Cycling clothing

Having the right cycling clothes is a crucial element for any rider’s gear, giving you the comfort, protection and performance needed to be ready for daily commutes or long-distance rides. With padded bike shorts, jerseys, gloves, socks and pants, MEC has the best gear designed for the everyday cyclist, all from brands like MEC Label, Louis Garneau, Pearl Izumi and more.

Cycling clothing features

There’s a lot of special details that make cycling clothes as epic as they are. Many bike clothes are waterproof and windproof, keeping your dry and warm as you speed through the elements. Reflective details are another popular feature, letting light reflect off your clothes on darker days to let pedestrians and cars know where you are. Clothing with antimicrobial treatment is for those who want to avoid being smelly during or after their ride. Antimicrobial fabric helps with odor build-up and keeps your clothes fresh (as long as you’re consistent with washing them.

Cycling shorts and jerseys

Specific types of cycling shorts, like ones made for gravel riding and mountain biking, are more padded than others. Padded bike shorts are specifically made to provide cushioning between you and the bike saddle, which can start to feel uncomfortable after several hours on the road. The padding helps to absorb shock and reduce pressure, preventing saddle sores and creating a more comfortable ride. If you’re planning on bikepacking or an all-day ride, padded cycling shorts are essential for a smooth trip. Traditional biking shorts are usually knee-length and feature a snug fit, making them ideal for road rides. For those who prefer a looser fit, baggy cycling shorts are available, often with a removable padded liner. If it’s shoulder season or cooler weather, then you’ll need more layers than a simple jersey and shorts. Wear longer sleeves and a waterproof-breathable jacket that’s tough enough to handle branches and mud. Layering full-length bike tights under your bike shorts is also an option.

Biking gloves

Compared to gloves for road or commuter biking, gloves designed for mountain biking are often beefed up with more durable fabric and full finger coverage. Full-fingered gloves keep you covered for whipping past branches and offer some protection for wipeouts. Some experienced riders prefer minimalist gloves without padding, since that can give better hand-to-bar contact. Most gloves also have silicone finger tips for braking and shifting.