How to Dress Smart for Your E-biking Trips

Dressing is quite personal. But as always, there are guides and references for you to take into mind before making your own dressing style. 

 

First and foremost, is safety, especially for ebike driving while speed is generally higher than peddling. 

 

The most important gear is always for crucial protection during a fall or when collisions were to occur.

 

As laws in Australia state, you should wear a helmet while riding an e-bike. 

 

In terms of safety classifications, all helmet products have to pass industry-standardized tests before going to market. 

 

For e-biking, with its higher speeds compared to traditional cycling, some helmet manufacturers have introduced specific models; if you want to find a helmet that has been designed with e-biking in mind, look out for ones which meet the Dutch NTA 8776 certification, or incorporate MIPS (multi-directional impact protection system) technology.

 

How to select a helmet

To help you choose from the wide variety of helmets available, think about the area where you're riding (climate/terrain), what e-bike you're using (the speedier the bike, the more protection you'll need), and your riding purpose (commuting/leisure). 

 

As well as helmets specially designed for e-bike riders, off-road and urban helmets could also be suitable depending on terrain and how long you plan on being on your ride.

There are also helmets available with unique practical features such as cooling ventilation, brims to protect your face from the sun, and scratch-resistant outer layers that protect it if packed away in your bag. 

 

Some helmets can also help maximize your visibility outdoors, with features such as in-built lights and brighter colors that will help you be more visible on the roads.

 

Wardrobe essentials for daily commuting

Let's talk about dressing for general commuting.

As well as a helmet, high-visibility, reflective clothing is important to make sure you're easily visible at all times, especially during low visibility conditions on dark, gloomy days, so drivers and pedestrians cannot miss you! 

 

A high-vis vest or jacket is ideal, and you can also consider high-vis cycling trousers, backpacks, gloves, helmet covers and panniers to highlight your presence further. 

 

Appropriate footwear and gloves to provide a secure grip on pedals and handlebars is also recommended; we'll explore this topic further another day.

 

In terms of fabric, the best choice is lightweight and breathable, with long sleeves to keep you comfortable and covered in variable weather conditions and protected against windchill and sun. 

 

We also advise riders to always have a waterproof cycling jacket and trousers handy whatever the season.

 

Faster riding needs more protective clothing

 

Generally, the faster your speed, the greater protection you need, as the speed would impact the force on your body more in the event of an incident, therefore increasing the chance of injury. If you are planning on a super-fast ride, or want a more vigorous workout, then read on for advice on what kit to wear to give you extra protection.

 

Gear for a more intensive e-bike workout

 

If you're looking to push your endurance with less power assistance during your ride, then extra padding for your body will be needed for intense pedaling. 

 

Wearing padded clothes can protect from impact, and decrease the severity of injuries. Don't forget about decent hand gear; not only is it great for a secure grip, but can also protect your hand from cuts and abrasions if you were to fall.

 

Specialized clothing for longer rides

 

Long rides can take a toll on your riding comfort levels, but a selection of padded clothing can help you stay relaxed in the saddle. Padded gloves help you avoid getting blisters from the handlebars and can protect against vibration and discomfort. Padded shorts are widely known to protect against chafing, while knee and elbow pads and full-body protective clothing are also available for those opting for highly intense riding. 

 

Protective glasses are a good option for long rides out in the countryside, to prevent any dirt, debris or bugs from flying into your eyes and affecting your vision.

 

Staying cool on your workout

 

Select special cycling-friendly clothing that wicks moisture, drawing sweat away from your body, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout your ride. 

 

Lightweight, breathable tops are great at keeping you from overheating by allowing air circulation while keeping you comfortable in different weather conditions.

 

Foot and ankle protection

 

Choosing the right footwear is very important for e-bike control and maneuverability. 

 

Select closed-toe shoes with sturdy soles for decent support and traction to help you keep better control of your e-bike and lessen the chance of risking foot-related injuries. Loose-fitted or open-toed footwear is dangerous, as it could get caught in the pedals or affect your balance. 

 

During e-biking there may be times that your foot accidentally slips from the pedal while pushing for extra speed, causing cuts and bruises around the ankle, to avoid this ankle braces are a great external support to protect joints and ligaments from injury. 

 

Moisture-wicking socks are great for protecting against chafing from friction, and are made of breathable materials to wick away moisture while letting your feet breathe.

 

E-biking clothing for challenging weather conditions

 

We've covered general cycling attire, but your local climate is another thing you need to consider. Aside from a weatherproof jacket, other rainproof clothing tips include durable waterproof footwear or shoe covers for avoiding any slippy accidents. 

 

For colder weather make sure to be dressed warmly, not forgetting the extra windchill you may encounter. Long trousers will not only make you warmer, but also keep you covered from debris on the road. 

 

Merino clothing is great for keeping you snug during the chill, to keep your blood circulation pumping for your best performance and alertness on trips.