Dress the part...

So I've kind of latched on to this idea of the bloggies. I know that there are a gabillion other blogs much more worthy of me to win something (Jill Ouside, Hyperboleandahalf, bikesnobnyc, honey drenched asian feet), but it's got me thinking of ways as to how to improve this blog so that more people find it enjoyable. I know I know, this blog stands on it's own and has no need for extra panache, however a common theme I see with all those other really good blogs is that they include picture. So for today's post, I have a good idea as to what I want to write, however I'm gonna try something new and incorporate photos to help with the deliver. Let's see what happens.

As cyclist one of the things we accept is that we will look ridiculous. We may have great form on the climbs, however we are still squeezed into spandex. And no matter how fit you are, chartreuse mixed with fluorescent blue with a splash of green is just not gonna look great. But it needs to be done, that is you need to wear the gear to maximize the ride. Not really looking to go all out? Understandable. So what is the bare minimum I need to ride but not look like a strict commuter. Glad you asked.

1) Helmet--This is a must and with so many different styles to choose from, you can easily find one that works with the vibe you want to send out. Basic criteria? It should be visor less if you are on the road, the visor is optional when on the dirt, and it should fit rather snuggly but not uncomfortably. Sort of like this:



2) Shorts--With the headgear rock'n, it's now time for one of the most critical aspects: butt protection. Shorts or bibs? Full length or knickers? Solid color or multi? 4 panel or 8 panel chamois? It's all preference, as one pair of shorts will feel like silk to one person whereas another person will swear it felt like taking sand paper to their nether-regions. Regardless, a good pair of shorts are a must. They don't have to be flashy, and more than likely you're not gonna look like this guy:



But with the right shorts your ass isn't gonna feel like this:



3) Jersey--If you're serious about cycling and want to do it for long distances, a jersey is nice because it wicks sweat away from you and has pockets in the back to hold that oh so tasty gu. But this is where the selection is endless. There are millions of jerseys out there, and picking one is all in the eye of the beholder. Again, personal preference comes into play as they all have the same features. All you need to do is figure out if you want club or racing cut, and full length or 3/4 zip. Know that this is the focal point of your kit though. People don't ride up and say "nice helmet" or "where did you get those shorts?" as much as they will comment on your jersey. I suggest low key ones so people don't read too much into your abilities. And for those riders who may have the same interests as mine, may I suggest the following:



There are plenty of other things to worry about when going out for a ride, but these are kind of the essentials as to at least looking the part and having a somewhat comfortable ride. Even if you don't want to come across as a pro, you still can't be careless about your clothing choices. After all, you want to look competent and ungomerish. You want people to at least consider you sound, like this:



But not recoil in horror based on what you are wearing, like this:



Now squeeze into that lycra and get going!!