Peak Performance: Cycling Gear

In cycling, almost more so than in any other sport, wind resistance is key. No matter how strong a cyclist, no matter how toned his or her muscles, no matter how intense his or her endurance, stamina and athletic prowess, if the wind is allowed to play a part, he or she will never win.

When it comes to choosing cycling gear, cyclists always look for articles that will provide the most wind resistance, the items streamlined and designed to not only not be hampered by wind, but literally funnel it away from the body of the cyclist. Almost every piece of cycling gear is somehow designed with wind in mind.

Buying with Victory in Mind

Amateur cyclists are often tempted to ride with basic athletic clothing. They do not see the point of buying more expensive cycling gear, and they definitely do not see the need for added, non-essential pieces of equipment. They ride around the city in baggy shorts, sneakers, everyday sunglasses and helmet better designed for training wheels than speed. However, for any cyclist who dreams of victories, for those cyclists who look at every ride as a conditioning ride and do not understand the concept of a leisurely piece, each piece of their ensemble is carefully researched and carefully selected.

Cycling shorts and shirts are two of the first pieces of cycling gear often purchased. Both should fit close to the body; this decreases wind resistance, but it also prevents muscle cramping and fatigue. Cycling clothing is usually comprised from Lycra and spandex; both materials provide the closest fit but also help with whisking sweat away, keeping the cyclist both dry and cool. These pieces of clothing are also designed with attachments in mind; in cold weather, leg warmers and arm warmers can easily be attached without decreasing performance or increasing discomfort.

Cycling shoes are also streamlined, and are designed with speed in mind. These pieces of cycling gear embody both safety and performance; they attach to the pedals in a manner that both increases the power of the cyclist and increases his or her ability to adapt to different situations. Like other pieces of cycling gear, they are built with the best materials to keep the cyclist cool and battle sweat and overheating.

Helmets and sunglasses, two of the most important pieces of cycling gear designed for safety, are also built for speed. Aerodynamic and streamlined, helmets protect the head but do not add weight to the cyclist or wind resistance. Even sunglasses, which protect the eyes from the sun, wind and debris, are designed to provide the largest area of vision without protruding from the face in a manner that would hinder speed.