Urban Cyclist Gear
The urban cycling gear page outfits the everyday cyclist, someone who pedals to work without looking like a racer: shoes adidas Velosamba compatible with cleats, waterproof or reflective jackets Elite Lab, breathable jerseys Dare 2B, urban helmets, gloves and socks. Technical pieces that can also be worn once the bike is parked.
To see, be seen and arrive at the office dry: the gear for daily commutes.
Velosamba: the city shoe compatible with cleats
The Velosamba from adidas takes the silhouette of the Samba, originally created for football, and turns it into an urban cycling shoe. Beneath the rubber sole, there's a housing for a two-hole cleat of the SPD type, recessed so you can walk without clattering on the office floor. A rigid plate under the forefoot transmits the effort to the pedal, while the heel remains soft for walking. An elastic loop keeps the laces away from the chain. The leather versions and the Cold.Rdy, designed for cold weather, share this sole: you can also wear them with flat pedals, without installing a cleat, while still maintaining the necessary stiffness for pedaling.
Urban rain jacket: waterproof and breathable
For a daily commute, the jacket needs to keep out the rain without turning the cyclist into a pressure cooker. A waterproof jacket worthy of the name combines a membrane that blocks water but lets sweat vapour escape, along with taped seams. At Elite Lab, the extended cut at the back protects against spray from the rear wheel, and the sleeves cover the wrists when the arms are stretched towards the handlebars. The lightweight version rolls into a bag during the first sunny spell; the thermal version, lined, replaces the coat when the temperature drops. The women's models, more fitted, avoid the sail effect that slows you down and makes the jacket flutter in the wind.
Be seen in the city: colours and reflective elements
In daylight, fluorescent yellow or orange colours stand out best in traffic; at night, only reflective materials send light from headlights back to drivers. The sleeveless reflective jacket from Elite Lab goes over any work attire. The bands placed at the ankles, wrists, or on the back are more noticeable in motion than a stationary flat surface. Outside urban areas, at night, or when visibility is poor, a certified reflective vest has been mandatory for all cyclists since 2008; in the city, it remains highly recommended from dusk onwards, especially in the rain.
The selection
Urban gear is organised by type:
- Urban Helmets.
- Jackets.
- Reflective Accessories.
- Jerseys.
- Trousers.
- Shorts.
- Gloves.
- Socks.
- Textile Accessories.
Other equipment, road, mountain bike, BMX, electronic, nutrition, protection, accessories, can be found on the equipment page.
Helmet, gloves, and socks for urban cyclists
The urban helmet differs from a road helmet with a more enveloping shell, fewer vents, and often a short visor or integrated rear light: it fits well with a coat. It must meet the European standard EN 1078, the same as for all bike helmets. Windproof gloves protect the hands, which are stationary on the handlebars and exposed to wind at speed, and help soften a fall onto the palms. Technical socks, which dry quickly and don’t slip in the shoe, prevent arriving at the office with wet feet. With a light jacket, these accessories complete an outfit that is visible to motorists.
Frequently asked questions
Which helmet should I choose for cycling in the city?
Choose it based on your head circumference, measured above the eyebrows, then check that it doesn’t move once the dial is tightened. A model with integrated lighting or in bright colours adds visibility, and the MIPS system limits the effects of a rotational impact.
What to wear to cycle to work without sweating?
Dress lighter than you would on foot, as the effort warms you up quickly, with a breathable base layer instead of cotton. A technical zip jersey lets heat escape in summer, and a change of clothes left at the office takes care of the rest.
Are there urban cycling jackets for women?
Yes, Elite Lab jackets come in a women’s cut, more fitted at the waist and narrower at the shoulders, available in waterproof, thermal, or windproof versions. The Dare 2B jerseys also come in women's models, fitting without being restrictive.
How do you maintain a waterproof cycling jacket?
Wash it at a low temperature with a gentle liquid detergent, without fabric softener that can clog the pores of the membrane. When water no longer beads, a low-heat tumble dry or a water-repellent treatment can reactivate the outer coating.
Do I need gloves to cycle in the city in summer?
Light gloves are not essential, but they protect the palms in case of a fall, a natural reflex to soften the impact, and improve grip on sweaty handlebars. Models with a breathable fabric back can be forgotten during short trips.
