Just when you thought you were fully stocked…we snuck one more week’s worth of can’t-say-no deals on the prints du jour, cycling bottoms at under $100, and lightweight adventure dresses to perk up your travel wardrobe. It’s the final day, and a triumph in every way. SHOP IT ALL >
Mark your calendars—our Summer tradition here at Terry is just around the corner!
If you’re around the great Green Mountain state, swing by the Terry warehouse for our only in-person sales extravaganza, the Terry Tent Sale. Come join us for huge savings on women’s cycling apparel and accessories, saddles for men and women, and other cool stuff from major outdoor brands. These are our best prices of the year (up to 80% off) and an amazing opportunity to connect with the Terry community.
WHEN: Wednesday, July 26th from 10am – 6pm and Thursday, July 27th from 9am – 5pm
WHERE: Terry Warehouse, 7 Ambrose Place, Burlington VT 05401
In addition to hosting two days of spectacular savings, we will also be raffling off a $500 Terry gift certificate to support our community after a series of devastating floods. Raffle entries will be available starting at $2, with 100% of proceeds donated to Vermont flood relief funds. If you cannot make it to the event and would like to help out, please consider making a donation to our friends at Onion River Outdoors: gofundme.com/onion-river-outdoors-flood-relief
With a penchant for history-rich cycling adventures and a desire to visit another part of the wonderful Empire State Trail system, my husband and I opted to ride the Erie Canal Trail route in May, avoiding the busy season. We left our vehicle in Albany, NY, and made an easy Amtrak transfer to Buffalo with bikes and camping gear in tow for our big trip.
Spring was in full bloom on the Erie Canal Trail in every sense: wild honeysuckle, knee-high buttercups, pink and white trillium trailside, acres as far as the eye could see of apple trees in white splendor, even heady lilacs from properties edging the path. We encountered young families of Canadian geese and rode single file to keep the ganders with chirping, fuzzy young, from any dangers while protective adults honked at us alarmingly with open mouths. I initially feared for my ankles but eventually laughed—the geese provided welcomed entertainment on our route.
Over the next seven days, we pedaled on predominantly smooth, stone dust surfaces, alternating with paved sections, and followed former rail lines and towpaths, and a handful of diversions on roads. We had allotted more days to finish but averaged 50-mile days to avoid a forecasted, unchanging, rainy day. At the end of it, we were lucky to have not encountered any rain at all. Impressively, there is no shortage of Erie Canal and/or Empire State Trail signage to guide you on the 350-mile route—it would be hard to get lost.
As we learned from historical signs, the Erie Canal’s initial purpose was to move grain from central New York to the Port of New York. An engineering marvel when it was first constructed, some called this great canal the Eighth Wonder of the World. The fascinating part—at least for history buffs like me—the canal was so successful that the waterway had to be enlarged or rebuilt wider with some sections abandoned, as boat traffic increased.
From the bike seat, we pedaled along three diverse segments: from stone dust track along the narrow section with herons and turtles in the algae-covered swamps, to dry or wet 60-foot wider segments, to the 120-foot wide, present-day navigable canal with locks, picnic tables, camping spots, and water spigots to delight in, as well as tie-ups for boaters.
With temperatures ranging from 35-75F, versatile clothing was key to keeping warm with limited pannier space. My two favorite Terry items—I wore them daily—were the Hybrid Jacket and Thermal Full Zip Long Sleeve Jersey. Both were lightweight to carry, rolled up small, could easily be packed, and provided a great warmth-to-weight ratio.
This was my first long-distance journey in ten years. My new touring bike handled the miles with aplomb but could use a different saddle. Luckily, I know just where to find one! Overall I learned some history and got to tour again with my favorite partner. I’m excited for a similar journey in July. This time I aim to ride fewer miles per day and eat more ice cream!
For over three decades women of all ages and riding disciplines have been able to turn to Terry for best-in-class cycling apparel, saddles, and accessories that prioritize performance, comfort, and personal style. It has always been our philosophy that cycling is for everyone and this summer, we decided it’s high time we truly offer riding gear for all and introduced some particularly compelling Men’s apparel to our lineup. Ladies will always come first in our little corner of the cycling world but this season, we’d like to extend an invite to the guys to discover the Terry difference. Here’s a sampling of what’s in store for men…
All the calls (some shouted from mountain tops) for a male companion to our revolutionary Soleil bike tops led to the creation of our SolMate collection. Complementary in print, fully UPF 50+ sun protective and crafted to fit real bodies, we originally designed these duos for couples who love to do everything together, including riding. However, there is no reason the Men’s Soleil Long Sleeve can’t be worn solo or on active pursuits that don’t just involve cycling. You see, the magic comes from the ultralight and smooth micropoly/spandex fabric that is comfortably wearable in every climate and every season. It wicks moisture, feels cool against the skin, has anti-odor properties, and built-in sun protection that won’t wash away or fade over time. Outfitted with rear pockets and styled to move without restriction, the Men’s Soleil is technically geared for all-day activity whether you’re cycling or casting. We’ve seen it used for hiking, biking, fishing, pickleball, in the gym and on the golf course—the opportunities are endless.
Don’t just take our word for it, let these 5-star reviews speak for themselves.
Great Men’s top
My husband has been jealous of my Soleil jerseys for as long as I’ve worn them. We were excited to see a men’s version. I bought it for him and he loves it. His favorite thing is that it’s not scratchy like the other men’s tops he has and he likes that the long sleeves keep the sun off his skin. The fit is true. He’s thinking about getting another.
– Nadine S.
Can’t get this top off my husband!
I bought this top and the women’s top together. It is really comfortable as well as attractive. My husband wears it all the time. He likes the feel of it and the fit is perfect for him.
– Constance L.
When it came to offering the guys something to pair up with our new Men’s Soleil, we turned to one of the leaders in cycling bottoms for men: Zoic. Founders, Eric and Paul, created their first mountain bike short in 1994 to bring tech-blended comfort to the growing population of fat tire aficionados. This heritage of innovation and exploration is forever infused in their versatile designs for everyone from downhill deviants to entry-level commuters, to runners and surfers alike. We couldn’t think of a better team to partner up with and are thrilled to be carrying their technically packed, yet super wearable bike bottoms for both men and women.
Available in 11 inch & 9 inch inseams. Key features: Zoic’s lightest weight, quick-drying, 4-way stretch fabric for unrestricted movement, plenty of pockets, a fusion gusset that prevents sag and saddle snag, and an elastic waistband with nylon belt for adjustability. Unpadded for ultimate versatility.
Key features: Duraflex fabric stretches when you move and is superiorly abrasion resistant, integrated Air Flow mesh ventilation panels below the back waistband and down the leg, angled Active Access cargo pockets provide no-spill access to essentials, and a snap and zip fly closure and elastic back waistband with ExactFit hook & loop side-adjuster tabs to dial in fit. 12 inch inseam. Shop the unpadded, best-selling, trail-tested, and 5-star rated Ether Bike Short.
Pair the Men’s Premium Liner with the Guide or Ether Short and you’re ready to ride. Key features: super soft Italian-made chamois with multi-level ergonomic foam and advanced moisture wicking properties, a revolutionary Quick Relief Fly for nature breaks, a handy quick draw pocket, and a 4-way stretch, recycled polyester/spandex fabrication with excellent breathability.
Shop all Men’s Apparel.
This isn’t our first rodeo or even our second when it comes to designing and supplying the most comfortable bike saddles on the market for women and men. It’s our belief that being on the right saddle lays the foundation for cycling success. The wrong fit will make every mile feel like a chore—and often a painful one at that. For this reason, we offer myriad options for every style of riding from road cycling to commuting to mountain biking and endurance efforts. Here’s a list of just some of our Men’s saddles that have led to hundreds of thousands of success stories.
Originally introduced in 1999, the Italian-made Fly set the standard for men’s saddle comfort. It’s wowed fans across the world including pro riders, RAAM riders and randonneurs. This particular version bumps up comfort levels with a thin layer of gel across the saddle top. The Fly Ti Gel is intended for endurance/distance riders and triathletes who put more pressure against the front of the saddle. Also available in gel-free, synthetic-covered (and vegan-friendly) versions, and a shock-absorbing option that is particularly popular with mountain bikers.
The men’s Liberator Elite is designed for the endurance and touring rider who needs all-day comfort, demands premium features and wants the optimal balance of relief and saddle weight. This saddle has a wider cutaway than the other Liberators in our line, providing additional relief when pursuing high mileage and a thin gel layer along the top of the saddle to provide an increased level of comfort. Shop the full Liberator Y family of saddles.
Our Cite Italia Gel saddle combines the utmost in comfort with the latest in Italian design and manufacturing. Using the best in cover, gel and rail materials, they are a little lighter and sleeker than their Taiwanese counterparts. The Cite Y series of saddles are ideal for recreational riders who spend a half day on the bike or less, ride nearly upright with lots of weight against the saddle, prefer the closest thing to a pillow or have significant lower back pain.
Finding the right saddle can be tricky. If you’re unsure about which saddle is best for your riding needs, you can turn to our Saddle Selector for help. You can easily find the perfect riding mate by answering a few easy questions—try it now to receive an expert recommendation based on your riding style. You can also check out this blog which covers the how tos of saddle selection and contains comprehensive advice from our master saddle matchmakers.
Need further assistance on saddles, apparel, and all things cycling gear? Our all-star Customer Service Team is happy to help and only ever a call or email away.
Is your dad a cyclist? Or is he your strongest supporter? Or maybe you’re the rad dad that rides? However you spin it, we think the dads of cycling are pretty dang cool. This Father’s Day we’re delighted to celebrate some of the dads in the Terry sphere that helped shape us into the cyclists we are today. Below you’ll find stories from dads who work at Terry, how Terry team members have been inspired or supported by their dads, and some fond fatherly memories from staff and ambassadors.
Cheers to the dads of cycling! Tell us about your dad or father figure in the comments.
The joy of being a dad cannot be undersold. There are a variety of outdoor activities that we can enjoy together in Vermont that has bonded my family closely. As the kids grow and our family becomes bigger, the addition of spouses and grandchildren makes the outdoor adventures even more exciting and fun. Being a father to such a great group of young adults has filled my life with immense love and immeasurable happiness.
My father Ken has always been supportive of all my and my brother’s outdoor interests, from rock climbing to hiking to biking. When my brother was younger he used to BMX bike and my father built him a quarter pipe to practice his tricks. He also built me an outdoor climbing wall on the side of our family’s barn. He has always been a handy man to have around! Now that he is in his 70’s (and finally retired!), he has decided that he wants to keep the adventures going by investing in Ebikes for himself and his loving wife of 40+ years. Love you!
My dad just retired and is planning to spend the summer cycling, something he used to do a lot but hasn’t done in 10 years. He brought his two bikes from 1987 to a bike shop to get tuned up and the techs joked about them being antiques.
I’ll try to keep it short but there’s a lot to be said about the man, the myth, the legend—my dad. Michael (or Miguel in some circles but never Mike) gifted me with his competitive spirit, wry sense of humor, and love of live music. My dad is the life of the party and lives every day to its fullest potential. He’s the definition of the phrase ‘work hard, play hard’. He, his dad, and my maternal grandfather have all taught me in their own way how to ditch the training wheels and take life by the handlebars. Despite growing up on a hill that neared a 90-degree angle, he encouraged me to ride bikes and to let a healthy dose of fear be my fuel. My dad has inspired my brothers and me to get our hands dirty, seek adventure at every turn, and never shy away from a challenge. In fact, the last time we were together he challenged me to a swimming contest and I still can’t decide if I am proud to say that at 30 years my senior, he completely lapped me in the pool. Cheers to you, you bon vivant and pain in my butt!
My dad didn’t ride bikes but loved the freedom of riding horses, that love and desire for freedom is in me, too. He has inspired me to saddle up in one way or another!
My dad told me to go to the bike shop & pick out a 10-speed for my 14th birthday. I was thrilled that they had exactly what I wanted. I rode that bike all over town. Little did I know that on my and my husband’s very first Santana tandem tour along the Danube River in 2012, we would be seated at dinner with cycling icons Richard & Debra Schwinn! I couldn’t stop talking about my orange Schwinn.
….My dad always encouraged me to be adventurous and his passing just shy of his 59th birthday in 1988 motivated me to live a fitness lifestyle and focus on fun. He’d be shocked to know just how adventurous I’ve become. Just a side note—his dad rode a bicycle into his 90’s (it’s a Dutch thing).
We are blessed to have a few dedicated males working here at Terry who not only fully support women’s cycling, but also the kids they are raising or have raised. And while rearing these fine young citizens, they’ve managed to instill the joy of two wheels along the way…
Phillip Diehl
Director of Ecommerce, or Dr. Phil as we like to call him.
David Howard
Director of Sales and Sails.
Luke Tremble
Fulfillment Supervisor and BBQ MVP.
Colin Dodgson
Web Marketing Specialist and Lamb Whisperer.
Nik Holm
Director of Operations and two adorable little ones.
We salute you guys and wish everyone a Happy Father’s Day!
Contributed by Author & Terry Ambassador, Haven Lindsey.
If you are familiar with The Velveteen Rabbit, the book written more than 100 years ago by Margery Williams Bianco, you may relate to the notion of when inanimate objects become Real. In the story the Skin Horse explains to the Velveteen Rabbit what it’s like to become Real…
You become. It takes a long time. That’s why it doesn’t happen often to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in your joints and very shabby. But these things don’t matter at all, because once you are Real you can’t be ugly, except to people who don’t understand.
Margery Williams Bianco. The Velveteen Rabbit.
My bike is Real. I just learned that recently when I took it into my local bike shop for a much-needed tuneup. Having lived and ridden at or near sea level for all of my life, that is no longer the case. I now live in the high desert climate of northern New Mexico which means it is dry and arid. At 8,000 feet, the air is thin, which makes it harder to breathe. We receive more sun-filled days than Florida and being that much closer to the sun means it can feel hot as blazes in the summer. All of those factors combine to make cycling challenging. Tired of struggling on climbs on my well-worn and much-loved bike, I took it into the shop thinking I needed a new chain. “Surely, that will help,” I thought. I was partially right.
I had called the shop in advance to make sure they could take it right away—otherwise, I would continue to clunk along on it until they could turn it around quickly. I had planned to drop it off prior to going on a two-day trip and figured I could pick it up on my way back home. The shop owners thought the same thing. I confidently rolled the bike in and walked up to the counter where the owners and employees were helping customers and servicing bikes. Initially, we talked about the tune-up and the fact that I wanted new grip tape for the summer riding season. They asked all the right questions. I responded with all the right answers. I also described my struggle getting over the “hills” as they are called here, or as the rest of the world calls them, mountains.
The owner put my bike on the rack to inspect the chain and as he studied it, he looked up at me with a slight, almost sly grin on his face, “This bike has been through a lot.” I smiled and replied, “And I’ve been right there with it.”
Within minutes, all three employees were standing around my bike with what I think, was a new-found respect. And then that’s when it happened. As they turned the wheels and tested the gears of the bike that had been ridden, worn, and loved, I realized that somewhere along the way, my bike had become Real. My best friend. My most trusted companion.
As I watched the gurus talk, I became aware of what I was experiencing about my bike. I felt a sense of pride for the thousands of miles we had ridden in Maine, Vermont, North Carolina, and Texas. I remembered the unfortunate crashes. One in particular when I had gone head over heels over a guard rail and the first thing I asked when I sat up covered in dust and weeds with a bloody knee, was “Is my bike okay?”. I thought about the group rides I had participated in—the times I had been dropped by the peloton and the times I was the one who broke away. I thought of the hours spent with it on the trainer, listening to loud music on some rides and pedaling in silence on others.
It was then that the bike shop owner, almost like a surgeon who had consulted with his medical team, walked over and said, “I think we can help you.” By the time I walked out, I had agreed to the bike version of open-heart surgery.
My assertion about the chain had been correct—I needed a new one. But both the bike and I needed more than that to successfully tackle the “hills.” A complete overhaul was agreed upon, including a new cassette with one additional gear—a lower one that I could use for uphill riding.
The bike version of open-heart surgery can take some time. New parts had to be ordered and during the extended time my bike was in the shop, the owners checked in with me to assure me the parts were being shipped and they would call me the moment it was ready. Each time they called I had a feeling that they somehow recognized that this bike, my bike, was Real.
Real isn’t how you are made,” said the Skin Horse. “It’s a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real.”
The thing about being Real is, as the stuffed animals in the children’s story discovered, it cannot be manufactured. Real is real. Real is authentic. And cycling is no different. If you’ve ridden your bike on those days when the Chamber of Commerce would never consider photographing because the weather is so snotty, or on those days when it feels like there is a headwind in every direction, or on those days when you don’t feel like riding but you don’t feel like not riding, you understand how a bike can become Real.
I’ve ridden in beautiful weather when the bright, white clouds seem to be playing music above my head. On days like that, it feels like my bike and I are dancing—we’re playing and doing what we were meant to do. Those vacation-like rides are every bit as authentic as the rides where we suffer. I once rode my bike on what appeared to be brand new pavement, its shiny, smooth surface beckoning me to accelerate—until I realized that the asphalt, under the hot North Carolina sun, had not yet solidified. It was gooey and gummy. My bike and I may as well have been insects stuck to sticky tape. I also once bonked so bad riding in Texas that my hamstrings cramped and I had to be driven home—hiding my bike in the shrubs until I could go back and pick it up. I’ve ridden with a broken foot and a broken heart—both healed with time and miles (the heart took longer to heal).
All of these experiences resulted in my bike becoming Real. But the bike wasn’t the only thing that transitioned. I became Real too. The highs and the lows on a bike, just like the highs and lows in life, are the experiences that are there to teach us if we are willing to listen. Being Real stays with you. If you’re Real on your bike, you’re Real everywhere else. When you’re Real you attract Real. Relationships with spouses, partners, friends, colleagues, and even strangers, exist on a deeper level. Real isn’t on the surface, it’s a few layers down.
My bike survived its open-heart surgery and together, we are once again tearing up the roads of northern New Mexico, the new cassette and lower gear are being put to good use. My bike doesn’t have a lot of miles left on it and is destined to someday become my ‘trainer-only’ ride, bike retirement, I suppose. In time there will be another bike that will likely become Real too. After all, when you are Real the things around tend to do the same.
To read more of Haven Lindsey’s work, please visit her website: 4havensake.com
Take a glimpse at what Bike Month looks like at Terry. We wouldn’t lay claim that we are 100% dedicated to mobilizing women and making cycling a more approachable and comfortable experience if we didn’t test, wear, and love our products ourselves. See what the femme fatales at Terry love from our collection—featuring high performance bottoms, versatile multisport essentials, and a stunning array of tops in alluring prints and vibrant hues—all designed to get you moving and grooving confidently.
What are you riding in these days?
We’re straddling seasonal weather lately in Vermont. When it’s brisk, I rock the Peloton Capri and versatile Tulip Jersey, topped with the Hybrid Jacket. On warmer days, I’m deep into the summer vibe with my go-to Vista Top for its flattering, curved hemline and colorful prints. I feel like the Vista Top was made specifically for me—someone who likes stylish, wicking tops without typical jersey pockets. My favorite 2023 short is the new, more supportive, Breakaway Hi-Rise Short. And for protection from Lake Champlain’s chilly breeze, the Hybrid Jacket is always with me, even in higher temps.
In addition to being a passionate cyclist, you’re also an accomplished sewist. Are you working on any sewing projects currently?
I’m currently repurposing a large purple fanny pack into a front rack bag. The plan is to attach the bag using a sturdy hook and loop material. As with most of my creative projects, the plan is somewhat fluid, evolving over time—the finished product must be functional and unique.
If you could be any animal, what would you be?
I’d love to be a Canadian goose, always traveling, deciding when and where to stop for the evening.
What’s your favorite piece from the Terry line?
It’s not a one-off, but a whole collection! My all-time favorite is the Soleil Collection. I especially love the Long Sleeve Tops (relaxed fit, athletic fit, and pocket-free, they are all a perfect match for me), Hoody, and Tanks. I use them for all occasions—when I am riding or hiking they offer sun protection and moisture wicking. When it’s time to hit town the prints are very stylish and the tops stay fresh thanks to the antimicrobial fabric.
How is living life full-time in an RV? Where in the U.S. are you right now?
We are currently making our way back across the country from New Mexico to upstate New York for our daughter’s college graduation. We are staying at a COE (Corp of Engineers Campground) called Dog Creek in Dog Run, KY. It’s Nestled along the banks of the Nolin River. It’s a beautiful spot…it’s been a bit stormy but we were lucky enough to have sunshine yesterday and it will continue today. For those of you who are not familiar with COE Campgrounds there are over 2,400 COE campgrounds in the U.S. and they typically are found along the border of lakes and reservoirs. This is our 6th COE since we hit the road in September 2022 and they all have been peaceful and beautiful.
What is your favorite place you’ve been since taking to the road?
We have so many favorite spots, it’s too hard to list them all. I would say our favorite National Parks are Big Bend in Texas and White Sands in New Mexico. Our favorite cities to date are: Sante Fe, NM., Silver City, NM., and Austin, TX.
Shanin is all about Terry, all the time. See how she styles Terry apparel to suit every adventure and every day of the year in her blog: 365 Days In Terry
What are you wearing from Terry?
Lucky me…I most recently got to wear samples of Fall 23 tops on my recent ride through Yellowstone. For 2 weeks prior to opening the roads to cars, it’s bikes only so the perfect backdrop and conditions for Spring testing & training.
What: Soleil Long Sleeve Jerseys & Winter Tight/petite – coming Fall 2023
Styled with: Paul Smith limited edition helmet & Rapha sunglasses
Favorite NEW print coming in September: Northern Lights
As one of Terry’s fearless leaders, what is the greatest risk you’ve taken?
Riding Kings Ridge and Pacific Coast Highway in Northern California with sample road shoes that didn’t have cleats on the bottom.
What’s your most frequently worn piece from the Terry line?
From sunrise to sunset, the Metro BTK runs the gamut almost 7 days a week as hemlines start to creep up. From riding the Lehigh Valley Trail, to working in the garden, to running errands around town, there’s no slowing down (or need for a wardrobe change!) with the just below-the-knee length Metro around. Love them for their versatility to easily transition from activity to activity; the lightweight fabric keeps its cool and resists wrinkles, and the handy thigh pocket keeps my phone in place while on the go and back again.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Oof, that’s a tough one! I’ll roll with Mind Reading.
Cam R., MarComm & Social Media Guru
What are you riding in this Summer?
The Sun Goddess Jersey always tops my list of favorites for warm-weather riding! The slightly shorter cut perfectly suits my more petite frame and I am crazy about the new Van Go print that puts my favorite colors front and center. Add the venting front zipper and breathable, racer back and I am all set for summer adventuring. I’ll be pairing the Sun Goddess with my Chill Shorts—I ride in all three lengths and decide which to go with depending on my mood and the weather. I can never decide what I love most about them, the sleek look, promises-to-never-pinch waistband, the laser cut hem that never rides up, the higher compression fit, or my personal Goldilocks of chamois, the Flex Air Lite.
What song are you playing on repeat?
I’d be remiss if I didn’t admit there are a few show tunes on my most listened to playlist, BUT right now Hanging On The Telephone by Blondie has gotten me up some pretty steep hills.
What are you wearing from Terry this summer?
My Terry go-to pieces are the same year round, either a Soleil Flow or a Tech Tee Flow. The only thing that changes is the sleeve length with the seasons—long sleeves in the cooler months and short sleeves in Summer. I love the fabric weight and how it feels on my skin; they are fast drying and not clingy at all. I also love the fact that I get a ton of compliments on the colors and patterns! In the colder months, I typically use the Tech Tees as a base layer. And as I’ve gotten older, I pay more attention to protecting my skin from the sun and love the fact that the Soleils and Tech Tees offer UV protection. I’m heading to Virginia Beach for Memorial Day and these will be the only tops I bring, especially since they pack beautifully and never wrinkle in my suitcase! I’m also bringing my new Cyclo Dress and am hopeful that the weather will be warm enough to try it out.
What is your favorite way to spend a day off?
My favorite way to spend a day off is to hop on my bike with a book and a light lunch in my backpack cooler and ride the bike path over to Thayer Beach in Colchester, VT. I try to find a spot close to the tree line so I have some shade where I can hunker down for a few hours and rejuvenate. I love hearing all the kids playing and usually run into a friend or someone I haven’t seen in a bit. It’s a popular spot.
What is something that can instantly make your day better?
If I’m having a bad day, the best way to put it behind me is to get my bike and push myself to the limit! I ALWAYS feel better after exercising and knowing I’m doing something good for my body. It takes my mind off whatever happened that day and helps to move my focus on the future and what’s to come next.
What is your favorite piece this season?
While it is always easy to rave about my much-loved Soleil tops, it is important to also share my love of the Hi Rise Holster Capri bike bottoms. The comfortable chamois, non-grip hem and high rise waist together make for great riding…especially when it’s still cool in the mornings!
What is your earliest memory of riding a bike?
While I have some adorable photos of me with my childhood bikes, my first real memories happened when I was 39 and decided to ride a century event and raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I bought a bike (after realizing my yard sale bike was not an option) and on my first training ride with the team, it snowed! I had very cold ankles and a very sore butt.
For my second ride, I sported wool socks and a beautiful new Terry Butterfly Ti Saddle..a few years later I was the head coach of the program.
Here I am in June of 1999 with my new bike rolling into my new world:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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 & 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 & 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: 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.
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.
“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
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.
Shop all bike liners here.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Shop all bras & base layers here.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Tailwinds and happy travels! May all your bike to work clothing serve you well for bike month and beyond.
The options for riding comfortably in baggy-style shorts have never been greater. This year that extends to length, pattern, size and color from not only Terry but Zoic, Club Ride, Krimson Klover and Maloja. Some of them come with liners and others are sold without so you can pair them up with an existing favorite or a new performance-level mega liner. All of them provide the option for going from bike to whatever else your life requires. Here’s a sampling of what’s new and happening in the baggy world for women.
