Body for Cycling

How to choose a good cycling bodysuit?

The bodysuit should be chosen based on how you will use it: short races, daily training, and long races require different features. These are the criteria to evaluate.

Fit and size

The bodysuit must fit like a second skin to reduce air resistance, but it must not hinder breathing or limit movement. To choose the size, measure your chest circumference, waist, inseam, and height, and compare them with the manufacturer's size chart: measurements vary from brand to brand. After trying it on, assume the riding position: nothing should slip, pull on the shoulders, or give way while you pedal.

Fabric

The fabrics are lightweight, breathable, and often compression: they help evaporate sweat and reduce muscle fatigue. In more technical models, panels made of different fabrics manage airflow over the arms and shoulders, which encounter the air first. Mesh areas improve breathability in hot weather.

Chamois

The chamois should be chosen based on the duration of the effort: thinner and more minimal for short races, more padded for long rides. If you are undecided, try the bodysuit on a ride of at least one hour before an important race.

Zipper, pockets, and details

Many bodysuits have a full-length front zipper. Rear pockets, absent in historical models, are now found on many versions, but they remain less capacious than those on a classic jersey. Also consider the seams and elastic bands on the legs and arms, which must hold the garment in place without marking the skin.

Bodysuit or jersey and shorts set?

The bodysuit has fewer open seams and less fabric bunching at the waist, so it offers less air resistance. It is more useful when speed is high and constant and the position is controlled, as in time trials, criteriums, road races, and triathlons. If instead you ride at a moderate pace, do a lot of climbing, or seek comfort all day with space for food and tools, a set of jerseys and shorts may be more practical. The advantage of a bodysuit varies from person to person, depending on speed, position, and fabric.

Triathlon bodysuits

The triathlon bodysuit has a thinner chamois, designed for an aerodynamic position and to remain comfortable even during the swim and run legs, and a lightweight fabric that dries quickly. Rear pockets are limited or absent: in long distances it is advisable to organize gels, bottles, and feed stations in advance. For care, follow the manufacturer's label: generally, wash on a delicate cycle and avoid high-temperature drying. You can find all models in the triathlon bodysuits section.

Men's cycling bodysuits

Men's bodysuits have a cut and chamois designed for male anatomy. Always compare the size with the model's size chart: chest measurement is the most important for fit. If you are between two sizes, consider that the bodysuit is worn directly against the skin and must remain snug without being tight.

Women's cycling bodysuits

Women's bodysuits have a chamois and cut dedicated to female anatomy, with different proportions between chest, waist, and hips. Choose the model in the women's version and check the size on the manufacturer's chart. If possible, try the bodysuit on the bike before a race: the riding position can change the perceived fit on the shoulders and legs.

Winter cycling bodysuit vs summer cycling bodysuit: the differences

The winter bodysuit has long sleeves and legs and thermal fabrics, to protect from the cold without adding weight. The summer bodysuit has short sleeves or sleeveless and a cool, breathable fabric, to dissipate heat. In intermediate seasons you can pair the bodysuit with layering items, choosing between arm warmers, leg warmers, knee warmers, and shoe covers, jackets, base layers, and gloves and socks.

To complete the equipment

If you are preparing for a race, you can also look at the professional team clothing and, to choose the bicycle, the bike section of the shop.

Frequently asked questions about cycling bodysuits

Is the bodysuit suitable for training as well?

Yes, many cyclists use it for daily training, not just for races. If you ride for many hours and want more space for food, consider a model with rear pockets or a jersey and shorts set.

What is the difference between a cycling bodysuit and a triathlon bodysuit?

The triathlon bodysuit has a thinner chamois, a fabric that dries quickly, and fewer pockets, as it is designed to transition from swimming to cycling to running. The cycling bodysuit generally has a more padded chamois and more capacious rear pockets.

How do I choose the bodysuit size?

Measure your chest, waist, inseam, and height and compare them with the model's size chart. The bodysuit is snug and is worn directly against the skin, so after trying it on, assume the riding position: it must not slip or pull.