Best cycling gear and accessories for style at speed

The high fever of fixed-gear fanaticism and steel-frame fetishism may be long passed but more and more of us are still taking to two wheels. Cities across the world have closed roads to cars and installed cycle lanes, making bicycling increasingly safe and accessible. We are still of the opinion, though, that if you jump on a saddle, you should look like you mean it and dress for the occasion in the best cycling gear.

Cycling gear should have a hi-vis, form-fitting appeal all of its own and our suggested kit shifts up a gear visually from the much favoured but monotonous – and, safety-wise counter-intuitive – all black approach. Our new favourite cycling tops include the eye-popping ‘Spectrum’ jersey from Universal Colours, made entirely from post-consumer plastic bottles while still offering all the stretchy breathability you need on a steep uphill climb or determined whizz to the office (should you still do that).

Get on your bike with the best cycling gear and accessories

Paul Smith – who created a tandem bike with Mercian for Wallpaper Handmade X – was of course a committed cyclist long before it was frightfully au courant, and his range of cycling gear includes a natty number (pictured top) made in recycled polyester, and featuring a dazzling band of buzzing colour. From Japanese brand Pedaled, we’ve hit on the ‘Marai’ women’s jersey, ideal for when the temperature drops and made in Bluesign-approved sustainable materials. And we’re big fans of the punchy graphics and technical but sustainable fabrics of Melbourne-based Maap.

Our suggested sunglasses are from Oakley, designed for riders at this year’s Tokyo Olympics. Shoe-wise, we’re going for Fizik’s ‘Vento Infinito Carbon 2’ with its pleasingly elegant micro-adjustable fit system. And our helmet of choice is ‘Valegro WGII’ from cult-favourite Kask. Saddle up and be safe.