A Cyclist's Guide To Building The Perfect Kit

Easily one of my all-time favorites, the Team Bib Evo from Melbourne-based MAAP is an elite pair of bib shorts that’s performance orientated without sacrificing comfort. Before trying these, a friend described MAAP’s bibs to me as being “low bulk, high density”––meaning they’re exceptionally lightweight but still supportive where it matters (the chamois, primarily). MAAP sources their chamois from Italian-based Elastic Interface, and uses a new “3D Thermo Moulded multi-layer chamois” designed with a male-specific cut. Notably, the bibs also come in a range of beautiful neutrals and seasonal colors to add a bit of character to your kit. In a world where many cycling brands are trying to be the loudest in the room, MAAP stands out by maintaining a quiet class and elegance.

If there’s one cycling brand that has managed to cross over from niche to mainstream, it’s Rapha. Like many amateur cyclists, I too started my journey with a pair of Core Bib Shorts from the brand many years ago. They're the Nike Pegasus of cycling bibs––a tried-and-true classic, and for good reason. These bibs strike the perfect balance between comfort, performance, and value. With a fit that's close but still more relaxed than other aero-focused alternatives, they’re ideal for riders who aren't obsessed with chasing every last watt. Whether you're out for a Saturday cruise or a few loops around the park, these bibs are a solid choice for those who want to enjoy the ride without feeling overly tight or race-ready.

If you’re looking to build a kit with a second skin feeling, the Mechanism Pro Bibs from Copenhagen-based Pas Normal Studios should be your base. The Mechanism Pro series is an evolution of the brand’s Mechanism collection, previously the brand’s most premium kit. I found the Mechanism Pro Bibs to be less tight and restrictive compared to their popular Mechanism sibling––a testament to the brand’s new four-way stretch woven fabric and more supportive ‘zoned’ compression that was developed for the Pro collection. Upon my first wear, it was immediately evident the shorts are impressively lightweight with a silky feel against the skin. They’re focused on speed, but don’t compromise comfort unlike many other aerodynamic race-day bibs. Yes, PNS is exceptionally expensive––most “good” cycling gear is. But if you’re building a kit to chase after every incremental watt, the Mechanism Pro Bibs make a compelling case for their cost.

In a world where high-quality cycling apparel often comes with eye-watering price tags, The Black Bibs offers a refreshing alternative. Their namesake product, The Black Bib, is a remarkably comfortable option priced at just $40––a far cry from the $200+ bibs many cyclists are accustomed to. The Black Bibs Ultimate, their upgraded model, comes in at double the price ($80) but still represents incredible value. Cyclists I’ve spoken to tend to agree: "Yes, they're great, but you get what you pay for." If you're used to high-end bibs, you may notice some differences––the fabric can feel less forgiving and breathable, and the chamois may be a bit wider depending on your body type. That said, the Black Bibs Ultimate offers a noticeable improvement in comfort and performance while remaining an exceptional deal. I also appreciate the minimalist, unbranded design, making them easy to pair with any jersey for a clean, versatile look.

Le Col exudes a sense of class, in part due to its association with some of cycling's most celebrated athletes, including Giro d’Italia winner Jai Hindley and Tour de France champion Sir Bradley Wiggins. The brand’s focus is more on the pro than the novice, which is why I recommend their Pro collection over their standard Sport line. The Pro Lightweight Jersey, for instance, is meticulously designed to deliver both comfort and speed, whether you're riding through summer heat or tackling intense training sessions. The sleeves are on the longer side, which I personally prefer, and the micromesh fabric offers outstanding breathability—though the neckline can feel a bit high at times. Le Col earns trust with their commitment to using data gathered from extensive wind tunnel testing and feedback from World Tour riders. While their color selection is more limited compared to some competitors, I appreciate the brand’s more minimalist approach to jersey branding.

As the name suggests, this is a jersey that’s designed for all-day comfort. Updated this year with an improved fit and sustainable recycled materials, the All Day Jersey is a standout piece from Attaquer for cyclists of all levels. The sleeves are made of an ultra-lightweight mesh with a raglan cut, allowing for a very versatile fit over your shoulders and down the arm. The body and back feature a more supportive fabric, providing a secure feel for both the fit and the jersey's pockets. The cut was updated this year with a shorter zipper and front for less pouching when you’re in the saddle––but fear not, its length is still long enough to cover your belly button when you dismount to grab a donut (or four). For the price, this jersey is the perfect mid-tier offering for those looking for a premium fit without all the overly-optimized aero jargon.

The Escapism Light Jersey is best described as a road jersey designed for the rough and tumble of gravel. Crafted for warm weather and high-intensity efforts, it features a lightweight, semi-mesh fabric that's noticeably cool to the touch. The ripstop pattern, which is made from a durable grid of reinforced threads, helps make the jersey more resistant to abrasions from rough terrain, tree branches, or unfortunate spills. (It also makes for a unique and appealing aesthetic.) Elsewhere, it meets all the criteria for an ideal cycling top: traditional back three pockets with an additional zippered one for valuables, silicone grippers around the hem, and smooth YKK Vislon front zipper. Pas has expertly translated their experience designing top-tier road kits into a piece that's perfectly suited for off-road and gravel adventures. If you like to wander, this jersey belongs in your kit.

More known for their bikes than their apparel, Specialized also makes a stellar kit with their Prime series. This jersey is made from an optimized mix of nylon and elastane that feels smooth and luxurious against your skin while also having an attractive matte finish. The main body fabric is perfectly weighted for spring and fall rides, with a lightweight stretch mesh under the arms and at the bottom hem. Specialized notes that the jersey has cooling properties––it is indeed cool-to-the-touch––but I’d likely opt for something slightly lighter weight for peak summer rides. The color palette of the Prime series is another highlight. If you’re after a jersey with understated elegance rather than bold branding, this is the one. Pair it with the matching Prime Bib Shorts and I wouldn’t question your taste.

Yes, I know this is technically a thermal long sleeve, but it’s become my go-to for winter rides. The ultra-soft Italian fabric traps body heat while efficiently wicking away moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable. The low-profile collar gives it a classic look, and the brushed fleece lining feels incredibly soft against your skin. It’s also treated with a water-repellent DWR coating to help keep light moisture out. Though I admittedly haven’t tested as many long sleeve jerseys as I have short sleeves, I haven’t needed to because this one provides everything you could ask for. The Evade is perfect for temperatures in the 35-50°F range, and I’ve found it versatile enough to pair with a base layer underneath or a vest on top for extra warmth on chillier days. That said, if the wind is blowing strong, I’d still reach for a proper jacket for better protection.

This is a jacket tailor-made for those who love riding in the rain. Wet weather conditions are only fun when you’re equipped with the proper gear, and the GoreTex Rain Jacket from Rapha is the gold standard in wet weather readiness. Crafted from a lightweight, 3-layer Black Diamond certified GoreTex fabric (the same grade GoreTex claims is "guaranteed to keep you dry"), this jacket is fully waterproof, breathable, and windproof, with no PFAS chemicals in its treatment. The water beads off just like you’d see on an Arc'teryx shell. Plus, this year’s model adds a pocket, a feature that was highly requested after last year’s design. Price aside, you should have no reservations about what you’re getting out of this jacket. You won’t be canceling on your group rides because of the weather forecast anymore.

Not quite a long sleeve, and not quite a rain shell, the Pedla Essentials Jacket is the ideal choice for those looking for a little weather protection and a lot of value. It’s designed to be worn over your jersey, providing just the right amount of shield against light wind, drizzle, and chill, without the bulk of a heavy jacket. When your body temperature starts to rise, the jacket is easy to stow away in your jersey pack or pannier (that’s French for the bags that hook onto your bike), keeping it conveniently out of the way. As far as jackets go, it’s exceptionally breathable, with a mesh back and underarm panels for added ventilation to ensure you stay comfortable even when you're pushing hard or riding in humid conditions. For extra practicality, the jacket includes a large zipped pocket at the back, perfect for stashing energy bars, gels, or other small essentials you might need on the go.

You cannot be a cyclist without a pair of performance sunglasses that your partner sees you in and says, “oh no.” Unfortunately, they really do make your ride more pleasant, even if they make you look a little bit insane. There are plenty of brands that make them, including Oakley which started the trend, though I’ve found my favorites to come from Rapha. The super lightweight and frameless Letras glasses utilize the brand’s freeform shield lens to extend your field of vision and offer increased protection from UV rays, road spray, and debris. You can also choose between multiple lens tint options for the type of light conditions you’re riding in (for instance, mirror for exceptionally bright days or yellow for low light training).

It used to be that only pros tracked their power output, but over the last decade power meters have become increasingly popular for the recreational cyclist, making it easy to measure effort, track training load, and monitor fitness progress. I’ve relied on pedal-based power meters ever since I got into the sport, and the Garmin Rally pedals have been the best I’ve come across. With single- and dual-sensing options, the Garmin Rally pedals are exceptionally precise, versatile, and easy to swap between bikes. The dual-sensing version is particularly useful, providing left/right power balance, which helps identify and correct any imbalances in your pedaling technique. While they are on the pricier side, the accuracy and reliability make them a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about tracking their performance. The Rally pedals also sync seamlessly with Garmin devices, which brings me to my next recommendation…

A bike computer is to a cyclist what a watch is to a runner. Sure, you can go out and run a few miles without one, but if you care at all about your pace, heart rate, lap times, or anything of the sort, you’ll need a gadget companion. Garmin’s Edge series of bike computers is the best out there, especially if you’re already in the Garmin ecosystem (guilty). These computers can connect to a range of devices on your body (like a heart rate monitor) and bike (like your pedals) to give you valuable insights into your real-time cycling dynamics and post-ride analyses. Looking at your data while you ride might seem a little overkill to the unacquainted––“can’t you just go out and ride a bike like a normal person?”––but not only does it help you to track your improvements over time, it also allows you to gamify your ride to have some fun while you’re out there. Plus, if you ever deviate from your route for a little adventure, the Edge 840 is smart enough to guide you back home.

As with anything in cycling, safety is always the priority. A bike helmet is non-negotiable when you go out for a ride, and the Omne Air MIPS helmet from POC has been my go-to for years. It features the industry-leading MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) technology, providing enhanced protection against rotational forces in the event of a crash. It's lightweight and comfortable, with ample ventilation to help keep you cool on long rides or warmer days, and the fit is easily adjustable thanks to the dial-fit system. It also has a fairly neutral, if not race-inspired, design and comes in a healthy range of colors to match to your kit.