How to Buy a Bicycling Jersey as a Gift

Good bicycling clothes can make all the difference for a ride. Cycling jerseys can cut down on wind resistance and serve as good insulating layers in the cold.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bike Vest
• Biking Arm Warmers
• Biking Jacket
• Bike Jerseys
• Biking Base Layer
• Long-sleeved Bike Jerseys

1. Determine what kind of weather conditions your cyclist will be riding in. This is one of the most crucial points to consider when picking out a jersey.

2. Look at short-sleeved jerseys for those riding in moderate to warm climates. Many short-sleeved jerseys have a half zipper at the neckline that can be a good source of ventilation for hotter rides. Many nice short-sleeved jerseys can be found for $25 and up.

3. Consider the type of fabric you're purchasing for a long-sleeved jersey. Make sure the fabric "wicks" (pulls moisture away from the skin). Even though the jersey will be worn in cooler weather, sweat is always an issue when cycling, and a wicking fabric will keep the cyclist warm and cut down on wetness. Many long-sleeved jerseys start at $35 and up.

4. Look into adding a base layer to wear beneath the jersey or jacket for cyclists in cooler riding conditions. This layer, which can be made out of many different fabrics, can also serve as an insulating and wicking layer, over which a layer more geared at rain protection or wind breaking can be added. Many base layers start at $20.

5. Think about the possibility of a vest for a cold-weather biker. They're a great way to layer and keep your core warm while cycling, without all the bulk of sleeves. Vests start at about $40.

6. Have fun with all the styles and colors of jerseys available, keeping in mind the tastes of your recipient. Polka-dotted jerseys for the conservative cyclist may not be a good match. Reflective stripes and bright, light colors will make a cyclist more visible on the road.

7. Think about the size you should buy; it's close to T-shirt size, but keep in mind that jerseys should be form-fitting for less wind pull.

Tips & Warnings

• Many jerseys have pockets in the back for spare tubes and water bottles for cyclists who want to go on a longer ride without packing a bunch of gear or bulky bags.
• Cycling specialty shops have good selections for different styles of jerseys. But remember, once you know what you're looking for, many sportswear catalogs and warehouses may have the same merchandise for a lower price.
• You can buy arm warmers too, which are knit sleeves that you can put on with a short-sleeved jersey. This can allow the short-sleeved jersey to easily convert for cooler weather.

Who Can Help:

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on 11/22/2005 Always check the manufacturer's tag to make sure that the jersey was tailored for a woman. Women cyclists usually have narrower shoulders and wider hips than men. This is why standard jerseys and even unisex jerseys don't fit as well on women. The baggy top half and the tight bottom half does not lend itself to a fun ride.