I should start a label category of "things I don't understand." That would include Spandex garments worn by bicyclists. I understand that for performance athletes (Olympics, Tour de France) the minimizing of wind resistance is crucial. But for the recreational cyclist who is out for an afternoon of exercise, why not wear baggy clothes to increase resistance and get the same exercise in a shorter period of time? Why (top photo) wear resistance-minimizing clothes and then add a parachute?
There apparently is a "chafing" aspect, but that wouldn't apply to the Spandex tops worn with the shorts. Maybe it's a perspiration-wicking thing. But I suspect it's a marketing thing... Doesn't matter.
(photo credit here, with additional discussion)
It's a perspiration/moisture-wicking thing and heat regulation thing.
ReplyDeletefor bicyclists they are used of course for the least wind resistance however I have read about the compression factor (like compression stockings) to promote blood circulation. The marketing is whats printed ON the outfits.
ReplyDeleteClearly you don't ride. :)
ReplyDeleteThe spandex shorts are tight to prevent chaffing. There is padding in the crotch/seat to cut down on pain from the seat, but loose shorts just wad up in the crotch and get soaked in sweat and then your thighs, butt and groin end up with huge raw spots.
The tight shirt allows for wicking, but also have big pickets in the back for water, cliff bars, etc. And when I'm training on the weekends for my tris doing a hard brick, I certainly don't want to expend any energy getting though a century ride with my shirt flapping in the breeze.
there is nothing about that material that could possibly justify the pain inflicted on people like me who end up seeing pictures like that one...ugh
ReplyDeleteShorts getting wadded up in your crotch is no fun for a bike rider. Additionally, when a tight shirt gets moist from sweat, because the moisture is still next to your skin the cooling effect from the wind is significant. A shirt flapping in the wind can also make it dangerous to try and reach your water bottle while riding.
ReplyDeleteAs other noted, in shorts the spandex prevent chafing. In a 30 mile bike ride (not unreasonable for a weekend warrior), your legs go around 11,000 times or so. Imagine rubbing any material against your skin 15,000 times in a couple hours. Ouch.
ReplyDeleteAs for jerseys -- some wear them tighter than others. Keep in mind that on flat ground, 90% of your energy is spent fighting the wind. Even though I'm not racing anyone, it is more fun to go faster for a given amount of energy. Likewise, I hate headwinds, even though it really just means more exercise.