Biking is fun. If you ride for pleasure, or for competition, biking provides a wonderful overall workout that gets you into the fresh air. Though cycling has been a staple of transportation for many decades, it has only recently experienced the level of attention and participation it enjoys today. In the United States, a great deal of that popularity can be attributed to Lance Armstrong. He has helped cycling's astronomical rise and the new popularity of bicycle clothes. Professional cyclists need the sheerest advantages that only scientifically engineered materials can afford, but casual cyclists are also interested in bicycle clothes, and for good reason. Bicycle clothes are extremely comfortable.

Many articles of bicycle clothes are able to be worn by either sex, although there are some pretty spiffy designers producing their clothing to women. Everything from shorts, shirts, vests, coats, thermal gear, and suits are designed for bikers. The high tech material is UV reflective, a very critical attribute these days with all the warnings about skin damage flooding the media. The material is also lightweight and breathable, necessary in any weather. Bicycle clothes fit close to the body to cut down on wind resistance. A streamlined silhouette makes you faster.

Bicycle clothing is specially designed for all seasons. There are some really warm items for winter cycling, so you do not have to park your bike in the frigid tundra. Roubaix Lycra tights protect the legs from cold, and Aero nylon suits keep your entire body comfy. All types of thermal wear is available. For rainy, blustery days, special rain hoods and jackets shed water and give shelter from the wind.

Do you have to have specially made bicycle clothes to cycle? No, folks have been able to bike for a couple of centuries without them. But if you ask serious cyclists, they will tell you that sleek, form fitting bicycle clothes make for a more comfortable, swift ride.