Why Proper Jerseys Make Cycling Safer and More Fun for Kids

Perhaps even more so than with regular adult cycling, safety is paramount for children on bicycles. Alongside the prerequisite helmet (bangs and bumps are going to happen), proper cycling attire in the form of a quality jersey can make a big difference to the safety and enjoyment your kid(s) can gain from being on their two-wheeler.

Well, the answer to this question depends on how old your child is and how seriously they’re taking their cycling. Pootling around the park probably doesn’t require much beyond a helmet, but if they catch the cycling bug and want to go longer distances or get muddy on a mountain bike the answer is yes. Proper gear improves comfort, safety, and visibility. My seven-year-old is perfectly happy cycling in whatever clothes she happens to be wearing, but when she gets more into the pursuit, I’ll be looking into proper customized cycling gear to keep her safe and sound.

It goes without saying that visibility is crucial for any cyclist, whether they are on the road or in the park, for the safety of the rider and pedestrians. Strong, vibrant colors, such as yellow or orange, work best, and you should ensure that the jersey has reflective bands on it so that lights from cars pick it up if cycling on the road. Don’t forget, you can find services to design your own cycling jerseys online.

Children should always be accompanied on the road by a responsible adult, also in hi-viz gear, to allow cars to safely pass, and be aware of them if they are about to pull out or make a manoeuvre. Helmets, gloves, and of course, bikes, should also be fitted with lights and reflective materials to ensure the safest possible conditions for riding.

Another primary concern when it comes to kids’ cycling gear is comfort. Riding a bike is a sweaty pursuit, so it’s important to have a designed jersey that’s made from breathable material. If you’re likely to be cycling outdoors in changeable conditions, then wind and rainproof jerseys make all the difference and will keep the little ones in the saddle for longer. Stretchable fabrics are important, as they provide freedom of movement without being too tight or too loose. Waistbands and cuffs should be adjustable as well, to ensure a snug fit during long rides.

On hot days or during more rigorous rides, kids are going to work up a sweat, so it’s important to keep them cool for full enjoyment of their two-wheeled adventures. This is where wicking clothing comes into play — it’s designed to keep sweat away from the children's bodies, keeping them dry and comfortable.

The other big factor to take into account is layering. It’s much more effective to wear layers than it is to wear one heavy jersey, so they can be taken off or put on according to conditions. And for unpredictable weather (or predictable, depending on where you happen to live), rain and windproof outer layers are a must. This way, your kids will remain dry, warm, comfortable, and able to enjoy their ride.

Cycling clubs are ten a penny these days, for adults and kids alike. Many have their own custom-designed and made jerseys and other gear, so it’s important to invest so that your child feels part of the team. Having team jerseys really adds to the sense of unity and loyalty that teams need, especially if they’re competing in events. Check out Google or at your local cycling store for information about clubs that accept kids.

Anyone needs to have the right gear for cycling. But for kids to sustain their enjoyment in the sport, keeping them dry, comfortable, and above all, safe, is the best way to do it. So get them kitted out right, and you’re halfway there.

Image credits Title image: pexels / Heber Vazquez; Image 2: Unsplash / Maria Ionova; Image 3: Owayo; Image 4: Owayo; Image 5: pexels / Trường Nguyễn Thanh