Shopping For Clothing

[Bethany1]

I need some clothing now that it's getting colder. My problem is that most shops have men in them and they have no clue on how something should fit for a woman. I know it's uncomfortable for them as it is for me from the looks on their faces when I ask how something should fit.

I'm also overwhelmed by all that is out there online and the lack of what's in the stores for women. Then there is the issue of quality. I bought a pair of cycling shorts that were 100 dollars and my first time using them I ripped a small hole in them when I got up off the front porch. I felt sick. I hand sewed the hole shut and figured no one was going to see anything over the jersey anyway. I now use mountain bike shorts so I can sit down without ruining my clothes.

I thought by now I'd be over feeling self-conscious in cycling clothing, but I'm not. Given my experience with the shorts, do they make long pants that don't get caught in the chain so I can sit down if needed and not worry about ripping holes? I get the Lycra thing. They just don't hold up if you need to sit down.

[Crankin]

I've never had shorts rip from sitting. It is possible that you got just a defective pair.
Cold weather gear is very individual, depending on your tolerance for cold and your sweat rate! Most people go for layers on the top. As far as bottoms, I use regular cycling shorts under thermal running tights, of which I have 2 different weights. I also have a pair of knickers as well as knee warmers. Wool socks of varying thickness, toe covers, booties, or winter cycling shoes. I have everything from arm warmers to wear with short sleeved jerseys, regular long sleeved jerseys, thermal LS jerseys of varying weights, a wind jacket, and a very thin, but windproof and warm Gore cycling jacket for winter, with pit zips. Oh, and base layers, both LS and sleeveless, wool and regular wicking to wear under any jersey for added core warmth. Skull caps of varying thickness and a balaclava, which I hardly ever use.

[redrhodie]

You can always shop right here, at our hosts' site! TE has everything you need, and you can try it all on at home. Some soft lighting makes a big difference. They're also experts in how things fit, so you can call customer service and ask, or just read the reviews.

[Bethany1]

I went to another LBS and found a guy that was SO amazingly helpful. He showed me the clothing and explained what everything was for and what works for Nebraska weather. He was honest after I tried on several sizes both in men's and women's jackets and said that it was okay that none of them fit. XL in Pearl Izumi women's doesn't fit me and neither did any of the men's. Dang wide hips..LOL. I'm so glad he didn't lie to make a sale.

I came home with Pearl Izumi arm and leg warmers that are really nice and gives me more options until I find what I want.

Now that I've tried on some things and have a better idea of what I like, shopping online will be easier.

[Jen12]

Do you have an REI near you? They tend to have a pretty large staff and I've found them helpful.

[tulip]

I gotta second Red's suggestion to check out Team Estrogen-- just click the upper left corner of this page. Their customer service is great and the staff is very knowledgeable. They have an excellent selection of women's clothing for all sizes. Plus, they host this site. I cringe when people on TE forums suggest online shopping and don't bother to mention TE.