Textile accessories for road cyclists

The cyclist's cap, a legacy from the peloton

Before helmets became mandatory in professional racing in 2003, the cotton cap with a small peak was the uniform of the peloton: it was turned inside out on climbs and the peak was lowered against the sun or rain. The Gist caps uphold this legacy with models in the colours of legendary teams, Bianchi during Fausto Coppi's time, the rainbow jersey of Eddy Merckx, or the magenta of T-Mobile, as well as others with humorous patterns. Thin and without thick seams, the cap can be worn under the helmet or on its own once the ride is over.

The rest of the outfit

Road gear also includes:

• Road Helmets.
• Gloves.
• Jerseys.
• Jackets.
• Socks.
• Shoe Covers.
• Shorts.

All the gear is gathered on the road page.

Beanie, headband or balaclava depending on the temperature

Under the helmet, we adjust coverage according to the thermometer. The headband, like that of Giro or the Cassons from VAUDE, protects the ears and forehead in cool weather while allowing the top of the head to breathe. When the mercury drops, the thin beanie, VAUDE or Scott, covers the whole head without changing the fit. In extreme cold, the balaclava wraps the head and neck: the Gist Thermodress leaves the face exposed with a goggle-like opening, while the VAUDE Warm balaclava can be pulled up over the chin. In all cases, the material remains thin so the helmet retains its fit.

Neck gaiter and neck protector against the wind

The neck and nape are directly affected by the relative wind, which chills significantly on descents. The tubular neck gaiter P2R can be worn in multiple ways: as a collar, pulled up over the nose, as a headband or as a beanie under the helmet. The neck protector Wind X-treme covers the back of the head and the upper neck, where the collar ends. In summer, the Wind X-treme Coolcap and the Craft Core Essence, made from lightweight fabric, absorb sweat from the forehead before it drips into the eyes. All these accessories are machine washable at thirty degrees, without fabric softener, to preserve the technical fibers.

Good deals

Great bargains can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and the items shipped within 24 hours are prepared and dispatched in 24 hours. The key events of the year follow a stable order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, the holiday season, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, then the summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

How do you wear a cap under a bike helmet?

Place it flat on your head, peak facing forward, then adjust the helmet's dial. It should not lift the helmet or push it backwards; if it does, loosen the adjustment slightly before setting off.

Does a balaclava get too hot on climbs?

It can, hence the benefit of thin and breathable models. On a long climb, you can lower the lower part under the chin to release heat, then pull it up at the top, just before starting the descent.

What size should I choose for a cyclist's cap?

Most caps come in a one-size-fits-all, with an elastic band at the back that adapts to common head sizes. The thin fabric hugs the head without creating bulk under the helmet.

Can a neck gaiter replace ear warmers?

Yes, pulled up on the head and folded as a headband, it covers the ears in cool weather. In very cold conditions, a dedicated beanie is more effective, but the neck gaiter offers a versatile solution that fits in a pocket.

What accessory should I wear under the helmet when it rains?

A cap with a peak stops drops before they fall in front of your eyes. In cold and wet weather, a windproof fabric beanie keeps the head warm even when wet and dries quickly after the ride.