What clothing will I need?

One_Job

Hello,

I was looking at starting mountain biking, I've been saving my money up, but I've had a change of heart and decided road cycling will probably suit me better.
I have a question though, what clothing/equipment will I need?
Helmet is obvious really, but what about shoes, gloves, shorts etc, what should I be looking out for? Will Halfords have good quality stuff? Last thing I want to do is get the wrong for the job or end up buying poor quality equipment.

bobtbuilder

It depends on whether you intend to ride throughout the Winter as well, but for Spring, Summer & Autumn I would suggest the following:

Shoes + cleats (the biggest upgrade you can make)
Bibshorts with a good quality insert (to be worn "commando") - IMO this is the one area not to scrimp in. I reckon you're better off with 2 pairs of good quality bibshorts than 6 cheap pairs.
Jersey
Gloves
Arm warmers (effectively convert your short sleeve jersey into a long sleeved one for early mornings or evenings or when it's a bit nippy).
Base layer

Possibly a pack-away rain jacket in case you get caught in a downpour.

I wouldn't go near halfords with a barge-pole. Try www.prendas.co.uk. Mick & Andy are great at getting stuff to fit you.

gwillis

+1 for prendas , very helpful and their own brand stuff is excellent.

skyd0g

+1

Lycra Man

I agree with bobtbuilder's recommendations, especially getting the best quality bibshorts you can afford. I have gone for Giordana. If I win the lottery, I will have Assos everything.

Jerseys can be picked up cheaper from elsewhere, I have two from Aldi/Lidl and they have worn very well, plus a pair of their winter gloves.

If you ride through the winter, you will want long sleeve base layers, plus bib tights - I have one with pad for Autumn/Spring, and one without pad worn over bibshorts for double layering when it's really cold.

Lycra Man

chrism_scotland

I'd recommend some of the DHB Brand stuff from Wiggle, just started myself and got some Jersey's, Base Layers and a Waterproof Gilet, all very cheaply and it seems excellent quality.

carrock

decathlon is very good, if you avoid the really cheap shorts

Basic decathlon cycling jerseys made from wicking material with pockets are £8.95

Decent shorts ( with the red pad ) are £20

Mostly own brand but great value

cougie

+1 for DHB shorts. In fact my ebay replica shorts are as comfy as any others i have. Including assos.

One_Job

Thanks for the replies.

Rich Hcp

I recommend the Shutt VR Standard bib shorts

MichaelW

You dont need to get the whole kit at once or start off with premium grade stuff.
If you already have wicking athletic shirts and windproof, they could do for a while.
The only essential for sporty road riding are bike shorts (2 pairs), helmet and gloves.
Nice to have are cycling shoes and jersey
For winter, non-cycling midlayer tops are often more useful. Some kind of leggings (Ron hills) are needed when it cools down.
A decent windproof and a waterproof are essential for winter riding.

The Lidl/Aldi bike sales are a good time to stock up, their stuff is surprisingly good.