A CYCLIST-TO-WORK’S TO-DO LIST
Cycling to work is the new fad that’s taken the town over. Its benefits are many – especially when it comes to health, money, and time. But turning up for an early boardroom meeting in a pool of sweat and wrinkled clothes is a teeny bit off-putting. No? If you too have jumped onto the cycle-to-work bandwagon, there’s a bunch of things that you should keep in mind about your change of clothes.
Be Organized– This may seem pretty obvious, but the best of us have had bad clothes days. And for a cyclist who isn’t careful, every day will become one. Therefore:
Fold things carefully when you put them in your bag, so you don’t look like you’ve been to hell and back right at the start of your day. Two layers of plastic bags around your clothes will ensure your belongings don’t get wet in a downpour. And remember to keep a few hangers at work if you need to dry damp clothes! Plan ahead, so you don’t forget key items of clothing in a rush the following day.
For the ride, you’ve got to be comfortable. So make sure you start with a base layer. Wear a short-sleeved jersey, shorts, short-finger gloves and socks. Don’t forget socks!
2.Be Smart-You’re already carrying as little as possible (if you’re going by point number 1), so this should get easier as you go along.
Carry clothes that don’t take too much room. Or that don’t need too much work once worn. Factor comfort into your outfit, but account for your profession as well. For some, there’s only so much comfort that is acceptable. Store an extra pair of shoes at the office – that way you don’t have to lug a pair around every day. And always, always keep a spare pair of clothes at work.
While you’re cycling, dress for the weather. You can be fashionable with a pair of arm warmers too! Just make sure you aren’t wearing them with a sleeveless jersey. Pair them with full-finger gloves and thicker socks if the cold gets the better of you.
3.Be Flexible– If you decide that being minimalistic isn’t really the way for you, then your wardrobe really is your oyster! But if you want a commute that is easy on your shoulders and your clothes, follow points 1 and 2.
Most cyclists, both veterans and amateurs, feel that mixing and matching is a skill they’ve developed since taking to the bike. ‘Would a lighter, crease-free shirt go with these plaid trousers? Maybe not as well as the silk shirt, but that’s okay’. Your hair maintenance may have to take a back seat though. Unless you would like to have two blow dryers/ straighteners – one at home, and the other at work which isn’t recommended.
A balaclava is great (yes, the Arctic Monkey’s version too), but is never a substitute for a helmet. That’s one thing you cannot be flexible about.
If you keep at these steps, youll soon grow accustomed to them and theyll hardly be a chore
Cycling to work is the new fad that’s taken the town over. Its benefits are many – especially when it comes to health, money, and time. But turning up for an early boardroom meeting in a pool of sweat
