There's no need to look like a Tour de France rider to cycle on bike paths or commute by bike. However, cycling clothing has features and properties that make it almost indispensable...

Bruno Paradis has been cycling for over 30 years: with groups, competitive teams, and to satisfy his great passion. He has accumulated thousands of kilometers on two wheels all over the world. He agreed to share his thoughts on the importance of cyclist clothing and certain accessories.

Cycling shorts connect the rider's rear to the saddle, so there's no need to elaborate on their importance! Cycling shorts help reduce discomfort and skin irritation by absorbing perspiration and protecting the skin. Side elastic bands provide good support for the thighs.

Should you choose cycling shorts or bib shorts? The advantage of bibs, according to Bruno Paradis, is that they "stay in place when raising and lowering off the saddle and save us from plumber's crack!" Furthermore, the absence of a seam at the waist provides greater comfort and an undeniable aesthetic advantage at the beginning of the season. Regardless of the style, well-fitting cycling shorts are essential for long rides.

The chamois (integrated into cycling shorts) is made of foam or gel and reduces the impact of road irregularities on the muscles, bones, and any other body part in direct contact with the saddle. The thicker the chamois, the more comfortable the saddle!

The jersey not only offers ventilation and lightness, but also storage! Indeed, since there are no pockets on cycling shorts, the jersey becomes the repository for keys, phone, and wallet. Like cycling shorts, it prevents chafing and absorbs moisture.

It should be fitted, even if it's not always flattering. Choosing a loose jersey to hide your love handles can only increase chafing and irritation. "Many cyclists look like little sausages in the spring," Bruno says, laughing, "and avoid streets lined with crowded patios!"

Helmets have become indispensable – head injuries are the leading cause of death among cyclists – but are not mandatory. "There are more and more cars, and the condition of the roads continues to deteriorate... it has become unthinkable to ride without a helmet," says Bruno Paradis.

A light bike helmet helps prevent neck pain during long rides. Good ventilation is essential for long journeys. The price of helmets increases according to these two criteria.

The new urban trend of hard-shell helmets (cheese grater or skateboarder type) should be avoided for long rides due to lack of ventilation.

Cycling shoes: Used in conjunction with clipless pedals , offer energy savings and stability. They increase power through stability on the pedals. "It's like a ski binding; it anchors the leg for better efficiency of the leg and gluteal muscles." Quite useful when climbing a hill, as the leg can "pull" the pedal instead of just pushing it. See the article on how to choose the right cycling shoe .

Gloves absorb vibrations and perspiration. They are not essential, believes Bruno Paradis. "When you have a very good bike that reduces vibrations, they are mainly used to wipe something dangling from your nose!"

To each their own, but when it's hot, they offer a better grip on the handlebars and can also protect hands in case of a fall.

Glasses , finally, are not just about looks. They protect from the sun, of course, but also, and perhaps most importantly, from dust, insects, rain, and any other matter that could harm our eyes... and our safety.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A historian by training, Louise Bouchard has worked in journalism for 15 years. She spent nine years at Radio-Canada's French radio, holding various positions. Her time in Sudbury (Ontario) allowed her to take a close interest in the state of the Francophonie in the region. She also taught history and journalism and was a member of the Board of Directors of the Institut franco-ontarien and an administrator of the Salon du livre du Grand Sudbury.