Plus size cycling clothing is not the easiest thing in the world to come by. It can be a daunting and intimidating process not to mention extremely time consuming and frustrating. The majority of brands offering female ranges only go up to a size large which is about a UK14.
If you are thinking about getting on a bike for the first time in order to shed some pounds, do not let this put you off. Just look at Teena Gates, a fabulous woman who used her commute to work to transform not just her appearance (she lost half her body weight) but her entire life too.
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When Teena first started exercising, she was forced to wear men’s clothing which was all she could fit into. Her 5’2” frame was swamped when it came to leg and arm length. She didn’t let this stop her though and sought her solution in a roll of heavy duty duct tape!
Thankfully things are improving and more brands are upping their game when it comes to the provision of plus size cycling clothing. After extensive research however we do appreciate that this clothing is limited so there is not a lot of choice when it comes to colour, fit or style but there are offerings when it comes to plus size waterproof jackets, knickers, shorts, and jerseys.
Where to buy plus size cycling clothing?
Here in the UK, Corinne Dennis has by far the largest selection of plus size cycling clothing. Based in Somerset, this brand offers top notch service to ensure you are kitted out correctly. They offer plus size cycling apparel in sizes from UK 8-20.
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Offerings on the bigger online sites like Wiggle and Chain Reaction are very limited but they do have a couple of items in XXL. One of the better online stores is Minx Girl who sell the brand Terry – one of the most popular offerings for plus size cycling clothing. The Terry Knicker in particular is a best seller for the site.
Tips for Buying Plus Size Cycling Clothing
- If buying online, make sure the store has a good returns policy. Sierra Trading, Minx Girl, Wiggle and Chain Reaction all have fantastic returns policies.
- Sizing varies dramatically from brand to brand. Instead of taking the size at face value, take your measurements and use the sizing chart provided.
- If at first you don’t succeed try try again. Do not be put off if the first pair of cycling shorts you try isn’t the perfect fit, there will be a pair out there to suit you so keep on trying.
- Sit on the bike in order to establish whether your kit is the correct fit. There is nothing worse than trying on a jersey and thinking it fits ok only to get on the bike and realise that it rides up when you are in the riding position.
- Just because you are riding a bike, it does not mean you have to be decked out head to toe in lycra. Opt for looser fitting technical t-shirts and baggy shorts if you will feel more comfortable. Liner shorts such as the Terry Liner Short can be popped under your regular exercise kit so you get the benefit of a chamois. The Primal Vega Women’s baggy short is another great solution as there is a stitched in chamois but the short is a much looser, more flattering cut than more traditional lycra offerings.
- Beware of customs. If you are ordering product from the US be aware that you are likely to get hit with a customs bill. If possible ask the company to mark the package as a gift.
Are you new to commuting and eager to improve your skills on the road? Or do you sometimes struggle to motivate yourself to stick to a healthy eating and fitness regime.
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