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Cycling Attire Appropriate cycling attire is required for all competitors. Every sport has specialized clothing, and cycling is no exception. A coach can help riders understand the need for proper clothing and know how to dress to keep healthy. Discuss the importance of wearing properly fitted clothing, along with the advantages and disadvantages of certain types of clothing worn during training and competitions. For example, long-pant jeans or blue jean shorts are not proper cycling attire for any event. Explain that athletes cannot perform their best while wearing jeans that restrict their movement. Take athletes to local cycling events or watch cycling videos to point out the attire being worn. You should set the example, by wearing appropriate attire to training and competitions. Establishing a partnership with one of the bicycle retailers in your community can help your program. Visit several area shops to determine who can best assist your program. You are not looking for "sponsorship," but a reliable shop that will help your athletes the most. The shop does not have to be the biggest in town, but it needs to have staff who will best understand the needs of Special Olympics athletes. Some shops may be able to offer reduced prices, but remember, business people need to charge for their services. Be sure to check with Special Olympics, Inc., to determine availability of group discount programs. In addition, several mail order catalogs offer discounted prices on cycling apparel and equipment.   Helmets Helmets must meet the safety standards of the Governing Body for cycling in the host country. The fit of a helmet is extremely important. Loose helmets can obstruct vision and will fail to protect during a fall, while helmets that are too small will result in a literal headache to the rider. The front edge of the helmet should rest just above the eyebrows. Straps should be secure enough to prevent the helmet from sliding back from the forehead during an impact. The front and back strap intersections should fit just below the ears. Check with the manufacturer's instructions. Finally, helmets should provide ventilation slots on the front, sides, top and back of the shell. Helmets that have been involved in a collision involving a blow to the head should be inspected and replaced if necessary.   Shirts/Jerseys Shirts or jerseys with sleeves must cover the shoulders and should provide comfort and allow freedom of movement in the shoulder and back areas. T-shirts are suitable if tucked in. Remember, loose clothing can get caught in the bicycle's moving parts or saddle (seat). Cycling jerseys provide protection from the elements and pockets for carrying identification, keys and food; the bright colored fabric promotes visibility.   Shorts Lycra stretch shorts provide upper leg support, have a padded seat for added comfort and reduced chafing, and allow for freedom of movement in legs and hips. Cycling shorts are designed to be worn without undergarments. Properly fitted mid-thigh shorts are acceptable if cycling shorts are not available. Whether your riders choose to wear Lycra or other shorts, washing the shorts after every training session is a must for good hygiene.   Socks Cyclists should wear socks, preferably socks covering the ankle.   Shoes Although running shoes will work, an athlete serious about cycling will want to invest in a pair of cycling shoes. The stiff soles and cleats will provide efficiency to the athlete's pedal stroke. The shoes should fit comfortably without binding or restricting circulation. The rider should try shoes on with the same type of sock used for riding. A road shoe may be efficient (due to their stiffness and lightweight) but a Mountain bike or a touring shoe may be more practical because these shoes tend to be more comfortable and easier to walk in.   Gloves Cycling gloves can add comfort for holding the bars and can protect the hands in the event of a fall, and should therefore be worn at all times.   Cold/Wet Weather Attire Coaches and athletes should always be prepared for inclement weather. Some examples of useful clothing to have available include: Headband Cycling rain jacket Warm undershirt Cycling tights or leg warmers Cycling jacket or arm warmers Long fingered cycling gloves Shoe covers Accessories Eye protection is recommended for all athletes and essential for athletes with contacts Hydration system such as CamelBak® may be useful to ensure proper hydration

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