Rolling in comfort (and style) is no more important than when you’re tackling a 110km, or especially, a 170km Snowy Classic ride. The difference between torture and euphoria is often a fine line on the bike. It’s a pernicious line you try not to cross on long rides and the first step in ensuring comfort on the bike is the right kit and the right fit.
Black Sheep Cycling has been creating and designing cycling garments merging the best of design and technology since 2014. To change an industry that, by their admission, had become tired, boring and self-congratulatory. Their dream was to do things differently with comfort, style and inclusivity at the top of the agenda. To embrace everyone. To break down the stigmas that exist in the sport we all love and invite all-comers from all corners of the world to experience the joy of riding regardless of age, ability, gender or race.
We spoke with the Black Sheep design team to pick their brains and come up with the best kit and comfort recommendations for a long day in the saddle:
- The golden rule: ‘Nothing new on race day,’ applies to both nutrition and importantly kit too. While it might be tempting to order a special new kit for the day, make sure you test it first on a long training ride to ensure nothing unexpected niggles away at you on the day. Whether it’s being too warm or not protected enough from the rays.
- Choose a pair of bibs with a chamois designed specifically for 4+ hours of riding. We recommend our new Essential TEAM Bibs featuring our new Greenline High-Density Chamois that promises to love you tenderly. And keep you riding all day long.
- Choose a jersey to suit the elements – a long day in the sun means choosing a jersey that is firm so its moisture-wicking properties are put to work but not too light that the UV rating is too low. However, given the Snowy Classic average max temperature is 15.7°C with a low of 3.3°C we’d recommend wearing enough light layers to stay warm and dry (it’s been known to rain now and then).
- Layer up. Your riding style will determine how many layers you will need on a cool race day. Having a base layer, arm warmers, gilet, and a waterproof or resistant jacket like our Elements Micro Jacket will hold you in good stead, especially if you get cold easily and want some protection from the elements.
- Finally a pair of lightweight, moisture-wicking socks to keep feet cool and dry and with medium compression and a cushioned footbed to absorb impact. Happy feet, happy riding.
About Black Sheep:
Black Sheep is a small and passionate crew, devoted to the continual pursuit of creating and designing the world’s most unique cycling apparel. An Australian success story with global appeal and products crafted for everyone. Everywhere.
au.blacksheepcycling.cc
