Stylish Cycling Gear for You and Your Bike

Cycling doesn’t have to be all nylons and spandex. Add the right accessories to your biking gear for a chic ride

Biking can put a serious strain on your personal style. You can’t bike in heels, have to wear a helmet, and risk some serious bad hair on arrival, not to mention the canvas shoes and panniers. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

This head-to-toe guide will ensure you look stylish in-ride and on arrival, whether you’re commuting to work or playing weekend warrior.

Start with a Cool Helmet

Who said bike helmets had to look like aliens invaded your headspace? Sure, helmets are a necessity for your safety (not to mention the law), but they don’t have to ressemble nesting creatures from another world.

Try to look at a bike helmet as another way to express your personality. There are so many varieties of helmets on the market, so you can have some fun with shape and colour. This turquoise helmet by Bern is sure to stand out on the bike paths. Similar styles are also available on Amazon.

Prevent Helmet Head

The biggest issue that comes with your funky new helmet is the inevitability of helmet hair, especially if you have curly hair. Try loosely braiding your hair before strapping on your helmet. Because curls only get bigger and crazier with wind, this will help keep those luscious locks in place until you get to the office.

Another option for all hair types is to wrap a silk scarf around your head to control frizz and protect your hair from the static-inducing helmet liner.

Fasten a Fashionable Bike Bag

When storage space is a must but a backpack is too big of a style-killer, try a handbag that attaches to your bike’s handlebars, like these Handlebar Handbags by Mercy and Ruth.

Store your wallet and spare shoes in the bag while you’re riding, then take the bag with you to use as a clutch. These bags come in some very cute patterns, styles and sizes, including one that attaches to your rear wheel.

Cover Your Seat with Personality

In B.C., spring doesn’t always mean sun. So before your ride, pack a seat cover that’ll keep your tush dry if the weather turns. Opt for a fun design, like this polka dot seat cover by SüLi. Not only will it keep you dry, but it will also make identifying your bicycle that much easier.

Lace up in Sleek Cycling Shoes

With your heels firmly stowed, you can safely wear more practical footwear during your ride. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style altogether. These cycling shoes, available at Mountain Equipment Co-Op, are slim, have a breathable mesh upper and a good sole for gripping.

Stash Your Supplies

Heading to a party? Don’t let your two-wheeled transport prevent you from bringing a bottle of wine. This bicycle wine rack from Oopsmark clips securely to your bike and is adjustable to fit different sized bottles. With olive oil treated leather, this little accessory is handy and beautiful.

Keep a Guide on Hand

Stay fashionable all year long with the Girl’s Guide to Life on Wheels: A Handbook for the Chic Cyclist. This book is will help you integrate cycling into your daily routine.

But if you’re more of an occasional cyclist, remember to brush up on some road safety tips before you head out for a ride.