Originally Posted by
kangchen
Thanks, all! Lots of great advice here. Been off the bike this week because of a back injury but next week I'm back on and can't wait to try all of these ideas out.The showering beforehand and wearing wool is mind-boggling but makes plenty of sense.
I haven't observed any kinds of criticism about wearing spandex before so this was my first experience of it. I hear you, tjspiel but I'm curious about nashcommguy's (and anybody else who agrees with him) view. What's so bad about it? I've worn spandex since high school when I was a rower so I'm pretty comfortable with it and know that I'm not killing anybody's eyes (otherwise I wouldn't be in it). Before I hit the showers at the gym I'll do some lifting so it feels situationally appropriate since I'm riding to the gym first.
You may not have
observed any criticism, but I can assure you it's there. Personally, I have no problem with it. I've had cycle-commuting co-workers over the years who wear spandex bottoms w/o a trace of self-consciousness. Hey, good for them. And you. I just happen to have drawn a different conclusion in 25 years of cycle-commuting.
My use of the term 'full kit' was wrong in this context. I get that. I was simply referring to the combo of a cycling jersey, padded lycra shorts, poly-pro cycling socks, clipless shoes, matching helmet, etc.
All of which I wear. The only difference is that I wear a pair of mtb shorts as well. And it's simply in consideration of my co-workers. That's it. There was no intent to 'look down' on the OP.
So, there it is. My best explanation. No intent to offend or judge.