The die-hard cyclists do it all winter, but for those of us less inclined to risk icy wipe-outs, summer is the best time to bust out the whip and cruise through town (or, at the very least, weave your way through an ever-changing patchwork of construction sites). Whether you’re riding a shiny new Cannondale or a venerable CCM, it’s never been easier for guys to look good doing it.
Levi’s
Levi’s Commuter line has been around for a while now. Its most famous feature is the large loop that accommodates a U-ring bike lock, but elastic pocket gussets ensure your phone stays shatter-free as long as possible, 3M reflective cuffs transform you into a speeding beacon and the stretchy fabric provides comfort and, ahem, “easy mobility.” For summer, the 511 trouser has the classic shape of 511 jeans but with an airier feel for hot days and steamy nights.
Rapha
London-based Rapha focuses specifically on “performance roadwear” — clothing that puts functionality first without sacrificing style. The tailored jacket is a collaboration between Rapha and Timothy Everest, a bespoke tailor in London. Designed for the road, buttons can be fastened at the collar and chest to keep out wind and rain, pleats in the shoulders allow for more movement and never underestimate the usefulness of a zipped key pocket with lanyard.
Danny Shane
If you consider yourself more of a racer than an ambler, try out these performance jerseys from Danny Shane. With tartans and plaids, these jerseys are more eye-catching than simple monotone cycling shirts, that is, if you weren’t an indiscernible blur.
Paul Smith
Don’t own a bike? You can still look like you care about the environment and proper fitness with these Paul Smith embroidered chino cyclist shorts. Just the right above-the-knee length with Smith’s trademark whimsy, these shorts are just the thing for any guy looking to add some cyclist swag to his wardrobe.
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Image courtesy of Levi’s.
