Cycling jersey

A road cyclist wearing a typical, modern slim-fitting summer jersey with graphics design, association and sponsor logos.
The rear of the jersey features pockets at the waist facing upwards to store belongings.

A cycling jersey is a specialised jersey for cycling.

The cycling jersey used to be made of wool since the inception of cycling as a sport in the early 1900s,[1] while contemporary jerseys have evolved into technical sportswear that is lightweight, fitted, made of synthetic and moisture-wicking fabric.

A specialised cycling jersey for the road discipline features the following unique characteristics:[2][3][4]

  • A longer cut in the back to accommodate the bent-over cycling position
  • Pockets on the back panel to prevent spill
  • Silicone grippers at the hem to prevent the jersey from moving up the body while cycling
  • Full length zip to allow for ventilation
  • Tight-fitting cut to eliminate loose fabric and reduce air resistance
  • Moisture-wicking material to keep the cyclist cooler and more comfortable

Cycling jerseys are available in various cuts. For instance, a loose 'club cut' offering relaxed fit for recreational cyclists, and a form-fitting 'race cut' featuring a tailored fit that is tighter and shorter.[5] Jerseys for other cycling disciplines such as mountain biking have different characteristics. Looser jerseys allow body armour to be worn beneath.[6] Long sleeve options also provide additional protection against branches and twigs.[7]

Professional cycling is heavily sponsored. Regulations specify the size, colour and the placement of sponsor, national federation and manufacturer logos and other graphics.[8] In professional races, certain colours or patterns have special symbolism that signify the leader or the champion of a race or tour. Numbers are pinned on the back of the jersey for a race.

  1. ^ "Cycling Jersey: A Robust History, From Bland to Colorful to Current Trends". See Me Wear High Visibility Cycling Jerseys. 2018-03-08. Retrieved 2022-10-16.
  2. ^ Brown, John. "The Importance of a Cycling Jersey". HaveFunBiking.com. Retrieved 2022-10-16.
  3. ^ "Bicycle Jerseys - Should You Buy One? Benefits to Wearing a Bike Jersey". See Me Wear High Visibility Cycling Jerseys. Retrieved 2022-10-16.
  4. ^ "4 Tips for Choosing a Cycling Jersey". Pactimo. Retrieved 2022-10-16.
  5. ^ "Cycling Size Guide". Champion System Canada. Retrieved 2022-10-18.
  6. ^ "Buyer's guide to summer mountain bike jerseys". off-road.cc. 2018-04-20. Retrieved 2022-10-16.
  7. ^ Zach Nehr (2021-12-01). "What to wear mountain biking: All the mountain bike gear you need from head to toe". Bike Perfect. Retrieved 2022-10-16.
  8. ^ UCI JERSEYS VISUAL GUIDELINES MANUFACTURER SPECIFICATIONS & MODEL VARIATIONS (PDF). 2021.