Choose Bicycle Clothing Carefully
Posted on May 11, 2008
Filed Under Sports |
Those who engage in exercise or competition, whether running or bicycling, usually find and stay with a comfortable and efficient design.
Exercise apparel has become such a large industry in the last few decades that manufacturers, retailers and customers have found it necessary to be very specific about the type of clothing offered and purchased. As the business has grown and become very specialized, shoppers have found exercise apparel in dozens of colors and designs, some suited for one very specific type of activity.
Among the many types of apparel available are running shoes, shorts and shirts, as well as the same items for riding (bicycle clothing, shoes, helmets). Running, focuses on the use of the legs, so the running shorts or running suit/pants must fit well, be comfortable and not cause undue stress on skin, joints etc.
Looking at running apparel and accessories from top to bottom, both the amateur and the professional must consider a somewhat loose, comfortable shirt; shorts that fit comfortably around the waist but are rather loose around the upper legs; and, most importantly, good running shoes. Clothing must be light and should be made of material that dries easily, both after exercise and in the laundry cycle. Numerous designers and manufacturers in this realm have conducted extensive research to find the best materials and designs for buyers. All of this also applies to bicycle clothing, though biking shorts and shirts tend to fit more tightly for aerodynamics.
Running Shoes, Bicycle Shoes
Many buyers begin at the bottom when choosing running apparel and accessories. Shoes must be lightweight and durable, and have the ability to withstand the impact of running. If the runner expects to protect the feet from injury and stress getting the most efficient running session, he or she must purchase shock-absorbent shoe that fits the individual foot and the level of running activity. The shoe has to offer a snug fit, along with overall comfort.
In both areas of exercise and competition, shoes, shorts, shirts, hats and helmets etc. have been designed and manufactured for specific purposes. Companies large and small spend a great deal of time and money to attract customers to their clothing and shoes, as well as entice them to stay. Of course, the individual exerciser or competitor will choose the clothing and shoes that best suits the purpose. Over time each person will settle comfortably into the running clothing, running shoes, bicycle clothing and bicycle shoes that are affordable and comfortable.
Bicycle clothing and shoes are a slightly different animal. The sole of the running shoe has to of a certain thickness and design, as does the bicycle shoe. Neither shoe will have a heel. The angle of the sole must be just right for running. In the case of the shoe used for bicycling, a lighter design is preferable since the individual doesn’t experience the impact/contact with the running surface. There are also significant differences between shorts for running and for bicycling. Bicycle clothing is generally tighter fitting, for example. In both cases, amateurs and professionals generally find a manufacturer and design that works for them, and then stick with it unless they uncover something much better.
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