure you’re within dress code.

    Check out our full selection of cycling skorts & skirts here.

    Tees With Technical Prowess

    Tech Tank
    Tech Tee Flow Short Sleeve
    Tech Tee Flow Long Sleeve
    Rover 3/4 Sleeve Top

    Casually styled yet packed full of performance, our Tech Tee line and new Rover 3/4 Sleeve Top provide a street smart approach to bike apparel. Beyond the loose, flowing fit, the magic is in the moisture wicking, sun protective fabric we use to keep you cool and dry throughout your commute, work day, and happy hour festivities.

    “The Tech Tee Flow Long Sleeve is such a comfortable, lightweight shirt. The first time I wore it, I used it as an undershirt for my scrubs. I was crazy comfortable but disappointed no one could see the cute design. As the weather gets warmer, I’ll be wearing it out for all my spring bike rides. I can’t wait!” – Rated 5 stars by Terry Customer, Chris M.

    Multifunctional Footwear

    Via Cycling Shoe – Ocean Blue
    Via Cycling Shoe – Limited edition Snow Leopard
    Via Cycling Shoe – Black

    The Via Shoe from TIEM combines the casual aesthetic of your favorite sneaker with the technical excellence of a cycling specific cleat. The stiff bottom design provides increased power behind your pedaling and has a recessed SPD assembly—meaning the part where you clip into your bike’s pedals isn’t sticking out so you can move off the bike and walk into the office with ease.

    The walkable, recessed cleat construction eliminates the need to lug an additional pair of shoes with you to work.

    The Supporting Cast – Bras & Baselayers

    Lay the foundation for a successful commute with a premier support system in the form of breathable, moisture wicking bras and baselayers that excel at cycling.

    Cindrel Bra – Made to feel like second skin and ideal for any kind of sport and any degree of intensity required of your commute. 
    Barely Bra – Best all-purpose bra for cycling. Super comfortable and made of a soft, quick-dry nylon/spandex with HeiQ Fresh odor control.
    Rosso Corsa Bra – Cycling-specific bra that delivers medium support and takes breathability to the extreme.
    Pro Mesh Sleeveless Base Layer: This pro-level baselayer from Castelli blends graphic splendor, Italian fit and advanced moisture management to keep your core cool and overshirt dry.

    Shop all bras & base layers here.

    Hi Viz

    Last, but definitely not least, we recommend investing in some reflective gear to ensure you’re seen by drivers and fellow pedestrians, especially during the low light hours that often occur in tandem with commuting to and from work. 

    Meet the NEW Mistral Packable Jacket

    Mistral Jacket: Eye catching, weightless, translucent and completely wind protective, our first-ever shell jacket packs into its own rear zip pocket when not in use for easy storage in your bike bag or jersey pocket. 

    Update for 2023, our Hybrid Jacket is available in two eye-arresting colorways: Charcoal/Psycho and Neon Lime

    Hybrid Bike Jacket: Full wind protection in front; moisture transport and temperature regulation in rear; high visibility where it counts — the Hybrid Jacket is a do it all in one garment to round out your riding repertoire.

    Our Boleros are excellent for increasing your visibility without any bulk.

    Bolero Light: Our lightweight Boleros are a convenient way to incorporate a hi viz accent into your outfit and are the perfect warm-up for sleeveless and short sleeved tops or sun protection (UPF 50+) throughout the spring and summer. 

    Shop The Hi Viz collection

    Tailwinds and happy travels! May all your bike to work clothing serve you well for bike month and beyond.

  • Best Women’s Bike Shorts Roundup

    Terry Freedom 2-in-1 Bike Short, with Soleil Long Sleeve Flow in Zoom | Blue

    Whatever type of cycling you enjoy, we aim to bring you the best women’s bike shorts available. It’s a big part of our mission to help more women enjoy riding bikes, comfortably and beautifully!

    With that in mind, we’re introducing an exciting new array of bike shorts for women cyclists this year. There are new options for all kinds of riding, from versatile bike shorts that can adapt seamlessly through to other activities, to hard core padded cycling shorts for road and multi-day tours.

    The common goal is helping you achieve optimal performance, while feeling and looking your best. No matter what kind of cycling you like, we have bike shorts that will help you enjoy the ride even more.

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    What Makes the Best Bike Shorts for Women?

    Finding your ideal bike shorts can feel like a lifetime quest. To start with, we are all different shapes and sizes, so finding shorts that fit your particular shape comfortably can be challenge enough.

    Most importantly, your best bike shorts will be those that let you ride in comfort for as long as you want to, without chafing or saddle sores. Fabric choices, amount of compression, chamois options, panel construction, leg length, hem height and gripper styles all come into play.

    Then of course, cycling encompasses a real variety of activities. All are united by two wheels, but different cycling pursuits involve very different environments, positions, durations and demands.

    Those varied requirements put the emphasis on different features for different riders. The best bike shorts for one type of riding won’t be so good for others, and what’s most comfortable for one rider might not be comfortable at all for another. It’s a very personal thing.

    On top of all that, there’s fashion. Black bike shorts are classic for a reason: they go with anything, anywhere, anytime. That said, color and pattern let you mix things up, and make the ride more fun. We are all in favor of that!

    A lineup of new bike shorts for 2022: Breakaway LTD, Vista, Soleil LTD, Wayfarer

    All of this means that setting out to offer the best in bike shorts for female cyclists really means offering a lot of different choices, all of which are the best in different ways.

    Keep reading for highlights of our new women’s bike shorts lineup for 2022, and the details you need to choose the right pair for you. At least one just might become your new favorite…

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    Our Best New Women’s Bike Shorts

    Best bike short for leg-band-free comfort – Easy Rider Bike Short

    The Easy Rider is completely focused on comfort, featuring a sensuous performance fabric with a luxurious matte-sueded texture. The waistband is extra high, and there are no leg grippers at all! The raw cut legs are designed to rise a little as you ride, giving blissful unrestricted comfort even on long rides.

    Shop the Easy Rider

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    Best all-round women’s bike short with extra visibility – Breakaway LTD Bike Short

    Delivers great performance features at an attractive price point, with 6 panel construction and moderate compression. The Breakaway LTD adds hits of high-viz fabric to give you extra bio-motion visibility.

    Shop the Breakaway LTD

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    Best women’s performance cycling short with extra visibility – Bella Bike Short Limited Edition

    The Bella has earned its place as the standard by which all women’s performance cycling shorts are judged. This Limited Edition features the same beloved fabric, style, fit, padding and compression, with the addition of reflective trim applied throughout the contrast seaming.

    Shop the Bella Bike Short Limited Edition

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    Best bike short for trails and beyond – Vista Short

    Vista opens new possibilities, with an innovative wide waistband and unique stretch twill fabric that gives a wonderful fit for many different body shapes. It’s paired with our new Cyclo Brief 2.0, so you can wear it for serious cycling or without the liner for hiking, travel, you name it.

    Shop the Vista Short

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    Best performance bike short with optional liner – Freedom 2-in-1 Bike Short

    The Freedom 2-in-1 is a new concept in bike shorts that can bridge the gap between performance cycling and many other activities where a liner is not required. That means a sleeker look and no chamois seaming. Think yoga, shopping, club?

    The short features moderate compression in a nylon/spandex blend. Paired with the new Cyclo Brief 2.0, with our minimalist Reticulated Chamois, it’s capable of serious cycling performance when lighter padding is sufficient.

    Shop the Freedom 2-in-1 Bike Short

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    Best options to turn anything into cycling gear

    You’ll be spoilt for choice this year! We’re introducing an array of new options in cycling liner shorts, so you can combine your favorite pieces with a liner that will go the distance in comfort, no matter what kind of cycling you enjoy.

    Cyclo Brief 2.0 – lowest profile liner, with minimalist Reticulated Chamois
    Universal 5 inch Bike Liner – length to clear your saddle, good for up to 2 hours
    Performance Bike Liner – best choice for serious cycling, premium chamois
    Mixie Bike Liner – transforms streetwear into bikewear, coordinates beautifully with our Mixie Skirt

    Cyclo Brief 2.0, Universal 5 inch Bike Liner, Performance Bike Liner, Mixie Bike Liner

    Shop all liners

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    Best Women’s Bike Shorts for Different Cycling Pursuits

    Terry Metro Below The Knee Bike Capri, with Henley Jersey

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    Best loose fit bike shorts for trails & travel – Metro Below the Knee Bike Capri

    For those who prefer a non-lycra approach, the Metro BTK is a great option – its stretch woven fabric and tapered-but-not-tight fit provide comfort and protection for trails, hiking, work or travel.

    Shop the Metro BTK

    Shop all Metro

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    Best women’s bike shorts for road cycling & high performance – Power Bike Short

    Power Bike Short, best women's bike shorts for high performance cycling

    A classic in the making, with compression and comfort taken to a new level. If you ride hard and long, and demand more, these are for you.

    Shop Power Short

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    Terry Rebel Bike Short with Sun Goddess in Blue Spokes

    Best women’s bike shorts for Peloton, spin, & indoor cycling – Rebel Bike Short

    Rebel Bike Short showing ventilation accent on leg. Best women's bike shorts for Peloton and indoor cycling

    The Rebel Short is designed to excel in high heat. Features moderate compression, for an adaptable, flattering fit. Super lightweight, highly breathable, with stylish, playful accents doing double duty as ventilation – these are a great choice for staying cool while looking hot!

    Shop Rebel Short

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    Best budget bike shorts – Actif Bike Short

    Recognized by Bicycling magazine for best value under $60. The Actif doesn’t cut corners on comfort, with best-in-class fit, features and chamois padding.

    Shop the Actif Short

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    Best bike shorts for everyday comfort – Bike Bermuda

    Bike Bermuda, best women's bike shorts for all around comfort, in Charcoal

    Built in the USA and ridden everywhere. The Bike Bermuda features the same silky fabric and chamois as the ever-popular Breakaway, with a longer leg, higher rise, handy pocket and moderate compression for a forgiving fit, and great comfort.

    Shop Bike Bermuda

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    Mixie Tank and Wayfarer Short in Azurite
    Mixie Tank and Wayfarer Short in Azurite

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    Best women’s bike shorts for touring – Wayfarer Bike Short

    Wayfarer Bike Short in Azurite

    Luxurious fabric and fit for all-day comfort; longer length and pockets. A great choice for long and multiple rides, in exciting new color choices for perfect coordination with your top.

    New for 2022 – Wayfarer 7

    Featuring the same gorgeous, next-to-skin performance fabric, construction and features, in a shorter length. Great for hotter conditions or higher tan lines.

    Shop Wayfarer

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    Best high-waisted women’s bike shorts – Hi Rise Holster Bike Short

    Holster Hi Rise Bike Short

    Hi Rise Holster is a Terry best-seller, thanks to the comfort of its extra-high-waisted fit. Many customers say these are the best, most comfortable shorts they have ever owned. Sculpted panels, long length and deep pockets. A versatile short, ready for touring, gravel, or MTB.

    Shop Holster Hi Rise

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    Soleil Short in Black | Digi Sunset, with Soleil Racer Tank in Synthesized | Sun

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    Updated with new prints for 2022 – Soleil Bike Short

    Updated with a great selection of coordinating prints for 2022. Soleil Short is becoming a firm favorite for comfort, UPF protection and versatility. Best women’s bike short for performance with personality.

    Shop Soleil Short

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    Those are just the highlights! We make cycling shorts for just about every shape, size and type of rider. Shop our complete selection here.

    If you would like some help with choosing the right shorts, our customer service team has lots of experience matching riders with the best gear for their needs. Give them a call or shoot an email over, they would love to help!

    800-289-8379 or customerservice@terrybicycles.com

  • BEST WINTER CYCLING GEAR – STAFF PICKS FOR 2022.

    Winter Cycling Gear Staff Picks

     

    Temperatures are plummeting, but we plan to keep riding through the winter months, so it’s time to pick out our best winter cycling gear! 

    As someone hardy around here said, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad outfits!” With the right winter cycling clothes in your wardrobe, and appropriate equipment, you can keep riding all year round, even when temperatures drop toward zero. 

    Sure, it does get more challenging, but overcoming the elements to enjoy the freedom of cycling and get a good workout in the cold makes it even more rewarding. There’s no reason to stop cycling as long as you’re warm enough to enjoy it, and equipped to ride safely when you encounter slippery surfaces and unexpected weather conditions. 

    What should I look for to find the best winter cycling gear?

    Of course, the main goal for winter cycling clothing is to maintain a comfortable body temperature without getting clammy from sweat. That means keeping body heat in, while allowing ventilation so you can avoid overheating. Add the need to fend off all kinds of rain and snow, and be as conspicuous as possible in low-light, reduced-visibility conditions, and it’s clear we need some specialized cold weather gear if we’re going to enjoy the ride fully.  

    Some of these requirements are met really well with clothing made for skiing, since both sports deal with periods of high and low activity in freezing temperatures and cold wind. However, there are several ways cycling specific winter clothing works better for us.  

    • Winter bike clothing gives a better range of motion in the arms and torso forward cycling position.
    • It tends to be tailored for better aerodynamics – loose clothing flaps in the wind and wastes your energy.
    • It will usually have a more practical pocket layout for access on the go, rear pockets especially.
    • Better visibility is commonly built in, with reflective details and high-viz colors.
    • Cycling gear is generally padded at contact points, where it really counts.

    Here’s a shortcut to the best in winter gear at Terry: Our Cool Weather Collection

    How to stay warm and comfortable when cycling in sub-freezing temperatures

    Keep these important ideas in mind as you prepare to dress for cold weather cycling.

    • Use layering to keep your core warm: wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a windproof, waterproof top-layer. 
    • Choose items with adjustable ventilation, and breathable fabrics, so you can avoid getting wet from sweating during strenuous parts of the ride. When you ease off, that dampness can make you chilled very quickly. It’s very easy to overheat riding up a climb, only to freeze to the bone on a long descent.
    • Cold feet and hands will ruin the fun quickly, so invest in insulated coverings to keep feet warm and hands toasty.
    • Around 10% of your body heat is lost through your uncovered head, and ears freeze first. In milder temperatures a fleece ear band may be enough to keep your head warm. As temperatures drop, a liner under your helmet, and a helmet cover, will become essential.
    • Winter cycling will bring cold temperatures, freezing wind, all the uncomfortably cold kinds of precipitation, and road spray, often salty and dirty. Windproof, waterproof, and breathable fabrics are the first choice for all outer items.

    What’s new in winter cycling gear for 2022? 

    We aim to help you keep riding as long as you want, so we have even more good gear options for winter bike rides than ever before. That said, supply chain problems and unusual demand for cycling gear continue, both due to the persistent pandemic conditions. That has made it hard to keep certain items in stock, so this year’s staff picks are updated to reflect what will perform well and is still available. 

    We’re well stocked with two fantastic new options in winter cycling tights. If these look right for you, don’t wait too long to buy – they are in high-demand.  

    We also made some exciting new additions to our long sleeve jersey line-up. They have proven very popular, so order early if these meet your needs and your size is still available. 

    We have some great options for keeping your extremities toasty, too. Gloves are important enough to get their own mini-buying guide, here.

     

    Our recommendations for the best cycling clothing and accessories for cold weather rides 

    Nik H., Operations Wizard 

    I’ll admit it –  

    PowerStretch Pro

    My go to for winter riding is our Coldweather tight, now discontinued unfortunately, but we have two excellent replacements – the Powerstretch Pro Tight and the Winter Tight. Both these winter cycling tights feature USA made Polartec Powerstretch Pro fabric for ample warmth. The Winter Tight has a wind and waterproof front, making it great for the worst conditions.

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    Colin D., Web Marketing Wonk 

    Coolweather Tight

    I find the fit of a number of Terry bike bottoms is forgiving enough to work really well for me. As the rides have been getting colder I’ve been layering a pair of lightweight windproof pants over the Terry Coolweather Tight Tall, and riding comfortably down to mid-30s. The tights alone are good between high 40s to high 50s for me. I’m adding a pair of Powerstretch Pro tights as soon as I can. The fit notes have them running a little long so they should work for me, and I expect to be riding happily in them right through the winter. 

    Winter Tight

    The Terry Winter Tight is an awesome choice in serious winter cycling tights, with thermal, breathable, wind and water blocking fabric. They get the highest recommendation for any women looking to ride in sub-freezing temps. 

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    Other essential gear for winter cycling 

    I always layer up for a comfortable torso. Good wicking base layers, a wind-blocking mid layer, and a breathable shell are all I need most of the time. I vary the weights and the shell to adjust for expected temperatures, and double up the base layers for extra warmth. It’s been a long time since I commuted by bike in the winter. If I were to start again I would add a premium breathable, storm-proof cycling jacket to the mix, and be ready for anything. 

    I find the real key to cycling comfortably in cold weather is keeping my extremities warm. Toasty feet, hands and ears make for long, happy rides. 

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    Choukas Glide Bike Beanie in White Multi

    Helmet liner: I have a merino wool blend liner that works wonderfully. I barely know I have it on except my head and ears are completely comfortable down to freezing and below. The winter hats from Choucas or Skida will also fit the bill beautifully.

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    Gore C3 GTX Helmet Cover

    Helmet cover: I also have a breathable, waterproof helmet cover for rides below 20° – highly recommended if you’re riding in the deep cold or in snowy/wet conditions.  

    Gore C5 WINDSTOPPER Insulated Overshoe

    Booties: I finally splurged on breathable, thermal, wind and water proof booties in Gore Tex fabric. Do not skimp, these are terrific. I wish I had them years ago. I like them for rides below high 40s. With warmer socks I think they will keep my feet comfortable well below freezing. 

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    Gloves: I ride a road bike mostly, so I need dexterity on the levers, but my hands get cold fast so I go for heavy ski gloves below 50°. The ones I use have a pocket for air activated hand warmers, great for below 25°. The only down side is the lack of palm padding. This year I plan to upgrade with some split finger gloves. The Terry Split Mitt is a great choice for winter cycling gloves. This option by Gore is also great, sizes are limited already.  

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    Natalie P., Product Development Whizz 

    Terry Tulip long sleeve bike jersey in Faded Orange

    My favorite winter cycling pick would have to be our new Tulip Jersey. The super cozy fabric and versatile styling make this jersey a major go-to when the temps start to dip! The back zippered pocket is also great for securing small items while you’re on the move. 

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    Cam M., Customer Service Maven 

    The Thermal Tight 

    Nothing motivates me to get in the saddle like knowing I’ll be comfortable once I get there. The brushed interior is cozy against the skin and makes starting up my ride a breeze.  

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    Another vote for The Tulip Jersey

    The cut is really flattering and it has become my go-to layering for hiking and biking! The half-zip is perfect for ventilation when the sun pops out or the wind dies down.  

    Terry Strada long sleeve bike jersey in Thistle Olive

    The Strada Jersey 

    The Strada Jersey makes me look and feel like a “real” athlete. It is snug enough without being too tight and I feel “racy” every time I throw it on!  

    Bandito Neck Warmer

    I wear a neck warmer every day from November to March, I LOVE them. I am a snow bunny but a big baby when it comes to a cold neck and ears. These neck warmers are a colorful and unique way to protect myself from the elements.  

    Motivation:  

    I make sure to carve time into my schedule everyday to hop on the saddle, either indoors or out. I treat this as 100% me time, it’s my best way to de-stress.

    Jeannette S., Terry Ambassador 

    Winter rides are shorter, but more intense. 

    I start with an excellent quality base layer top, a vest for my core (Signature is a favorite), followed by a cycling jacket with fleece lining and windproof but soft outer shell. 

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    Warm wool socks, like the Wool Cyclosox socks, that extend to just below the knee, good heavier tights (anything with fleece and wind protection.) If it’s not too chilly, I’ll wear my Bella shorts and then pull a lined tight over. If it’s really cold or windy, then I reach for Terry’s new Winter Tight!

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    I throw on a neck gaiter – a vital piece of clothing that keeps the winter chill from sneaking down your neck. Look for the Bandito neck Gaiters – still in stock at time of writing.

    Choukas Glide Bike Beanie

    From there I add a beanie or any light cap that covers my ears, (Women’s sport fleece beanie, or C3 Windstopper helmet cap are great choices) under the mandatory helmet. 

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    I use my regular cycling shoes with winter booties (C5 Windstopper Overshoe), followed by Windstopper Split Mitt. I find that my cold prone fingers prefer the added warmth of claw vs full fingered gloves. 

    Next, if you haven’t already, check wind direction. The Weather Bug app works well for me. If possible, start your ride by heading into the wind and up hill. This will warm you up, and make the ride home more enjoyable.  

    Finally, even with all the winter gear accoutrements, expect your ride to be shorter than summer rides. It takes more energy to be out there in the winter, and your body is working harder to stay warm in that short amount of time. I find my rides drop from a 2 to 4 hour average down to 45 min to an hour, and that’s plenty.  

    The last item on my list – a post ride hot cocoa with a piece of toast and PB&J.  

    Lisa W., Queen of Customer Service 

    I love to layer for chilly bike rides and pick out great pieces to keep my extremities warm!   

    A great winter glove like the Terry Split Mitt for my fingers, Wool Cyclosox for my toes, and Skida pieces for my head and neck are the perfect trifecta for a great winter ride!  

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    Check out these posts for more gear and tips for winter cycling 

    Some great winter cycling tips.

    Product picks with a good Q&A on how to dress for winter cycling.

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  • HOW TO FIT A BIKE HELMET PROPERLY.

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    A helmet can only protect your head, or that of your child, if it’s fitted correctly.

    I’m always happy to see people on the bike paths and lanes where I live wear bike helmets, but I’m often surprised how many don’t have them adjusted correctly. What’s troubling is that they have made the effort to wear a helmet and believe they are safer for it, but they don’t know that their helmet may not protect them if it isn’t correctly positioned and secure on their heads.

    Here are the tips you need on how to fit a bike helmet properly, so you can be absolutely sure your helmet – or your child’s – is able to do its job of protecting you in a crash.

    Bonus tip: a damaged bike helmet may be useless in a crash, even if it is fitted properly. Check the helmet for signs of damage every time you use it. This is especially important for your child’s bike helmet. Here’s how to know when to replace a bike helmet.

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    How to fit a bike helmet properly – quick version: the 2V1 rule

    Use the 2V1 rule, and teach it to your kids so they can get the helmet fit right on their own.

    2 – No more than two finger breadths from eyebrow to helmet. This keeps the helmet low enough on the forehead to protect the head front and back, and stay in position if a crash should happen.

    V – The straps make a V under your ears. That way you know the straps are adjusted to keep the helmet in the correct position. If there’s any floppiness in the straps, the helmet can be dislodged in a crash, and may give no protection.

    1 – No more than 1 finger can slip under the chin strap when fastened. That keeps the helmet tight enough to stay in position in a crash.

    A man and woman wearing bike helmets as they enjoy a bike ride. His is correctly positioned, she needs to learn how to adjust a bike helmet properly.
    How did we do so far? He’s got it right, she needs to read on for some adjustments for a correct helmet fit.

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    Steps to fit your bike helmet correctly

    First step – make sure the helmet is the right size

    Helmets are sized by head circumference, so you can start by measuring with a tape measure to find which range you fall into. Measure just above your brow and around the back of your head where it’s largest. On the other hand, if you can visit a local bike shop, you can just dive in and start trying them on.

    Many people find the best way to choose a helmet for the first time is to visit a store in person. That’s because helmets from different manufacturers and model lines have different contours even when sized the same. The only way to know which is going to be comfortable for your own individual head is to try a bunch of them on, much easier to do in person. 

    Helmets are made to fit a range of heads, using a supply of velcro or self-adhesive pads that come with the helmet to fine tune the fit within that range. When trying helmets on, the goal is to find one that is just a little bigger than your head so you can use some of the supplied padding to make it fit securely and comfortably.

    Most helmets these days feature a cradle in back that wraps under the back of your head and is tightened with a dial. If it’s the right size, the helmet will feel snug all over your head and will not wobble around or slip when this fit ring is tightened.

    If you feel pressure points on your head when trying a helmet on, even if they are only slightly uncomfortable, try another. That slight pressure can become intensely uncomfortable after an hour or two of cycling with the helmet properly tightened. Voice of experience speaking there…. The goal is for the pressure to be even and comfortable all over your head.

    Second step – make sure the helmet is positioned correctly

    This is a most important detail for fitting your bike helmet properly: your helmet should sit level on your head, with not much more than an inch of space above your eyebrows, and be level from side to side. A helmet that sits high on the forehead is not going to protect a vulnerable part of your noggin, and worse, can slip off your head altogether when the forces of a nasty crash come into play. 

    Third step – make sure straps are adjusted evenly

    • If your helmet can move backwards to make more than two fingers space above the eyebrows, tighten the front straps. Unbuckle, shorten the front strap by moving the slider forward. Buckle, retighten, test again.
    • If your helmet can move forward to your eyebrows, tighten the rear straps. Unbuckle, tighten the back strap by moving the slider back toward the ear. Buckle, retighten your chin strap, and test again.

    Strap arrangements can vary quite a bit amongst makes and models, but the principle is the same. Adjust so the the tension is even on all the straps – no loose or bulging straps anywhere, so you can be sure that your helmet will stay exactly where you need it to be in a crash.

    Once the helmet straps are set up correctly you shouldn’t have to bother with them again, so it’s worth the effort to get it right at the outset.

    How to get a good, safe fit for a your child’s bike helmet

    A man securing a bike helmet on a child's head. It does not appear to be sized correctly, and he could use some tips on how to fit a bike helmet properly.
    Good first step, Dad, ready for fine tuning that helmet fit.

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    All the steps above apply equally to your child’s bike helmet, but since they will not be able to manage this on their own, you will need to evaluate the fit and adjustment for them. Here’s how to fit a bike helmet properly on your child’s head, with steps to check the adjustment as you go:

    • 1. Position the helmet so it is level on their head. (Ask them to use the 2 finger rule so they learn how to check for themselves.)
    • 2. Check that the front and back straps make a V that meets below the ears with no floppy or loose straps. (Point out the V shape so they know what to look for.)
    • 2. Make sure the chin strap is tight enough by asking your child to open their mouth halfway. If they can feel the helmet pressing down on the top of their head, it is tight enough. (Have them try the 1 finger test to check for themselves.)
    • 4. The helmet should sit about an inch above your child’s eyebrows when the straps are fastened. Try pushing the helmet up from the front. If it moves backward, the straps in front of the ears are loose.
    • 5. Push up on the back of the helmet. If you can slide it forward or it slips lower on the forehead, you will need to shorten the back straps.
    • 6. Push the helmet from side to side, backwards and forwards. The helmet should be snug enough for your child’s skin to wrinkle at the temples rather than slide over.
    • 7. If your child wears a ponytail, make sure to check the helmet with the hairstyle they are likely to ride with most of the time.
    A girl and boy enjoying a bike ride. Both are wearing bike helmets, but hers is positioned too far back on her head to be effective.
    Pop quiz – fitted right or not?

    Full marks for the guy in back, but this girl’s helmet needs to be much lower on her brow for a correct fit.

    More on bike helmets: When to replace your bike helmet.

    Check out our hand picked selection of bike helmets for women here.

  • SUN PROTECTION FOR CYCLISTS.

    Model wearing Terry Soleil Long Sleeve cycling jersey in Basque
    Soleil Long Sleeve Top with Peloton TDF Capri – a great combination for cycling sun protection

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    Summer’s coming on fast, time for cyclists to think about sun protection.

    Don’t grab the lotion just yet though – there are even better options for cyclists to protect themselves from the sun…

    I shudder to think of the sunburns I collected over long days of summer cycling, well before the link between UV exposure and skin cancer became common knowledge. Yikes!

    Now, a good sunblock is an essential for every summer ride, of course. It does a great job of protecting you from the sun’s harmful rays, and lets you choose to forego coverage for arms and legs, which can feel more comfortable and freeing. Even so, it might not always be your best first line of defense against the sun.

    Here’s why sunblock might not be top of the list: the protection is not total, and decreases as the lotion wears off or is removed by sweating. It becomes less effective over time and needs to be reapplied periodically, so you have to be on top of that or risk getting burned anyway. This is a bigger problem on a longer ride, when you spend several hours in the sun. Good sunblock is not so cheap either, so if you ride a lot in a sunny place, and reapply as you should, you have an extra expense as well as some inconvenience to deal with.

    Thanks to newer developments in fabric technology, there are some great new options for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, and staying cooler and happier as you ride…

    Sun Protection Clothing For Cycling

    It’s counterintuitive – you might think adding a layer of fabric would make you hotter in a hot climate, but in fact the right kind of fabric actually prevents the sun’s harmful rays from reaching your skin and so your skin remains cooler. It feels cooler too, without the heating/burning sensation of strong sun.

    Good moisture transport is a factor also. Naturally, activities with movement cause extra perspiration on a hot day. That’s how the body cools itself, of course, maintaining a lower core temperature. The right fabrics wick that sweat allowing it to evaporate, so you get the cooling benefit while reducing skin temperature. When you get overexposed to UV rays, your skin burns, and not only feels uncomfortably hot but your skin loses the ability to cool from sweating, so you feel even hotter and can eventually risk heat exhaustion.

    Cycling clothes with built-in sun protection

    Actif short sleeve cycling jersey with sun protection fabric
    Actif Short Sleeve Jersey

    There are a couple of approaches to building sun protection into a fabric. Some fabrics use an engineered fiber that reflects or absorbs UV radiation effectively, and others use a standard fiber with added coatings that do the UV reflection or absorption.

    Our Actif Jersey uses a fabric with MYNX® protection added, while our Soleil fabric was engineered with sun protection properties in the fabric itself. Both give an outstanding UPF 50+ level of protection.

    What does UPF mean?

    UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), which indicates what fraction of the sun’s ultraviolet rays can penetrate the fabric (50 = 1/50th of the sun’s rays). The higher a garment’s UPF, the greater the amount of protection.

    The right approach to sun protection for cycling is an individual thing

    Everyone’s preferences are a little different, so some cyclists may find uncovered arms comfortable and freeing, and so opt for plenty of sunblock to protect their exposed skin. Others may prefer to avoid the exposure and cover up with long sleeves.

    Our best recommendation: choose the combination of clothing and exposure reducing methods that you find most comfortable and convenient, and that you will stick to every ride. The best sun protection methods for cycling are the ones that you will actually use consistently.
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    Recommended clothing choices for sun protection, for cycling and beyond

    The Soleil line is the most versatile and adaptable for sun protection

    Our Soleil tops have become best-sellers for good reason. It starts with the fabric, which blocks harmful UV very effectively (UPF 50+) and has a lovely, luxurious next to skin feel. It’s great to wear in high heat, and hundreds of reviews from happy customers tell the story.

    There’s also a way to Soleil for just about every activity. We offer a variety of styles, fits and feature sets, ranging from athletic and cycling specific to truly relaxed and multi-purpose.

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    Maximum cover up – long sleeve tops and tights for complete sun protection

    Our best options for the highest level of sun protection while cycling and beyond, Soleil Long Sleeves are available in a variety of fits and configurations to suit your preferred riding or activities.

    soleil long sleeve top
    Soleil Long Sleeve Top – UPF50+, minimal styling, cycling friendly pockets, athletic fit

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    soleil long sleeve flow top for great sun protection
    Soleil Flow Long Sleeve Top – UPF50+, minimal styling, cycling friendly pockets, relaxed fit

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    Soleil Free Long Sleeve Top – UPF50+, minimal styling, no pockets, athletic fit

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    Soleil Hoody – UPF50+, hood with ponytail hole, thumbholes, cycling friendly pockets, semi-fitted

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    breakaway tight
    Breakaway Tight – lighter weight fabric for comfort in a range of temperatures and full sun protection for the legs

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    Medium cover up – short sleeve tops and knickers

    Short sleeves are a great compromise, keeping shoulders covered for protection or modesty, but allowing plenty of air movement and freedom. Pair with arm sleeves for versatility. They are easy to stow in a pocket and slip on when needed, either to keep the chill off early in the day, or to cover up when the sun gets stronger. Bella Arm Sleeves are available in prints matching our Bella Short Sleeve Jerseys, or opt for the neutral Arm Sleeves pictured below to pair with any top.

    Soleil Short Sleeve Jersey
    Soleil Short Sleeve Jersey

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    Soleil short sleeve flow jersey
    Soleil Short Sleeve Flow Top

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    Bella Short Sleeve Jersey and matching Bella Arm Sleeves

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    Terry Arm Skins for easy to pack sun protection
    Seamless Arm Skins

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    Soleil Capri – Soleil fabric for comfort and protection for your thighs

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    Minimal cover up – sleeveless options for maximum wind on skin

    If this is your preference, we have lots of choices for you. Sleeveless tops, racerbacks and tanks tops all work wonderfully for indoor cycling too – there are no sun exposure problems in a spin studio, but the lack of cooling wind brings another set of challenges. (Read about our recommendations for indoor cycling clothing here.)

    soleil sleeveless women's cycling jersey
    Soleil Sleeveless Jersey with Soleil Short

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    Soleil Racer Tank

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    Sun Goddess Sleeveless Jersey
    Sun Goddess

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    Try a bolero to extend your comfort range in both chilly and sunny conditions

    Bolero Light for versatile sun and chill protection for cyclists
    Bolero Light

    A bolero works with sleeveless jerseys especially well, and closer fitting short and long sleeves too. Use one to add extra warmth in lower temperatures, or for complete sun protection on arms and shoulders when needed. It’s very easy to pack in a pocket.

    Shop more boleros here.
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    Don’t overlook sun protection for your head

    Giro Skull Cap gives sun protection for a cyclist head, worn under the helmet
    SPF30 Ultralight Skull Cap by Giro

    It’s easy to forget that the top of your head can take a UV beating, even through the ventilation holes in your helmet. These caps are a great way to get a good level of sun protection under your helmet.

     

    See more headgear options here.
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    Whichever clothing options you choose, don’t skimp on the sunblock for any remaining exposed skin. Let us know in the comments if you have any favorite sun protection strategies for cycling.

    If you ride in very hot conditions this post will give you some great tips and for staying cool and safe when temperatures really climb.
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  • TOP PICKS FOR WINTER CYCLING GEAR – Q & A.

    Women riding mountainbikes on snow covered trails, wearing Terry winter cycling gear

    Everything you wanted to know about winter cycling gear, and maybe some things you didn’t know you needed to know!

    What do I wear for cycling in winter?

    Part of the answer to this frequently asked question depends on what type of riding you will do. If you are commuting to work for as much of the winter as you can, you will probably choose some different pieces than someone who is riding competitively or training through the cold months. That said, the principles are the same.

    What you need to stay comfortable cycling in winter is actually very similar to clothing for other winter sports – particularly alpine skiing. There are quite a few similarities between the stance and movements of the two sports. Also, both involve strenuous effort that raises body temperatures, alternating with more relaxed periods where it’s easy to get chilled. Clothing for both sports requires a balance between the temperature produced by effort and cooling due to wind.

    Commuters and casual winter cyclists can do pretty well with ski gear in a lot of cases, especially if they ski and have ski clothing available already.

    More dedicated cyclists will benefit from clothing made specifically for cycling, for better fit and comfort, and practical bike and cycling friendly features.

    Looking for winter bike clothing recommendations? Check out our Staff Picks for the Best Winter Cycling Gear.

    First principles – Four Words to Guide your Winter Cycling Wardrobe:

    Layering, Wicking, Windproofing, Breathability.

    Going to extremities

    Extremities get chilled first, both because our bodies direct blood flow to our core to stay warm, and because they are out there in the cold wind, and obviously the faster we go on bikes the more wind we make for ourselves.

    Preventing the wind from getting to extremities is therefore the first line of protection for winter cycling.

    Gloves require good insulation with wind proofing, but must still allow dexterity to control the bike, which makes the search for the perfect winter cycling glove a constant quest. We have some great options, with wind-blocking fabric and split finger or mitten designs. For those of us who have colder hands to begin with, mittens or split finger designs will perform better, as fingers held together stay warmer than when individually pocketed in gloves. Mitts also have room to slip a disposable hand-warmer behind the fingers, which can feel like a life saver.

    Good shoe covers are essential when it gets cold. An extra layer on your feet with good wind and water proofing can keep you riding happily in very cold temperatures. Many cyclists opt for neoprene overshoes, made from the same stuff as wetsuits for diving. Gore-Tex and Windblocker are even better options, as they are easier to get in and out of, do the same job, and are more comfortable to wear.

    We’re all (cold) ears.

    Choose a helmet liner or headband that goes over your ears. They will thank you by not falling off as icicles, or at least by not giving you pain both freezing and thawing. A good helmet liner is thin enough to fit under your regular helmet, with straps adjusted to make room, and has good thermal and wicking properties. It’s hard to beat a merino wool blend fabric for this job. A windproof helmet cover makes a big difference too, keeping out both wind and road spray or precipitation. Keeping your head warm is half the battle for winter cycling.

    Face reality

    Tearing up in the freezing wind can be a real problem for winter cyclists, and ski gear comes to the rescue here. Many winter cyclists opt to wear ski goggles and it can make all the difference. A full face balaklava, or buff over the mouth and nose can keep the freezing wind off your face very effectively. Scarves can work too, but tend to be harder to keep in place without constant adjustments.

    Layering up

    A short or long-sleeve baselayer or two are the foundation of your winter kit. Choose base and mid layers with good thermal qualities and good moisture transport. There are some great synthetics out there that fit the bill, and lots of cyclists love merino wool as a natural and very practical choice. Avoid cotton, which does not wick well – that trapped moisture next to your skin can bring on a severe chill.

    A medium weight layer over the base can be a mid or heavier weight thermal jersey. Choose a high neckline, and zippered front to allow ventilation when you’re working hard enough to get hot.

    A windproof gilet or vest makes a great top layer for moderately cold temps. This is a vest with a cycling cut and rear pockets, to keep your core warm and block the wind. When it’s really cold a windproof jacket is an essential addition. Look for breathable, water resistant fabric.

    One thing to watch out for when layering up, especially for female cyclists – extra layers in the saddle-contact region can increase likelihood of chafing and discomfort. We recommend cold-weather weight cycling tights with a good chamois as a better option than padded shorts with a chamoi-less layer over the top. That said, layering up is the key to enjoying cycling in the colder temps, so see what works for you. A top quality chamois and the minimum of layers to keep you riding comfortably is the goal.

    Breaking down your complete Winter Cycling Kit

    Torso:

    Chilly: Baselayer, mid-weight thermal jersey, windproof gilet or vest. Easily zipped or doffed to adapt to warming up and cooling down.

    Freezing: Add a windproof, breathable shell. Keep the vest if you need an extra layer.

    Super-cold: Swap in a heavy-weight jersey, or double up to get more insulating layers.

    Legs:

    Chilly: Thermal tights with chamois.

    Cold: Heavy-weight thermal tights with a chamois, or if layers work for you, no-chamois tights over your chamois lined shorts.

    Super-cold: Add windproof, breathable cycling pants over the top.

    Head:

    Chilly: Thin thermal helmet liner.

    Cold: Add a breathable windproof helmet cover on the outside.

    Super-cold: Add face protection – a buff, balaklava, ski goggles.

    Neck:

    Chilly to super-cold: A buff or bandana can keep the wind off your neck and stop it sneaking down your jacket. A heavier neck-gaiter is a great addition when it’s colder.

    Hands:

    Chilly: Thermal gloves, windproof thermal gloves. 

    Cold: Windproof mittens, split-mitts, or a thermal glove with a windproof shell mitt over the top. 

    Super-cold: Choose a mitt with pockets for air activated or USB powered hand warmers. Consider bar mitts for ultimate cold weather protection.

    Feet:

    Chilly to cold: Longer, warmer socks, and thermal windproof overshoes/show cover over your regular cleats.

    Super-cold: Slip air activated warmers inside your overshoes, over your toes, if you can fit them (smaller ones are available – check ski gear outlets). They will still help if slipped in by your ankles. Depending on the riding you’re doing, you might prefer to switch to flat pedals and wear a winter boot that’s not too clunky for pedaling.

    Knees:

    Cold knees are more injury prone. Go for covered knees and wind-proofing in chilly temps. Some people like to look tough in shorts in winter (yes I am looking at you, Bruce), but they’re not doing themselves any favors long term.

    Winter cycling gear Q & A

    What should I wear for road cycling in winter?

    Road cyclists are still interested in speed, even though they may brave some frigid temperatures to stay in shape over the winter. That means forgoing bulky winter gear in favor of closer fitting pieces that won’t catch the wind, draining energy. Most road cyclists continue to clip in with their usual cleated shoes. The secret is to dress in layers, with emphasis on thermal qualities, moisture wicking, and breathability. Wearing warm and windproof gear on extremities is particularly important. Keeping head, hands and feet toasty helps winter cyclists keep core temperatures where they should be. As cyclists, when we get chilled it’s our extremities that feel it first.

    How cold is too cold to ride a bike?

    It isn’t too cold to ride a bike until it’s too cold for you to feel comfortable and be safe. Otherwise, as long as you’re enjoying it, keep riding. Of course, you might need some special clothing and equipment to keep cycling through frozen conditions. With the right winter cycling gear many hardy cyclists keep riding through the toughest northern winters.

    Can you ride a bike in winter?

    Yes, you certainly can! It really depends on having clothing that keeps you warm and comfortable in freezing temperatures, and having a bike that’s equipped to be safe to ride in snowy, icy conditions.

    How do cyclists stay warm in the winter?

    Cyclists keep themselves comfortable riding in freezing temperatures by layering their clothes, and making sure their extremities are protected by windproof and waterproof outerwear. Insulating, moisture wicking and breathable fabrics really help. Wind and waterproof gloves, overshoes and helmet covers are essential winter cycling accessories. In really cold conditions cyclists can also use air activated hand warmers tucked in gloves and overshoes.

    Wearing a number of thin but warm layers with a windproof shell over the top keeps the heat in very effectively. Choosing breathable fabrics and shell helps regulate moisture. Since cycling can make you sweat quite a bit even in the cold, it’s important to avoid getting clammy. High exertion keeps your core temperature up, but if you ease up your effort and there’s too much moisture in your clothes you can get chilled really quickly. Moisture wicking fabrics and breathable shells are the answer to that.

    How should I dress for winter cycling?

    To enjoy cycling in winter keep these 4 words in mind: Layering, Wicking, Wind-proofing, Breathability. Cycling specific winter clothing will give you better comfort and range of motion in cycling positions, along with the convenience of bike-friendly features like pockets in the right places, ventilation, bright, reflective materials, and a fit tailored to minimize energy draining wind-resistance.

    What is the best winter cycling jacket?

    The best jacket for winter cycling is the one that has the right combination of cold weather protection features for the riding you will do, and the best fit for your particular shape and size. There isn’t one answer that’s right for everyone, so the best place to start is with a list of must-have features. Try on any you can find in your size at a price that makes sense to you. Try the jacket with the minimum and maximum number of layers you would expect to ride with, and in cycling position. Look for wind-proofing and water resistance, breathable fabric, taped seams, zippers in the right place and ability to adjust with gloves on. Make sure the fit feels good in your cycling positions, with no binding around arms, shoulders and neck. Look for a reasonably snug fit over your layers – avoid loose fabric that can flap in the wind and drain your energy.

    Looking for product recommendations? Check out our Staff Picks for the Best Winter Cycling Gear.

  • WINTER CYCLING TIPS.

    A woman cycling along snowy mountain bike trails in winter

    Here is a roundup of winter cycling tips to help you stay warm, safe, and upright, through the deepest cold of the season.

    More and more cyclists are choosing to keep riding through the winter, thanks to better equipment, clothing, and a little know-how.

    Good snow clearance on the bike lanes of cycling-friendly cities helps a lot too, but even without that you don’t have to stop racking up the miles, or take to a car, just because it turns cold.

    In fact, winter riding can be really fun – there’s great satisfaction in defying the cold to enjoy the outdoors and stay fit.

    Some of my favorite early cycling memories are from long winter rides with my club mates, “twiddling” low fixed gears over hill and dale, picking our way gingerly over icy rural roads in frosted landscapes. The reward was always multiple pots of tea and toasted buns in our café of choice.

    On the other hand, winter brings some real hazards – some fairly obvious, some not so much – that call for a little preparation and common sense.

    The first key to enjoyable winter cycling: stay warm and dry.

    As impoverished teens, my friends and I would start our early morning winter rides with newspapers lining our bike jerseys – it had some insulation value but the real benefit was wind-proofing. As both the day and the ride warmed up we would pull the papers out and discard them. Thankfully there are now much better options available (thank you, Terry).

    • Choose your clothing with layering in mind, and go for fabrics with good moisture transport. Plan on adding or subtracting layers to suit the conditions as you go. A good baselayer, midlayer and a breathable windproof shell will take you comfortably through a wide range of conditions. It’s not a bad idea to bring an extra mid-weight layer just in case you end up waiting around somewhere in the cold (fixing a flat, for example), and a spare base layer in a water proof bag can feel like a life saver if you get soaked along the way. Experience talking there.
    • Remember you will warm up as you work, so when you are first setting off it’s okay to feel slightly under-dressed. You will soon warm up, and if you felt warm to begin with you’d quickly overheat and get sweaty.
    • Your core temperature is vital of course, but your extremities make a huge difference to your comfort, so it’s well worth kitting out with wind and waterproof gloves, and booties.
    • Keeping your head warm is essential for keeping your core warm. Avoid jacket hoods, which fill with cold air as you ride. Instead opt for a tight fitting helmet liner or beanie, and a helmet cover to keep the wind off.
    • Keep a quick source of heat on hand – air activated hand warmers slipped inside your gloves can avert a lot of cold-weather misery. Now usb-powered pocket warmers are also available: very easy to pack for instant heat with no waste.
    • Don’t forget to pack extra food, a vital way to maintain your energy level. It never hurts to pack more than you think you’ll use, just in case you are delayed somewhere in the cold. Nothing is more welcome than hot food in an insulated container during a break on a long adventure in the cold. The voice of experience again: hot rice pudding works very well.

    Cycling through snow and ice calls for different equipment

    Woman cycling on trails in winter on a gravel bike.My first job in the U.S., in Yarmouth, Maine, required a short commute: from one end of Main Street to the other. A bit too long to walk, much too short to drive. I bought a $20 bike to make the trip, and kept to it no matter what winter brought. The only real problem I had was when the temperatures dropped well below zero – whatever was lubricating the brake cables froze stiff and the brakes were completely useless. Of course, on those days I gave up and walked.

    • A well equipped winter bike will have fenders, lights and wide tires. Fenders are particularly important for keeping you and your riding companions dry – the spray from wet roads can soak you through and set you up for hypothermia on a long, chilly ride.
    • It’s a good idea to switch to flat pedals for the winter, avoiding clips or straps – BMX pedals are good for use with heavier footwear, being wide and grippy. This will leave your feet free so you can put a foot down quickly when needed.
    • Lower your tire pressure. You want to keep enough air in your tires to avoid pinch flats and an energy-sucking ride, but lower pressure will increase the surface area of the tire in contact with the road and give you more traction.
    • Many winter-loving cyclists opt for single-speed setups, to avoid the hassles of ice-bound derailleurs.
    • Studded winter bike tires are easily available these days. They aren’t a cheap option, but those who ride a lot on them swear by them – very secure on ice. The carbide ones last longer and may actually work out cheaper than regular steel in the long run.

    Winter road cycling on a bike path in Madison, Wisconsin

    Cycling in winter means riding through poor visibility, in low light, or darkness.

    • Be as visible as possible: drivers are not looking for cyclists in the off-season and visibility can be very poor during wintry weather.
    • Ride with bright lights even during daylight hours.
    • Wear light and bright colors, but avoid white, which blends in with a snowy background.
    • Opt for as many reflective accessories and clothes as you can. Many hardcore winter cyclists add their own reflective accents with 3M tape: on bags, clothes and bikes – the more the better.

    Adapt your cycling technique to stay upright and on track

    • Slow down, avoid sudden movements, take wide turns.
    • In wintry conditions it’s even more important than usual to anticipate road conditions and traffic movements ahead. There’s often less road available when snow is banked against the curb. Make sure you have a safe path to ride ahead.
    • When riding on ice it’s very easy to lock your front wheel and have it slip out from under you. Use your rear brake to slow down rather than the front, especially on slippy surfaces.
    • Get in the habit of testing your brakes before you need them, to clear ice or slush and make sure all is okay.

    Things to look out for when the temperature drops

    • Hidden ice: Leaves or snow can cover ice patches; metal plates and service covers in the road can be especially slippy; asphalt can have an invisible glaze of ice. Be especially careful if it’s been wet and the temperature drops below freezing.
    • Salt and dirt can wreak havoc with your bike and its components. That’s one good reason for using a cheaper, more rugged bike for winter, instead of your prized high specification summer mount. In any case, make sure to wash or wipe your bike down after every ride. Salt left in place can corrode metal surfaces surprisingly quickly.
    • If you can, store your bike in the cold. A warm bike taken into freezing temps can attract condensation and melt the spray or snow that lands on it, which will soon freeze. That can be a hazard for brakes and gears.
    • Dehydration – when it’s cold it’s less obvious that you’re still sweating and need to keep up fluid intake. Don’t forget to pre-hydrate and bring water with you. It can help to bring hot beverages in insulated containers: a great way to keep warm as well as hydrated.
    • Sunburn – on a sunny day in winter you can burn just as readily as in summer. Keep using sunblock and take it along for the ride.
    • Plan your routes with the worst case scenario in mind. If the weather takes a turn for the worse during your ride, it’s really helpful to be able to bail out and jump on public transport, or have a sheltered place to wait for a rescue ride. Also, plan to fight strong winds on your outward leg, and take advantage of tailwinds on the return, when you’re more tired.

    Respect the snow and ice

    It’s really fun to ride in challenging conditions, but there’s a point where the risk of slipping and falling, or being vulnerable to accidents with vehicles, outweighs other considerations. Be mindful of where that point is for you, and don’t feel you need to keep riding to prove a point.

    If it’s not fun, or if it’s not safe, it’s time to find a different way.

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    Do you have any favorite winter cycling tips? Let us know how you keep rolling through the snow…

  • HEAD FOR THE HILLS – TOP CYCLING TIPS FOR BETTER CLIMBING.

    photo of woman climbing a hill on a bicycle, smiling, with dramatic mountain scenery in the background, overlay reads: top tips for better climbing.

    Top Cycling Climbing Tips – How to climb a mountain or two on a bike, and have more fun doing it.

    This round up of our favorite cycling climbing tips will help any cyclist ride up hills better. Whether you’re just setting out as a cyclist or you’ve been riding for ages, there’s no need to be daunted by the prospect of those steep hills. These cycling techniques for climbing will help you conserve energy and enjoy the uphill ride a lot more. Please add your own favorite climbing tips in the comments.

    How to learn to love climbing hills – the steeper the better!

    Climbing is the hard part.

    Hills, let alone mountains, are surely the number one obstacle for new cyclists, since they are associated with hard work and pain and all that.

    This makes climbing hills one of the most daunting and challenging parts of riding a bicycle, especially for beginners who may try to avoid hills at all costs.

    On the other hand, conquering difficult climbs on a bike gives you a sense of achievement and success that’s hard to equal any other way. Many times, you get the additional reward of incredible vistas that you feel you have truly earned.

    In reality, the only way to get better at climbing hills on a bike is to “just do it!”

    With the correct gearing, technique, and attitude, you can learn to love the hills — to seek them out, challenge them, defy them — because hills can be a vital part of your cardiovascular training program, and that feeling of accomplishment at the top of the climb can be addictive!

    Regular training on hills will build your leg strength, your aerobic/anaerobic capacity, as well as the ability for your muscles to recover quickly from the hard effort. Early in your training, you’ll huff and puff up a hill, but after a month or two, you’ll be able to climb that same hill without getting nearly as winded.

    Woman pausing to admire a beautiful sunset view over a lush mountain landscape, at the finish of a long climb on her bicycle.
    Rich reward – pausing to admire a view she truly earned. Find out how to conquer the climbs with the following tips and techniques.

    How To Cycle Up Hills Better – First Things First

    Cycling Climbing Tip #1 – Choose the right bike for the ride

    For newcomers to cycling especially, the first and most basic tip is a prerequisite for happy cycling no matter where you ride: use a bike equipped for the terrain you want to ride on. If you are ready to head for the hills that means having a wide enough range of gears to climb hills. If your bike doesn’t have a low enough gear to switch to when you tackle a hill, you simply won’t be able to ride up it.

    Cycling Climbing Tip #2 – Get clear on which gear is which

    cycling climbing tip about choosing the right equipment - close up of the sprocket cluster of a bicycle equipped for climbing steep hillsWhen we talk about low and high gears, we’re talking about the numbers used to compare one gear with another. Avoiding the technical aspects, a low gear means it takes more turns of the pedals to go a certain distance; a high gear means fewer turns. Pedaling at the same rate, you will go slower in a lower gear. That means less effort, and so in a lower gear you can go up a steeper hill. If it’s confusing, think of lower gears as easier gears.

    Get a Jump With Your Gears

    You do not need to fear hills. The secret is technique, and the most important one is to use your gears to your best advantage. Learning to change gears smoothly, and to anticipate which gear to be in for the road ahead, are two keys to cycling comfortably on all kinds of grades.

    Cycling Climbing Tip #3 – Shift early, shift often

    Most cyclists wait too long before shifting to a lower gear when approaching a hill. Think of a hill in three phases: the approach, the climb, and the crest. Whatever your pedal revolutions, as soon as your cadence begins to drop off from effort, however slightly, immediately downshift. You may spin briefly at what feels like an unnaturally high rpm. The hill will quickly bring you back to a comfortable rpm. Apply this rule of thumb throughout the climb.

    Cycling Climbing Tip #4 – Take the pressure off the pedals

    It’s much easier to change gears when there is less pressure on the pedals. The strain in the chain when you are heaving up a slope can make it tough to move it between the rings and sprockets to get to the gear you need. That’s another good reason to change gear a little ahead of when you really need it.

    Get a Rhythm Going

    Cycling Climbing Tip #5 – Breathe deeply and get into the groove of your climb

    Coordinate your breathing with your cadence. For example, take one breath for every one and a half revolutions of your pedals. It’ll help you go faster and will help prevent hyperventilation. Consciously pull in a little extra air with each breath – the extra oxygen helps your muscles do more work.

    Be sure to relax your arms, shoulders, and back on climbs. Let your legs do the work.

    Out of the Saddle or Seated?

    two cyclists climbing a steep hill, one still seated, the other standing on the pedals
    Is is better to climb seated or out of the saddle? Check out these tips to know when it helps to sit or stand when cycling up a hill.

    Whether one should be seated or out of the saddle during climbing has caused heated debate. Often the hill decides. Rule of thumb: If the grade is steady and not too steep, try to stay in the saddle. For shorter, steep bursts, get out of the saddle. 

    Cycling Climbing Tip #6 – Stay seated to conserve energy for a long climb

    If you don’t need to climb fast, you can conserve energy by switching to a lower gear, finding a comfortable balance between your pace and effort, and staying seated.

    Cycling Climbing Tip #7 – Stand to generate more power for a short climb

    Standing on the pedals when climbing gives you the advantage of adding your body weight to the force of your legs. You can also pull against the handlebars more effectively, getting even more force onto the pedals. This lets you overcome a steeper grade faster than when climbing seated, but the trade off is it takes more energy to climb this way.

    Keep in mind that climbing out of the saddle accelerates your heart rate to a higher level (requiring more oxygen) than if you stay seated. That holds true especially for heavier riders.

    Cycling Climbing Tip #8 – How to Climb Out of the Saddle

    cycling climbing tip about how to ride uphill standing on the pedals – Woman cycling up a hill with good out of the saddle technique
    Cycling climbing tips in action: she’s gripping the brake hoods for extra leverage, standing on the pedals for an extra burst of power, and looking ahead with an easy posture.

    When you do need to climb faster or get past a steep section: with road bike handlebars, rest the V of your hands on the brake hoods and wrap your thumbs and fingers around them. If you have straight handlebars, keep your hands either on the handlebars or on the bar ends, if you have them. As you push down with each pedal, pull up on the bar with the opposite hand. Let the bike rock beneath you, but no more than a foot off-center.  

    It’s awkward to pedal at high cadence when standing, so if you’re already at high pedal revs when you get ready to stand, shift up to the next smaller cog in the back. The slightly higher (harder) gear will make you more stable, and the extra power you generate will let you use that gear to your best advantage.

    Hand Positions for Stronger Climbing

    Cycling Climbing Tip #9 – Change your grip to give you more leverage or a rest

    Road style handlebars give several options for hand position, and you may find that switching it up during a long climb helps reduce fatigue and avoid straining certain muscle groups.

    • For long steady climbs, wrapping thumb and forefingers around the brake hoods gives you more leverage to pull against as you pedal, and can stretch the muscles in your upper back a little.
    • Gripping the bars along the straight sections beside the stem, with elbows bent, can help you apply more force when the grade is steeper but you’re still in the saddle.
    • The same hand position with elbows straight can relieve your lower back on less steep sections.

    How to Get Better at Hill Climbing

    Cycling Climbing Tip #10 – Try hill repeat workouts to improve climbing power

    On one weekday ride each week, try doing a hill workout to improve your hill climbing ability and leg strength.

    A hill repeat workout is shorter than a normal ride, but it’s very intense. Find a challenging hill that you can ride up in about 5 minutes. After warming up on the bike for about 10 minutes, ride up the hill at a moderate pace, then (carefully) turn around and ride back down. Pedal easy on flat ground for about 5 minutes or so, then ride up the hill again. Start off riding up the hill 2 times. You should be extremely tired when you’re done.

    The next week, add one more trip up the hill to the workout, and so on each week until you can ride up the hill 5 times. Once you get to that point, it’s time to find a more challenging hill. Be sure to cool down by spending about 10 minutes riding easy on the bike after your hill workout.

    cycling climbing tip about how to ride up long hills - Woman climbing a mountain road on a race route in France, ahead of other cyclists.
    Easy does it – settled in for a long climb on the Tour de France route, with relaxed position on the bends, in a low gear.

    But I Can’t Make It to the Top

    Cycling Climbing Tip #11 – Break that hill into pieces

    Most beginning cyclists will encounter hills that are too difficult to ride all the way up. Don’t make those hills an all-or-nothing proposition. Instead, break up the hill into tiny increments. The first time you ride up “killer hill,” take note of where you need to stop. Next time you ride that hill, make it a goal to go a little bit farther up the hill, even if it’s just another 10 feet up. Push yourself to keep riding to the next driveway, street sign, or whatever.

    Do this each time you ride the hill, and before you know it, you’ll accomplish what you first thought was impossible. You’ll ride the whole way up!

     

    Ready to get outfitted for comfortable hill climbing? Find all the best in women’s cycling gear here, and find your ideal bike saddle here.