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As an avid cyclist, I understand the importance of having the right gear for my rides. One of the most crucial pieces of equipment is a comfortable and reliable bike helmet. Top Picks
How I Chose the Best HelmetsWhen selecting a bike helmet, I consider several factors to ensure I make the right choice. Comfort is paramount, as I want to wear the helmet for extended periods without discomfort. Safety features, such as MIPS technology, are also crucial for added protection. Giro Fixture II MIPS Mountain Bike Helmet
The Giro Fixture II MIPS helmet is designed for everyone—men, women, and kids alike. With its sleek Matte Titanium finish, it not only looks good but also offers top-notch protection for your head during those long rides. I love how it fits comfortably right out of the box, thanks to its universal sizing that accommodates head circumferences from 54 to 61 cm. Whether I'm commuting to work or hitting the trails on the weekend, this helmet has become my go-to choice. Plus, the ventilation is fantastic, keeping my head cool even on hot days. If you're looking for a reliable helmet that combines comfort and safety, I highly recommend giving this one a try. What People SayUsers rave about the comfort and fit of the Giro Fixture II. Many appreciate the adjustable chin strap and the lightweight design, making it ideal for long rides. The MIPS technology is a standout feature that adds an extra layer of protection, which gives peace of mind while cycling.
- Kevin C
- JUSTCHILL3N Why You'll Love It
Versatile UsePerfect for both daily commutes and weekend adventures, this helmet is versatile enough to suit any biking occasion. Whether you're navigating city streets or tackling rugged trails, it provides the comfort and safety you need. Current Price: $74.95 Rating: 4.8 (Total: 14019+) Met Downtown MIPS Helmet Black/Glossy, S/M
The Met Downtown MIPS helmet is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy long rides with comfort and safety in mind. With its sleek black glossy finish, it not only looks stylish but also features MIPS technology, which provides an extra layer of protection against rotational forces during impacts. I’ve found it to be incredibly comfortable, fitting snugly without feeling too tight. Whether I'm commuting through the city or taking a leisurely ride on the weekend, this helmet has become my reliable companion. Plus, the lightweight design means I hardly notice I'm wearing it, making those longer rides much more enjoyable. What People SayUsers appreciate the comfort and fit of the Met Downtown helmet. Many highlight the adjustable features and lightweight design, making it perfect for extended rides. The MIPS technology is a significant plus, providing peace of mind while cycling.
- Claire
- Phil Alexander Why You'll Love It
Versatile UseThis helmet is perfect for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. Whether you're navigating busy city streets or enjoying a scenic route, it offers the comfort and safety you need to focus on the ride. Current Price: $79.00 Rating: 4.8 (Total: 13+) OutdoorMaster Gem Recreational MIPS Cycling Helmet - Mint Green
The OutdoorMaster Gem helmet is a standout choice for anyone gearing up for long rides. With its vibrant mint green color, it not only looks great but also incorporates MIPS technology, which adds an extra layer of safety against rotational forces during impacts. I’ve found it to be incredibly comfortable, thanks to its lightweight design and adjustable fit. Whether I'm cruising through the city or tackling a mountain trail, this helmet has quickly become my go-to. Plus, the ventilation keeps my head cool, making those longer rides much more enjoyable. What People SayUsers rave about the comfort and fit of the OutdoorMaster Gem helmet. Many highlight the adjustable features and ventilation, making it ideal for extended rides. The MIPS technology is a significant plus, providing peace of mind while cycling.
- Joshua R
- AO Wildcat Why You'll Love It
Versatile UseThis helmet is perfect for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. Whether you're navigating busy city streets or enjoying a scenic route, it offers the comfort and safety you need to focus on the ride. Current Price: $48.13 Rating: 4.8 (Total: 1127+) Giro Fixture Adult Recreational Cycling Helmet - Matte Trim Blue
The Giro Fixture helmet is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy long rides without compromising on comfort or safety. With its sleek matte trim blue design, it not only looks stylish but also offers excellent ventilation to keep your head cool during those warm summer rides. I’ve found it to be incredibly comfortable, thanks to the Roc Loc Sport fit system that allows for easy adjustments. Whether I’m commuting to work or hitting the trails, this helmet has quickly become my favorite companion on two wheels. What People SayUsers appreciate the Giro Fixture for its comfort and fit. Many highlight the adjustable features and ventilation, making it ideal for extended rides. The stylish design is also frequently mentioned, adding to its appeal.
- Nathan
- ALH Why You'll Love It
Versatile UseThis helmet is perfect for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. Whether you're navigating busy city streets or enjoying a scenic route, it offers the comfort and safety you need to focus on the ride. Current Price: $42.96 Rating: 4.8 (Total: 1715+) Polisport Twig Mtb Helmet
The Polisport Twig helmet is a standout choice for anyone who loves long rides and values comfort and safety. What People SayMany users rave about the comfort and ventilation of the Polisport Twig helmet. The lightweight feel and stylish design are frequently mentioned, making it a favorite among both casual riders and serious cyclists.
- BikeLover123 Why You'll Love It
Versatile UseThis helmet is perfect for both daily rides and adventurous mountain biking. Whether you're navigating city streets or tackling rugged trails, it provides the comfort and protection you need to enjoy every moment on your bike. Current Price: $112.05 Rating: 4.7 (Total: 250+) FAQWhat should I look for when buying a comfortable bike helmet for long rides?When I'm shopping for a bike helmet, especially for long rides, I focus on a few key features. First, I check for comfort and fit. A helmet should feel snug but not too tight, and I love options with adjustable straps and a fit system, like the Giro Fixture II MIPS. Ventilation is also crucial; I want to ensure that my head stays cool during those longer rides. Lastly, I always look for safety features like MIPS technology, which provides extra protection against rotational forces in case of an accident. How do I know if a helmet fits properly?To ensure a helmet fits properly, I start by measuring my head circumference and comparing it to the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer. When I put the helmet on, it should sit level on my head, not tilted back or forward. I also check that the straps form a 'V' shape just below my ears and that the chin strap is snug but comfortable. If I can fit two fingers between the strap and my chin, I know it's just right. Lastly, I give it a little shake; if it moves around too much, it might be too big. Are there any tips for wearing a helmet during long rides?Absolutely! I always make sure to wear my helmet correctly, ensuring it's fastened securely before I hit the road. For long rides, I find it helpful to wear a moisture-wicking headband or cap underneath to absorb sweat and keep my head cool. I also take breaks to let my head breathe if I'm feeling overheated. Lastly, I regularly check the fit and comfort of my helmet during rides, adjusting the straps if necessary to maintain that snug fit. It’s all about making sure I’m comfortable and safe while enjoying my ride! Wrapping UpIn conclusion, investing in a quality bike helmet is essential for any cyclist looking to enjoy long rides safely and comfortably. The helmets I've highlighted offer a range of features that cater to different needs and preferences. By choosing the right helmet, you can focus on the joy of cycling, knowing that your head is well protected.
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If you want to tour, but you’re not sure which type of bike is right for you, you’re not alone. Choosing the perfect bike for your trip can be an overwhelming task. There are so many options and variables to consider. Are you looking for a gravel bike, a mountain bike, a hybrid bike, a touring bike, a trekking bike, or a road touring bike? Read on to understand the differences and make an informed decision on how to pick the right touring bicycle for you! Table of ContentsHow Do You Want to Tour?Before you start looking at bikes, you’ll want to determine how you want to tour. Do you want to ride long distances? Are you interested in more challenging climbs? Do you want to experience different terrains? Do you want to ride through cities and towns? Or do you want to ride away from main roads on unpaved or gravel roads? Whether you’re interested in gravel biking, mountain biking, or a hybrid bike, there are specific features to look for depending on what type of bike you’re interested in, and I have tried to break down the differences as clearly as possible below: Touring BikesTouring bikes are characterized by their more upright riding position, wide rims, and drop, flat, riser or butteryfly handlebars. Usually, such touring bicycles come in men's and women's specific frames. They are most often equipped with wider tires suitable for paved and unpaved roads. Many touring bikes also feature front suspension for a more comfortable ride, and all touring bikes must include mounting points for racks to carry panniers and other accessories.
Although a typical touring bike weighs around 15 kg unloaded, they usually feature a wide range of gears to make cycling on hilly and flat terrain equally accessible. Touring bikes are designed to be versatile and durable, ideally using mid-range componenents which are easy to replace anywhere in the world, which makes them ideal for long-distance touring on mostly paved roads. Trekking BikesTrekking bikes are essentially touring bikes, with a more off road design - and largely a marketing designation. Just like touring bikes, they are designed to provide support for heavy loads, or for riders that want a bike that will be able to handle their camping gear or other supplies. They have a sturdy frame and wide, mixed surface or off-road tires to handle both paved and unpaved surfaces. Trekking bikes also feature racks and front or rear suspension and usually also include mudguards. Mountain BikesMountain bikes are designed to ride over a variety of terrain and tackle steeper hills and mountains, thanks to generously low gears. They feature wide rims, knobby tires, and suspension, which improve handling and maneuverability off road and increase the comfort of the off road ride. Mountain bikes are commonly equipped with suspension forks and additionally rear shocks for increased control and smooth riding on uneven surfaces.
Mountain bikes are typically heavier than road or hybrid bikes, but can easily be equipped with pannier racks make great touring bicycles, for comfortable use on all types of terrain from cobbled roads to forest trails, even when fully loaded. This makes them ideal for bike tours with over 50% unpaved roads. Gravel BikesGravel bikes are specifically designed to ride comfortably on unpaved and gravel trails. They are essentially road bikes, with wider, off-road tires and wider handlebars, and a slightly reinforced frame. While gravel bikes are normally slightly heavier than road bikes, they provide a bike that’s perfectly suited for a long-distance ride or for touring on and off paved roads.
Gravel bikes have a wide, low stance for increased stability and the ability to tackle all types of terrain. They feature wider rims, knobby tires, and wide handlebars to reduce vibration and provide a comfortable ride when riding over rough trails. Gravel bikes are normally designed with more rack and accessory mounting points than road bikes, making them the right choice for riders exploring smoother unpaved roads on their bike tour. All our gravel bikes come equipped with a rear rack and optional handlebar bags and rear panniers - but you can use your own bikepacking specific bags too! Hybrid bikesHybrid bikes are a combination of mountain, road, and gravel bikes. They have a hybrid frame and components, which combine the best qualities of different types of bikes to create the perfect, light touring bike. Hybrid bikes feature a rigid frame and ridgid fork, which aim to reduce weight. They also feature wider rims and mixed surface tires.
Hybrid bikes typically offer a more comfortable upright seated position for long-distance touring, and are ideally suited to paved roads and smoother terrain. We designate our hybrid bikes as "Light touring bikes", and they are popular for their lower weight and comfortable ride. Choosing the Right Bike for YouTo make an informed decision on which bike is best for you, you’ll need to consider where you want to ride and what style of bike touring suits you best. The best way to do this is to think about what type of touring you want to do and what type of bike you think will best suit your needs. As you consider your options, keep in mind that not all bikes are made for every type of bicycle touring. For example, if you’re interested in riding through cities, you may prefer a road bike or a hybrid, light touring bike. If you’re looking for a bike that’s best for long-distance touring off the beaten track, however, you want to look at gravel, mountain or suspension touring bikes instead. If you're still not sure what bike is best for you, don't worry, we are here to help, so just reach out below!  Photo by Munbaik Cycling Clothing from Pexels Cycling is one of the best ways to get around for short distances, and it's also a great way to stay fit. But what's the point if you're not comfortable? There are plenty of choices in cycling clothes these days, but the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. Here are 6 simple tips to help choosing clothes that will make cycling even more enjoyable. The Importance of ComfortComfort is extremely important when it comes to cycling clothes. If you're not comfortable, you won't want to keep riding your bike! Many cyclists will tell you that breathable fabrics are a must, which is true for summer months. But don't forget about the rest of the year. For winter cycling, synthetic fibers and wool clothing will keep you warm and dry. And if you have sensitive skin, you'll need to find clothing made from soft materials like cotton or synthetics. But what about your feet? Cycling can sometimes be uncomfortable on your feet because it puts pressure on the balls of your feet. To avoid this, wear shoes with grippy soles (like sneakers) or invest in cycling-specific shoes The Right Type of MaterialThe material you choose for your cycling clothes is going to make a huge difference in how comfortable you feel on the bike. Most of your clothes should be made out of a stretchy, breathable fabric that will not restrict any motion or sweating. When picking a cycling shirt, look for materials that are fitted and have short sleeves to avoid discomfort from riding with long sleeves. You also want to avoid fabrics that are too heavy, as they'll hang around you and cause chaffing. For pants, try out different types of materials like denim, polyester, and lycra. Ditch the jeans and go for synthetic pants that will wick sweat away from your body and keep you dry on those hot days!  Choosing the Right Cycling ShortsChoosing the right cycling shorts begins with your bicycle. If you're riding a bike with a narrow saddle, then you'll want to wear bike shorts that are more form-fitting than loose-fitting. But what about comfort? There are so many factors to consider when choosing clothes for cycling. First, make sure the waistband of your shorts isn't too tight. It should be snug enough to stay in place without cutting into your skin or feeling too tight on your stomach. You also want to make sure there's enough room around the crotch area - if it feels like you're sitting on the seam of the shorts, they're probably not comfortable enough for cycling! If you're looking for style, there are plenty of options available on the market today. Cycling clothing designers offer different cuts and lengths to try and accommodate different body types and tastes. Choosing the Right Cycling Jersey Cycling jerseys are one of the most important pieces of clothing you can wear. This is because they're designed to be tight-fitting, so they won't ride up when you're cycling and cause discomfort. There are a few different types of cycling jerseys available on the market, from long-sleeved tops to short-sleeved tops with a variety of colors and designs. But don't worry about choosing a jersey based on what's in fashion. Choose your jersey based on what will work best for you and your body type! Short sleeves might be more comfortable in hot weather, but if you have larger arms or broad shoulders, long sleeves might be better for you. Try out different types of cycling jerseys to find out which one works best for you. Choosing the Right Cycling Jacket Jacket breathability is essential for comfortable cycling. If your jacket doesn't breathe well, you'll end up feeling like a sweaty mess. That's why it pays to choose a material that will wick away sweat and keep you cool. Plus, there are plenty of other features that can make a cycling jacket more comfortable. Zippered pockets are a great idea if you plan on carrying anything with you while cycling, and they also allow you to store your belongings without fear of them falling out. Elastic waistbands help cover your stomach and back from the wind, which is especially important on colder and windier days. Whatever jacket you decide to buy, make sure it's made from a breathable material with pockets and an elastic waistband! Choosing the Right Eyewear and GlovesIf you'll be cycling in generally clear weather, sunglasses are a great idea. They keep the sun out of your eyes and make it easier for you to see traffic. They can also save you from insects and debris flying into your eyes. I recommend choosing glasses with polarized lenses as they work well in changing light conditions and with the added benefit that you can often spy fish swiming under the shimmering sea if you are cycling by the sea! Gloves are also a must-have for cycling. If you're going to ride any significant distance, it's worth investing in gloves with gel padding and breathable fabric. This will help protect your hands from wind and cold and reduce hand fatigue as well as making your hands more comfortable on the handlebars. Extra Tip: Don't forget your Helmet!You might not think of your helmet as an accessory, but it's an essential part of cycling safety. To find the perfect helmet, you'll need to find one that fits comfortably. It should sit level on your head without tilting forward or back. The straps should form a Y shape under your ears, and it should be snug but not tight. When you shake your head, the helmet shouldn't move. The best time to wear your helmet is before you get on the bike, not after! We do offer high quality, fully adjustable, EU certified helmets for rent in 2 sizes, if you would rather save space in your luggage!  ConclusionThe more comfortable your cycling clothes are, the more likely you are to enjoy your ride for longer.
Luckily, there are plenty of ways to be comfortable while riding. From the right type of material to the right type of cycling shorts, there are plenty of things you can do to feel even better while cycling. I hope this article helped, now get out there and ride!!  Photo by Ashley de Lotz on Unsplash Cycling is both a challenging and rewarding activity. A great pair of shoes can make the difference between a good and bad time on the bike. On the other hand, wearing uncomfortable or poorly-fitting shoes can result in pain and frustration with your ride. Choosing the best cycling shoes for you is an important part of your cycling experience. Check out this guide to learn how to find the best cycling shoes for your needs, what to look for when buying, and how to take care of them! What To Look For When Buying Cycling Shoes Photo by Jan Kopřiva on Unsplash Cycling shoes are a specialized type of footwear made specifically for cycling. They differ from other types of athletic shoes due to the rigors and requirements of riding a bike. For instance, cycling shoes have a stiff sole that's designed to pedal with efficiency. They also have a more rigid upper that keeps your foot in place to prevent foot slippage- especially if you're pedaling hard or going uphill. In order to find the best cycling shoe for your needs, you'll need to evaluate the different features each shoe has and make sure it aligns with your needs as a cyclist. For example, if you're looking for a pair of shoes for short rides on paved roads, you might want a lighter shoe without too many bells and whistles. On the other hand, if you plan on doing intense mountain biking or racing, then look into a shoe that is sturdy and supportive, with a sticky sole and reinforced toe cap. Upper material and design Photo by Blue Bird from Pexels When choosing a cycling shoe, it's important that you consider the upper material and design. Cycling shoes typically have uppers made from materials like synthetic leather, mesh, or textile. In general, textile can be less durable than leather but more breathable and also more water resistant. Designs vary as well. Some cyclists prefer shoes designed for mountain bike cycling with a rugged tread pattern on the soles to assist climbing. If you don't plan on participating in any off road activities, you can opt for sleek street style cycling shoes with rubber soles designed for higher speeds on pavement. There are so many great options out there! It can be hard to choose which one is right for you. Take your time shopping around until you find the perfect pair of cycling shoes that will work best for your needs and style! Fit and support The first thing to consider when selecting a cycling shoe is the fit. Shoes that don't have enough room in the toe box, or that pinch your toes, can lead to numbness and pain on your ride. Along with a good fit, there are a couple of other aspects of a cycling shoe you should pay close attention to:
Material and designThe first thing to consider when looking for cycling shoes is the material. Cycling shoes are made from a variety of materials including leather, nylon, mesh, and synthetic fabrics. Depending on your needs, you may be better suited to one type of shoe over another. For example, if you're prone to foot pain or have sensitive feet, synthetic fabrics can make more sense since they they can mold to your foot faster than natural other materials. The design also matters- some cyclists may prefer a clipless pedal while others will want a toe clip or strap. You'll need to decide what suits your needs best before buying cycling shoes!  Photo by Raoul Ortega on Unsplash How to Care for Your Cycling ShoesCycling shoes are a necessity for any cyclist. These high-performance shoes help you pedal with ease and comfort, so it's important to take care of them. When you're not cycling, shoes should be stored in a dry place. It's best to keep them off the floor and propped up on a shoe tree or a pair of sneakers. This will keep the insides from becoming dirty and smelly. If your shoes do become wet from rain or sweat, towel dry them before storing them to ensure they don't mold from sitting in dampness.  Photo by Velizar Ivanov on Unsplash The best way to clean your cycling shoes is by wiping them down with a damp cloth after each ride. You can also use a spray cleaner if you prefer, but make sure it doesn't contain alcohol because it could damage your materials. To remove excess dirt or mud, use some saddle soap on the outside of the shoe while avoiding contact with the inside, which can cause damage due to its abrasive properties. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly and wipe dry again with a soft towel to prevent water spots on the leather surface of your shoes. For persistent stains on parts that can't be removed with saddle soap, try using some baking soda on that area followed by an application ConclusionChoosing the right cycling shoes is critical to your comfort and performance. It’s important to only buy the best shoes for cycling to be comfortable, perform well, and last a long time. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to help you out.
Now that you know what to look for when buying cycling shoes, you can find the best ones for your needs with confidence. Keep these tips in mind when searching for your new cycling shoes and you’ll be on your way to finding the best pair. If you found these tips useful, do share them with a friend! |
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Cycling-Rentals is a division of Cycling through the Centuries. Registered Tour Operator RNAAT nº58/2006. Registered Travel Agent RNAVT nº 5035
Cycling-Rentals is a division of Cycling through the Centuries. Registered Tour Operator RNAAT nº58/2006. Registered Travel Agent RNAVT nº 5035