Love this Mike. Really resonates with me. A decade ago I started commuting and quickly got into long distance touring. I grew up playing lots of different sports and although I didn't ride bikes through my teenage years I was taught that having the right kit was important. So lycra and clipless shoes it was. The funny part is that wasn't even how I wanted to look—I used to carry jeans and casual shoes on the bike with me to change into—it's more just that I didn't think a proper cyclists could dress any other way.
It's took a while to get there but these days I ride almost exclusively in work boots, work shorts and old t-shirts. For longer rides merino (boxers, socks, shirts) make a difference and for the most part I don't feel any less comfortable on the bike. But I damn sure feel more comfortable off it. It's far nicer to walk into the pub after a 100 mile ride and not gain any attention. Without the full kit I feel like less of a "cyclist" and more of a person with a bike.
Feb. 24, 2023, 2:31 a.m. - bushtrucker
Love this Mike. Really resonates with me. A decade ago I started commuting and quickly got into long distance touring. I grew up playing lots of different sports and although I didn't ride bikes through my teenage years I was taught that having the right kit was important. So lycra and clipless shoes it was. The funny part is that wasn't even how I wanted to look—I used to carry jeans and casual shoes on the bike with me to change into—it's more just that I didn't think a proper cyclists could dress any other way. It's took a while to get there but these days I ride almost exclusively in work boots, work shorts and old t-shirts. For longer rides merino (boxers, socks, shirts) make a difference and for the most part I don't feel any less comfortable on the bike. But I damn sure feel more comfortable off it. It's far nicer to walk into the pub after a 100 mile ride and not gain any attention. Without the full kit I feel like less of a "cyclist" and more of a person with a bike.