Clothing

[marni]

performance bicycle makes some nice, not terribly expensive clothes.

www.performancebike.com

marni

[Zen]

The only reason you'd need a jersey is for the back pockets. Otherwise just look for a high-vis tee or tank.

You could also buy regular bike shorts and wear a skirt over them.

Depends on what kind of riding you're doing. There's no need to drop a load of cash. Keep an eye out here for second-hand clothing. I've gotten some really nice stuff here.

[Juliegoddess]

I'm with you, Zen! the only thing I spend a little on is my padded bottoms. I just CANNOT do the $85 jerseys, though. Who needs back pockets, really, when you have a little bag on your bike? For biking shirts, I go to good ole Wal-Mart and pick up the men's Dri-Star wicking shirts. They work for me, because I am plus-sized. But Wal-Mart's Danskin Now line for regular sizes is also GREAT, and those prices are amazing! I can wear their larger sizes, too...I'm not a huge plus size.

[ColoKate]

I bought padded shorts and capris but have so far made do with the layers I've worn all winter snowboarding - a dri-fit top and thin zip-up shirts made of either SmartWool, polypro or coconut fibers - just depends on the temp. My fleece vest works great over top but I am on the hunt for a windbreaker and an ear band.

Check Sierra Trading Post online for the cheapest gear!

[ummbnb]

E-Bay and thrift stores are my favs for cycling clothing which I wear on rides where my goal is a workout. For commuting and around town I wear whatever I'm wearing.

I am fortunate to have kickass thrift stores all over though. They aren't always an option for everyone.

[chicagogal]

OK, so I guess I'm different than a lot of the posters above. First of all, I LOVE the back pockets that come with cycling jerseys. Yes, you can stick a cell phone in a saddle bag, but what about reaching for a snack while on a ride? Stick some easy to eat nutrition in a back pocket and it is easily accessible whenever you need/want it. I am also pretty picky about my cycling jerseys and so will spend a little extra to get one that fits really well. I don't like the ones with elastic on the bottom as they always tend to ride up on me (someone please pass that info to the shop I race for, as I despise the jerseys that comes with our team kit!!). Also, I like them to be snug enough that they don't move around, like slip from side to side, when there is stuff in the pockets.

[mom_on_bike]

This has been very helpful, everyone!