As a cycling apparel manufacturer, we know fabric selection is crucial in creating exceptional cycling wear that stands out from average options. Cycling clothes need special fabrics. They must perform well during intense exercise, handle weather changes, and allow free movement.
This article explores the different fabrics used in cycling apparel, highlighting their specific benefits and how they contribute to an enjoyable riding experience.
Read on to discover what fabric are cycling clothes made of and learn how they can benefit your customers and their cycling enthusiasts.

Table of Contents
What Fabric Are Cycling Clothes Made Of?
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Fabric | Properties | Usage |
---|---|---|
Lycra/Spandex | – Lightweight – Stretchy – Moisture-wicking | – Commonly found in shorts and jerseys – Allows for a snug, body-conforming fit |
Polyester | – Excellent moisture management – Quick-drying – Durable | – Predominant in jerseys – Makes up around 80% of many cycling garments due to efficient moisture wicking |
Nylon | – Lightweight – Strong – Abrasion-resistant | – Often used in outer layers and shorts – Provides added durability against harsh conditions |
Merino Wool | – Natural insulation – Moisture-wicking – Odor-resistant | – Ideal for winter cycling – Helps regulate temperature and remains warm even when wet |
Specialty Fabrics (e.g., Supplex, Meryl) | – Advanced moisture management – UV protection | – Found in high-performance cycling gear – Designed for comfort and durability |
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Understanding Technical Cycling Fabrics

When asked what fabric are cycling clothes made of , you need know technical fabrics have transformed the cycling apparel industry. Synthetic materials now dominate the market. Polyester has become the most-used textile, surpassing cotton. Its demand has jumped over 50% since 1980.
Natural vs Synthetic Materials
Cycling clothes come in two main categories: natural and synthetic fibers. Natural fibers like cotton and wool come from plants or animals. Manufacturers create synthetics from chemical compounds. Cotton is comfortable and hypoallergenic. But, it shrinks and traps moisture. This is a problem for cycling wear.
Common Fabric Blends and Their Benefits
Today’s high-performance bicycle fabric combines multiple materials to maximize benefits. To cite an instance, popular wool-polyester blends typically contain:
Component | Percentage | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Polyester | 60-80% | Moisture wicking, durability |
Merino wool | 20-40% | Temperature regulation, odor resistance |
Professional cycling teams and sportswear brands must understand these material combinations. MITI and Carvico, Italian fabric makers, lead in high-tech fabrics. They continuously develop materials with superior characteristics for competitive cycling wear .
Performance Features and Technologies
Modern cycling apparel integrates innovative technologies that change simple fabrics into high-performance gear. Let me walk you through the state-of-the-art features that help your cycling clothes perform better.
Moisture Management Systems

Your cycling performance relies on staying dry during intense rides. Advanced moisture management systems pull sweat from your skin. They spread it on the fabric’s surface to evaporate quickly. These technical fabrics employ specialized capillary channels that ensure quick moisture transfer. This keeps you comfortable even on challenging rides.
Temperature Regulation Properties
Your cycling gear must adapt to changing conditions. Research shows that body-mapping, synthetic fabrics can boost exercise performance. They are better than standard clothing 7. Modern cycling clothes include:
- Strategic ventilation zones in high-sweat areas
- Thermal regulation layers that trap warm air when needed
- Quick-drying properties to prevent post-exercise chilling
Compression and Support Technologies
Compression technology stands out as a game-changer in high-performance cycling wear. Studies show that quality compression gear improves endurance, posture, and reduces muscle soreness. Compression technology enhances your performance in several ways:
Benefit | Performance Impact |
---|---|
Blood Flow | Increases oxygen delivery to muscles |
Muscle Support | Reduces fatigue during long rides |
Recovery | Assists in post-ride muscle recovery |
Smart fabric innovations keep evolving. Researchers are developing temperature-controlling garments that automatically adjust to your body’s needs. These advanced materials can trap dead air for insulation. Or, they can use electric currents in their fibers to generate heat. This ensures peak performance in various conditions.
Fabric Selection by Riding Style
Picking the right fabric for your cycling apparel line goes beyond material knowledge. Each riding discipline just needs specific fabric properties. Let’s look at how different riding styles shape fabric choices.
Road Cycling Requirements

Road cyclists just need aerodynamic efficiency and lightweight materials. Your cycling jersey fabric should focus on:
- Lightweight polyester blends (90-120 gsm) to minimize wind resistance
- Form-fitting materials with 5-10% spandex to boost aerodynamic performance
- Strategic mesh panels that ventilate without affecting speed
Mountain Biking Considerations
Mountain biking throws unique challenges at riders. Trail and downhill riding just need reliable gear. Most riders choose:
Feature | Material Choice | Benefit |
---|---|---|
Outer Layer | Reinforced nylon | Tear resistance |
Inner Layer | Merino blend | Temperature regulation |
Protection | UHMWPE fabric | 15x stronger than steel |
Indoor Training Needs

Indoor training creates its own set of challenges for bicycle fabric. Recent developments in turbo-specific kit have changed the game for indoor training gear . Your indoor cycling apparel should have:
Indoor riders generate 30% more heat than outdoor cyclists. This calls for maximum ventilation through strategic mesh placement. The cycling fabric industry has adapted. It now offers specialized, indoor materials. They improve moisture-wicking and temperature control.
Sportswear manufacturers or gym clothing supplier of indoor training gear should use fabrics that manage sweat and dissipate heat. Bamboo-based materials are a great way to get natural, anti-bacterial, breathable fabrics.
Quality Standards and Certifications

Quality assurance in cycling apparel manufacturing has evolved by a lot. Your products must meet international standards through strict testing protocols. Here’s a complete framework that defines excellence in cycling clothes material production.
Industry Testing Methods
Your cycling jersey fabric needs rigorous tests to ensure its safety and performance. Physical testing looks at important properties like:
- Shrinkage resistance (tested at 80°C for 2 hours)
- Abrasion resistance using Wyzenbeek and Martindale methods
- Tensile strength under controlled tension
If you have questions about cycling clothing quality, please contact our experts. Their professional knowledge will definitely help you.
Conclusion
Today’s cycling apparel blends technical fabrics with cutting-edge features that meet riders’ needs. High-performance cycling wear relies on synthetic materials like polyester and nylon. These materials wick moisture and control temperature. They boost athlete comfort and performance. Many sportswear brands and pro teams have gained from these fabric breakthroughs.
Your riding style and performance needs should guide your cycling gear choices. We welcome sportswear brands and pro teams looking for custom cycling clothes. Feel free to reach out us at leelinesports.com or [email protected] to discuss what you need.
FAQs
1. What type of fabric is commonly used in cycling apparel?
Cyclists often wear Lycra. It has a snug, aerodynamic fit. It moves with the body and stays in place. This reduces rubbing and chafing. This lightweight, technical fabric wicks away sweat. It keeps riders dry and comfy on long rides.
2. Which is preferable for a cycling jersey, nylon or polyester?
Nylon is softer and stronger than polyester. It is very comfortable for rides. But, it does not wick moisture or breathe as well as polyester. Therefore, for those aspects, polyester might be a better choice.
3. What is the ideal material for a cycling jersey?
For summer, cycling jerseys should be breathable and lightweight. Use synthetic materials like polyester, elastane, nylon, or Lycra. These materials often have mesh vents and quick-dry tech. They wick moisture and block UV rays.
4. What materials are used to make cyclist suits?
Cycling suits are usually made from Lycra, spandex, or other low-friction fabrics. These materials slide easily against the skin and wick moisture. This is key for comfort on long rides.
5. Are there cycling clothes made from natural materials like linen or cotton?
Most cycling gear is made from synthetic materials, like elastane, for performance. But, some companies offer products made from sustainable materials. However, options like linen or cotton are less common. They lack the moisture-wicking and stretch properties that are key for cycling apparel.
References
[1] – https://www.lameda.cc/choosing-the-right-fabrics-for-your-cycling-apparel/
[2] – https://www.cyclingelectric.com/in-depth/different-cycling-clothes