Cycling Tops & T-Shirts

Cycling tops come in a range of styles to suit different riding conditions, disciplines, and personal preferences. Understanding these options helps you build a cycling wardrobe that works year round.

• Short sleeve cycling jerseys: Ideal for summer riding and warmer conditions, these lightweight cycling tops offer excellent ventilation and freedom of movement. They are a staple for road cycling and everyday rides.
• Long sleeve cycling jerseys: Designed for cooler temperatures, long sleeve cycling tops provide extra coverage while maintaining breathability. They are well suited to spring, autumn, and layered winter riding.
• Road cycling jerseys: Close fitting and aerodynamic, these cycling jerseys are designed to reduce wind resistance. They typically feature rear pockets for ride essentials and lightweight materials for high performance riding.
• Mountain biking jerseys: Looser fitting and more durable, MTB cycling tops prioritise comfort, coverage, and abrasion resistance. They are designed to cope with varied terrain and off road conditions.
• Thermal cycling tops: Built for colder weather, these cycling jerseys include brushed inner layers or thicker fabrics to retain warmth while still allowing moisture to escape.

Each style supports different riding environments, from smooth road routes to demanding mountain biking trails.

Materials and How They Work

The materials used in cycling tops directly affect comfort, durability, and performance on the bike.

• Polyester: The most common fabric in cycling jerseys, valued for its durability, quick drying properties, and ease of care.
• Polyamide: Lightweight and abrasion resistant, often used in high wear areas to improve durability.
• Elastane (Spandex or Lycra): Adds stretch and recovery, allowing cycling tops to remain close fitting without restricting movement.
• Moisture wicking fabrics: Designed to pull sweat away from the skin, helping regulate body temperature during long or intense rides.
• Breathable fabrics: Allow airflow through the garment, reducing overheating and improving comfort across changing conditions.

These materials work together to ensure cycling jerseys remain comfortable, flexible, and suitable for repeated use.

Quality cycling tops include practical features that support performance and usability on the bike.

• Rear pockets for storing ride essentials such as snacks, tools, or a phone
• Close fitting cut that supports aerodynamics without restricting movement
• Stretch fabrics that move naturally with the body
• Breathable panels that improve airflow during effort
• Full length or partial zip for ventilation control
• Reflective details to improve visibility in low light conditions

These features help cycling jerseys perform reliably across a wide range of riding styles.

Matching your cycling top to how and where you ride ensures better comfort and performance.

• Road cycling: Choose lightweight, close fitting cycling jerseys with rear pockets and high breathability.
• Mountain biking: Opt for more relaxed cycling tops with durable fabrics and increased coverage.
• Everyday riding and commuting: Cycling tops that balance comfort, breathability, and subtle style work well for regular use.
• Cool weather riding: Long sleeve cycling jerseys provide added coverage while remaining breathable.
• Long distance rides: Moisture managing cycling tops with comfortable seams help maintain comfort over many hours.

Building a flexible cycling wardrobe allows you to adapt to different conditions throughout the year.