Cycling Clothing Buyer’s Guide

The key function of base layers and thermals is to keep you at a comfortable temperature while you’re riding. You’ll want these layers to be close-fitting but not excessively tight, and the type of material they’re made from will determine whether they’re right for your needs.

A light, breathable base layer material such as polypropylene will help your sweat evaporate and keep your skin cool - perfect for hotter conditions. Conversely, a more insulated base layer will help you maintain your body heat while cycling in the cold winter months.

One of our top picks for thermal cycling jerseys is the Ridge Long Sleeve Jersey in Dark Blue. This versatile jersey can be worn on its own for style or layered under a jacket for added warmth in colder weather. Made from soft brushed-back polyester, it offers great warmth and breathability to keep you cosy without overheating. Three roomy back pockets provide space for essentials like snacks, water bottles, or a light jacket, making it ideal for long rides.

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There are two key features to look out for when it comes to cycling shorts.

First, you'll need flexibility. Since your legs do most of the work on a ride, your shorts need to not restrict your movement. The best option is usually a stretchy elastane fabric that acts as a second skin and moves with you on the bike.

Padding is the other key feature. As your body weight usually rests on a few points on the saddle, soreness and stiffness can occur on sensitive areas, especially if you ride for extended periods of time. To combat this, many of our cycling shorts come with built-in padding or a chamois, which helps to cushion some of the pressure from the saddle. You'll certainly be thankful of extra padding if you're just getting into cycling, as you won't be used to sitting in an awkward position!

If you're planning on longer road rides, then a pair of bib shorts may be the best option. Bibs offer straps that sit on the shoulders to prevent them from falling, and a specially designed thinner waistband to prevent them from digging into your stomach.

If you don't want a snug fit, then try out baggy shorts that are ideal for leisure riding, mountain biking and commuting. They'll still offer plenty of flexibility, with the added bonus of padding.

The Cycling Shorts are a great all-rounder, perfect for leisure, fitness and commuting. The medium-density foam chamois pad keeps you comfortable in the saddle for rides up to 2 hours.

If you fancy an upgrade, the Boardman Cycling Shorts feature silicon grippers in the hems to prevent the fabric from slipping. Made from stretchy materials, these shorts offer comfort and support throughout your rides.

There’s also the Boardman Bib Shorts, if you’re looking for an alternative to waist shorts. Bib shorts are an ideal option for long rides, with no waistband potentially causing you discomfort over time. The quick drying fabric wicks away moisture, helping regulate your body temperature.

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Choosing a good cycling jersey will make life a lot easier, even on short rides. As well as conforming to your body shape as you move, cycling jerseys do a few important jobs.

If you're working hard in the saddle, then it's likely you'll start to sweat. A decent cycling jersey will draw this sweat away from your body, keeping you both dry and comfortable and helping to regulate your temperature. They'll also do the opposite if it's cold, acting as another insulation layer to help you retain heat.

You'll find pockets on the lower back of the jersey, which can be very handy on long rides and allow you to store your keys, phone, energy gels, multi-tool, or other ride essentials on your back and out of the way.

The Cycling Jersey in Fluro is a great value option, with the fluorescent design providing enhanced visibility. The breathable fabric also helps promote airflow, making it perfect for warmer rides.

A more premium option is the Short Sleeve Jersey. The silicone hem gripper ensures the jersey stays in place while the flat seam sleeve minimises skin irritation, making it a great option for longer rides.

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If you're riding in winter, then a long-sleeved jacket is a great way of conserving heat and keeping the wind off your arms. Ask any rider what the key to staying warm or cool is and they'll tell you it's all about the layers. Try mixing up a jersey and jacket or even adding a base layer underneath for additional heat conservation.

Other features to look out for are dipped hems, to stop any unwanted drafts, and neon colours reflective detailing. Cycling at night or during bad weather can get dangerous, so giving other drivers the best possible chance of seeing you is critical. High visibility and reflective clothing uses special materials that reflect light from streetlamps and car headlights, making other road or path users aware of you.

A great option is theRidge Waterproof Jacket. The fluorescent design and reflective details improve your visibility to other road users while keeping your dry during rainy rides. It also features a removeable hood and pockets for keeping your essentials safe.

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Just like pretty much every piece of cycling clothing, gloves do several important jobs that will not only keep you comfortable, but safe too. Spending a lot of time supporting your upper body on the handlebars can result in sore palms, so some gel padding to support the main pressure points will allow you to ride for longer, as well as making it easier to get back on your bike a few days later without too much soreness.

We love the Boardman Mitts with their foam padding that helps absorb road vibrations and offers additional hand protection. They also provide greater comfort on the handlebars and feature perforated palms that help promote airflow.

For greater warmth, the Lightweight Cycling Gloves are windproof and water resistant, making them perfect for winter. They’re also touchscreen compatible and feature a silicone print palm for extra grip.

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Whether you're a road rider putting in effort on a hot day or a mountain bike rider battling against the elements, a good pair of socks will go a long way to keeping you comfortable. If sweat and heat are problems, then a decent pair of cycling socks will wick sweat away, keeping your feet nice and cool. If you're on the other end of the temperature spectrum, then look for a pair of thicker cycling socks that will keep your feet warmer for longer.

The Boardman 2pk Cycling Socks provide lasting comfort on long rides, made from breathable fabric, ensuring optimal ventilation

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While we're on the subject of feet, cycling shoes are super important. Although it's totally possible to ride a bike in trainers if you're commuting a short distance, we'd always recommend cycling shoes with cleats for longer journeys. These specially designed shoes allow for a cleat (or clip) on the sole that clips into specially designed pedals (which you'll need to fit to your bike - check out our guide).

This means you can not only push the pedals but also pull, increasing efficiency and allowing you to cycle further by using more muscles in your leg. The other benefit to cleats is that your

A couple of our top picks for cycling shoes include the Ridge Leisure Cycling Shoes, which are a great value, light, hiking-style shoe, but with a stiffer sole for greater traction and pedalling efficiency. This particular shoe uses a two-bolt cleat system, which is recessed into the sole.

A more premium option is the Boardman Road Cycling Shoe, which features a PU upper that’s vented on both sides, promoting good air flow and breathability. Compatible with both 3 bolt and 2 bolt SPD cleat systems, this lightweight shoe will fit most pedal types

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A pair of clear glasses will keep wind and bugs out of your eyes, so they're a must-have if you're planning on flying down hills or winding up the pace on the flat. If you're riding in summer or in bright conditions, then consider a pair of cycling sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays.

The Halfords Full Frame Polarised Sunglasses offer 100% UV protection while shielding you against wind and spray whilst out riding in normal to bright light conditions.

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Your helmet is the key to safe journeys. Here at Halfords, we have a wide selection of helmets for every type of rider. Whether it’s something aero for roadies, a stylish number for your daily commute, or a trail-ready mountain bike helmet, you’ll find the perfect option to help keep you safe out on a ride. If you need some expert advice before choosing your new helmet, head over to our Bike Helmet Buying Guide.

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KinetiCore is an advanced helmet safety technology from Lazer that’s been ten years in the making. It uses unique EPS foam blocks to protect against both direct and rotational impact. Inspired by cars’ crumple zones, these blocks crumple under impact to absorb the energy and keep you protected.

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MIPs (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) is another innovative helmet safety system. Adding an extra low-friction layer into a helmet’s shell helps to reduce the rotational forces exerted to the head during an accident, making helmets with MIPs technology a worthwhile investment.

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