Finding discount cycling clothing can be a game-changer for both new and experienced cyclists. Quality gear can be pricey, but with a little know-how, you can snag top brands without breaking the bank. This article will guide you through some of the best tips for scoring deals on cycling clothing from well-known brands like Assos, Castelli, and Rapha.
Key Takeaways
- Check out online stores and marketplaces for deals on top cycling brands.
- Sign up for newsletters from cycling retailers to get notified about sales and discounts.
- Use price comparison websites to ensure you're getting the best deal.
- Consider buying during off-season sales when prices are often lower.
- Join cycling forums and social media groups to find exclusive discounts and tips.
1. Assos
Assos is a Swiss brand known for its high-quality cycling clothing. They were the first to use lycra in cycling shorts, which revolutionized the industry. Assos products are often on the pricier side, but they offer innovative designs and top-notch materials.
Key Products
- Assos Equipe RSR Bib Shorts S9 Targa: These bib shorts are lightweight and provide excellent compression. The unique seat pad design enhances comfort on long rides.
- Assos Women's UMA GTV Jersey C2: Made from soft, close-fitting fabrics, this jersey offers a streamlined performance and a comfortable fit.
- Assos Equipe RS Rain Jacket Targa: This jacket combines waterproofing with great breathability, making it ideal for wet weather riding.
Tips for Scoring Discounts
- Shop During Off-Season: Prices often drop when the cycling season is over. Look for sales in late fall and winter.
- Compare Prices: Check multiple retailers to find the best deal. Websites like Competitive Cyclist and Backcountry.com often have sales.
- Sign Up for Newsletters: Retailers frequently send out discount codes and sale notifications to their subscribers.
- Consider Second-Hand Options: Websites and local shops sometimes offer gently used Assos gear at a fraction of the cost.
Assos gear is known for its durability and comfort, making it a worthwhile investment for serious cyclists.
2. Castelli
Castelli, based in the Italian Dolomites, has a long history of innovation in cycling apparel. Known for producing high-quality gear, Castelli has been a favorite among cyclists for decades. One of their standout products is the Gabba jersey, which offers rain resistance, wind protection, and insulation without the bulk. This jersey has set a standard in the industry and remains a top choice for wet weather rides.
Another popular item is the Perfetto RoS jacket, which provides an impressive mix of warmth, water resistance, and breathability. This jacket is perfect for cold rides and has received high praise for its performance.
For those looking for comfortable and windproof options, the Entrata Wind Bib Tights are an excellent choice. These tights are made from windproof fabric, ensuring comfort in cold conditions without adding extra bulk. They also feature a quality seat pad for added comfort.
Castelli's commitment to innovation and quality makes it a go-to brand for cyclists seeking reliable and high-performance clothing.
3. dhb
The in-house brand of Wiggle and Chain Reaction Cycles, dhb offers a wide range of cycling clothing at various price points. From budget-friendly options to high-performance gear, dhb has something for every cyclist.
One of the standout features of dhb clothing is its great seat pad and excellent fit, especially in their women's bib shorts. Made from high-quality Italian fabrics, these shorts are comfortable even on hot rides.
Key Features
- Wide Range of Prices: dhb offers both inexpensive and higher-priced performance items.
- Quality Fabrics: Many of their products are made from high-quality Italian materials.
- Great Fit: Their clothing is known for its excellent fit, making it a good option for both recreational and competitive cyclists.
Popular Products
- dhb Aeron Turbo Lightweight Shorts: Ideal for indoor training, these shorts are lightweight yet provide ample coverage.
- dhb Aeron Thermal Long Sleeved Jersey: This versatile jersey is warm, wind-resistant, and offers great value for its price.
- dhb Aeron Women's Bib Shorts: Known for their great seat pad and fit, these bib shorts are made from quality Italian fabrics and are comfortable even on hot rides.
dhb's lower-priced clothing has a more relaxed fit, making it a good option for recreational riding. However, their Aeron and Aeron Lab collections offer performance that rivals big brands but at a lower cost.
4. Endura
Endura is a Scottish brand known for its high-quality cycling clothing at competitive prices. Although their sponsorship of the Movistar pro team ended a few years ago, the partnership has left a lasting impact on their products, incorporating cutting-edge features.
Endura is particularly well-suited for wet and cold weather gear, making it a great choice for those who ride in less-than-ideal conditions. They also offer a range of warm weather and off-road clothing. One of the standout features of Endura's products is their commitment to environmental sustainability, using recycled yarns and PTFE-free water-resistant coatings.
Popular Endura Products
- Endura Pro SL 3-Season Jacket: This winter jacket includes a removable gilet inside, allowing for excellent temperature regulation. It's well-priced and highly functional.
- Endura FS260-Pro Bibshorts DS: These women's shorts feature a Drop Seat for easier comfort breaks, a great fit, and a comfortable seat pad.
- Endura Pro SL Bibtights II: Designed for winter conditions, these tights offer windproofing and water repellency, along with a first-rate seat pad for long-distance comfort.
Endura's commitment to quality and sustainability makes it a top choice for cyclists looking for reliable and eco-friendly gear.
5. Le Col
Le Col, founded by former professional cyclist Yanto Barker, has carved a niche in the performance cycling clothing market. Known for its high-quality, durable products, Le Col manufactures its gear in its own factory in Italy. The brand is celebrated for its comfortable jerseys and simple block color designs, though it also offers more vibrant pro replica kits.
Key Products
- Le Col Pro Aqua Zero Long Sleeve Jersey: This jersey provides warmth and a bit of extra protection from the wet with its Aqua Zero coating. It's also reasonably priced.
- Le Col Sport Thermal Cargo Bib Shorts: These thermal bib shorts are versatile for cooler weather and include cargo pockets for extra carrying capacity.
- Le Col Pro Winter Jacket II: This top winter jacket offers a race fit, good wind and water resistance, and reflective detailing for off-season rides.
Le Col’s bib shorts feature quality seat pads that ensure comfort on longer rides. The brand was also one of the first to embrace lightweight indoor cycling clothing.
Where to Buy
- DICK'S Sporting Goods
- Moosejaw.com
- Amazon
Le Col's commitment to quality and performance makes it a top choice for cyclists looking for reliable and stylish gear.
6. Sportful
Sportful is a sister brand to Castelli, designed in the same Italian facility. It uses high-quality fabrics with a technical edge to produce top-notch cycling clothing. Sportful is well-known for its Fiandre and NoRain ranges, which are water-repellent and windproof, making them ideal for damp weather conditions.
Key Products
- Sportful Classic Women's Bib Shorts: These bib shorts feature a quality seat pad and gripperless leg openings for a seamless fit. They also have minimal flatlocked seams for added comfort.
- Sportful Tempo Winter Jacket: This jacket is versatile, working well from autumn to spring. The front is windproof, while the back is breathable. However, you might need an additional waterproof layer if it rains.
- Sportful Loom Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey: This mid-weight jersey has a relaxed fit and works well on its own or with a base layer for cooler weather.
Sportful's clothing is designed to offer both performance and comfort, making it a reliable choice for various weather conditions.
7. Rapha
Rapha is a brand that stands out for its quality wool-rich fabrics and simple designs. Initially, Rapha focused on classic styles reminiscent of the 1960s, but it has since embraced modern materials like lycra. Today, Rapha offers a mix of both classic and contemporary designs, making it a versatile choice for cyclists.
Rapha's clothing is known for being expensive but durable. The brand consistently scores well in reviews, thanks to its high-quality materials and construction. Some of the standout products include the Rapha Men's Pro Team Aero jersey, which is lightweight and has a compressive fit, and the Rapha Brevet Gore-Tex Rain Jacket, known for its packability and waterproofing.
- Rapha Men's Pro Team Aero Jersey: Lightweight, compressive fit, and aerodynamic.
- Rapha Brevet Gore-Tex Rain Jacket: Highly packable, excellent waterproofing, and reflective stripes for safety.
- Rapha Core Cargo Bib Shorts: Comfortable, lower-priced, and feature cargo pockets on the legs.
Rapha's blend of classic and modern designs, along with its focus on quality, makes it a top choice for cyclists looking for durable and stylish clothing.
8. Planet X
Planet X is a well-known retailer for budget-friendly cycling gear. They offer a wide range of products, from bikes to clothing, often at significantly reduced prices. Here are some tips to make the most of your shopping experience at Planet X:
- Sign Up for Newsletters: Planet X frequently sends out newsletters with exclusive discounts and early access to sales. Signing up can give you a head start on the best deals.
- Check the Clearance Section: The clearance section is a goldmine for discounted items. You can find high-quality gear at a fraction of the original price.
- Seasonal Sales: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, especially during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and end-of-season clearances. These events often feature the biggest discounts.
- Bundle Deals: Planet X often offers bundle deals where you can buy multiple items at a reduced price. This is a great way to save if you need several pieces of gear.
Shopping at Planet X can be a great way to get high-quality cycling clothing without breaking the bank. By taking advantage of their newsletters, clearance section, seasonal sales, and bundle deals, you can score some fantastic bargains.
9. Decathlon
Decathlon is a popular choice for cyclists looking for affordable yet high-quality gear. They offer a wide range of cycling clothing that caters to both beginners and seasoned riders. Here are some tips to help you score the best deals at Decathlon:
- Check the Clearance Section: Decathlon often has a clearance section where you can find significant discounts on cycling clothing. It's a great place to start your search for bargains.
- Sign Up for the Newsletter: By signing up for Decathlon's newsletter, you can stay updated on the latest sales and promotions. This way, you won't miss out on any limited-time offers.
- Visit During Sales Events: Decathlon frequently holds sales events, especially during holidays and end-of-season periods. These events are perfect for finding discounted cycling gear.
- Use the Decathlon App: The Decathlon app often features exclusive deals and discounts. Downloading the app can give you access to these special offers.
- Take Advantage of Free Services: Decathlon offers various free services, such as bike assembly and maintenance workshops. These services can add value to your purchase and help you save money in the long run.
Decathlon is known for its affordable yet high-quality gear, making it a go-to destination for cyclists on a budget.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your shopping experience at Decathlon and find great deals on cycling clothing.
10. Bike Bargains
Bike Bargains is one of the most popular websites in the UK for finding great deals on cycling gear. They collect deals from multiple online stores and present them in an easy-to-search format. This saves you a lot of time compared to visiting each store individually.
Top Tips for Using Bike Bargains
- Follow on Twitter: Bike Bargains has an active Twitter account where they post daily deals. This is a great way to stay updated on the latest discounts.
- Check Regularly: Since the site doesn't offer notifications, you'll need to check it frequently to catch the best deals.
For those who love a bargain, Bike Bargains is a must-visit site. It offers a comprehensive guide to the best deals, ensuring you stay dry and ride in style without breaking the bank.
Drawbacks
- Store Selection: The site only lists stock from stores they have partnerships with, so you might miss out on deals from smaller retailers.
- No Notifications: You'll have to manually check the site for new deals, as it doesn't offer a notification feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find discounts on Assos cycling clothing?
To find discounts on Assos cycling clothing, check out online retailers during sales events, sign up for newsletters, and follow Assos on social media for special promotions.
Are there seasonal sales for Castelli gear?
Yes, many online stores and local shops offer seasonal sales on Castelli gear, especially during the end of cycling seasons and major holidays.
Is dhb a good brand for budget-friendly cycling clothing?
Absolutely! dhb is known for providing high-quality cycling clothing at affordable prices, making it a favorite among budget-conscious cyclists.
Where can I find Endura cycling clothing at a discount?
You can find Endura cycling clothing at a discount on various online marketplaces, during seasonal sales, and by subscribing to retailer newsletters for exclusive deals.
Does Le Col offer discounts for first-time buyers?
Yes, Le Col often provides discounts for first-time buyers. Check their website or subscribe to their newsletter to receive these special offers.
What’s the best way to get deals on Sportful cycling clothing?
To get the best deals on Sportful cycling clothing, shop during major sales events, use coupon codes, and follow Sportful on social media for exclusive discounts.
How can I save money on Rapha cycling gear?
You can save money on Rapha cycling gear by shopping during sales, checking out outlet sections on their website, and signing up for their newsletter for special offers.
Are there any tips for finding discounts on Planet X bikes?
Yes, Planet X frequently offers significant discounts on their website. Sign up for their newsletter and follow them on social media to stay updated on the latest deals.