Cycling Clothing Materials

Bike clothes are mostly made out of synthetic fabrics with names unfamiliar to the general populace. Here's a quick take on some of the more frequently used ones:

• Lycra is machine washable, doesn't absorb moisture, and is used in warm weather (but it snags easily)
• Capilene is very comfortable, wicks away moisture, and comes in several weights for different climates
• Thermax is heat resistant so you can throw those clothes in the dryer
• Polarite is fluffy, comfortable and very warm, but doesn't wick away moisture well

*Assess what you need and make an educated decision when selecting biking clothes.