If you are a real cycling enthusiast, chances are, you take your cycling outfit and equipment very seriously. You seek the best deals and search for a larger range of products to purchase. It is inevitable to find yourself digging deep into your pockets throughout these processes to get what you so desire.
Cycling jerseys are no exception.
We all want the latest jersey designs but are always extremely wary of getting a bike jersey at a great price.
Why are cycling jerseys getting expensive?
There are a few potential reasons for this.
Reason 1
The first reason is that, as cycling becomes more and more popular, the demand for jerseys rises; manufacturers and suppliers take advantage of this by increasing prices.
Reason 2
Secondly, some cyclists believe that you get what you pay for in relation to cycling jerseys- they argue that more expensive jerseys are made with better materials and are of a higher quality.
Reason 3
Thirdly, cycling jerseys use technologically advanced fabrics. Because of the very nature of the material, they’re expensive to produce.
Reason 4
Lastly, these jerseys are sold at such high prices because of the branding and copyright issues surrounding them- manufacturers do not want to see their designs being copied and sold at a much lower price.
Reason 5
Their demand is rising whereas the supply remains limited.
Cycling jerseys are going High Tech
Like any racing sport, success in cycling depends on multiple factors. For instance, the weight of the rider, aerodynamics of the bike, comfort, and safety of the rider, etc. However, the cycling jersey is one of those important factors that makes or breaks a cyclist’s chances of winning.
In fact, some professional cyclists even believe in the old adage, “If you look good, you feel good. Therefore, you play well”. That’s perhaps why the cycling jerseys are going high-tech these days. Manufacturers are utilizing advanced exotic fabrics to weave the best suit for cyclists. Let’s take a look at some of the manufacturing techniques and fabrics to provide you with a window into why some jerseys may be too expensive.
1. Nanotechnology
To provide high-performance fabric safety and comfort, the manufacturers are using advanced textiles known as “Nano” to make cycling jerseys. The use of such materials reduces body temperature by 30% and makes the fabric smooth and easy to wear.
2. Mercerization
To achieve a high luster on the fabric, some manufacturers are using a Mercerization technique. The process uses caustic soda and tension to provide a tight and smooth texture to the fabric.
3. Carbon Fiber material
One of the most important components in sports equipment such as bike parts, helmets, and cycling jerseys is carbon fiber. This advanced man-made material is lighter, stronger, and more durable than any other metal or fabric.
4. Thermal Insulation
For the winter season, some manufacturers use thermal insulation materials to create a warm and cozy fabric.
5. Tight Weave Threads
To provide a durable and robust fabric, the manufacturers of cycling jerseys are using tight weave threads. Besides, tight weave threads are more comfortable, smooth, and aerodynamics friendly.
6. Composites
Some manufacturers use polyester, cotton, and carbon fiber composites to create a unique, cycling-friendly, and robust fabric. The primary thinking behind composites is that multi-material threads are stronger and more suitable for racing sports.
Cycling is not a poor man’s Sport
Let’s get real. Cycling is for the high-end market. It’s a market where a single-performance bike can run into hundreds of dollars. Add some matching gear like cycling shoes, gadgets, kits, accessories, etc., and the price tag easily jumps to thousands.
When spending that much on a bike, you want to have the best cycling jersey for maximum comfort and aerodynamics. And let’s be honest, you’re going to feel pretty silly rocking up to a race in a $30 jersey.
Price
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$64.95
$49.95
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General Tips to get the most bang for your bucks spent on a cycling jersey
Design
Design is the first thing that catches your eye when you scan a website for cycling jerseys. The more stylish and unique, the more expensive the jersey. If you are looking for a good cycling jersey that falls within your budget, look for jerseys with more subtle designs.
Pay some attention to the Seams
Another important factor that affects the price of a cycling jersey is the quality of the seams. A cheaper men’s cycling jersey will have less durable, straight stitches. Straight seams are easy to sew, saving both money and time. They are also not very comfortable because they can cause chafing. The better seams will be stretchy and even.
The Weaves
Jerseys with a tight weave are generally more durable and costlier than jerseys with a wide weave. A tight weave is usually more durable and has better padding, making the jersey comfortable.
Fabric Content
What is it made of? A jersey with a high percentage of polyester fiber will be lighter and more breathable than jerseys made from cotton.
Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF)?
UPF is a rating given to fabrics that shield your skin from ultraviolet rays. It’s like the UV protection rating you often find on the sunscreens. If you ride regularly, it’s always better to have a jersey that protects your skin from ultraviolet rays because it helps prevent sunburn and skin cancer.
The UPF rating of garments starts from 15 and goes on as high as 50. Even a jersey with UPF 15 will offer good protection, but jerseys with higher ratings provide better protection.
Zips, Pockets, and ventilation zones
You should also check the number and quality of pockets, zips, and ventilation, especially if it’s a custom cycling jersey. Generally, the more pockets you have, the higher will be the price. Also, look for ventilation zones on the jersey to improve breathability and keep you cool while riding.
Should you go for expensive cycling jerseys?
Whenever you scan through online cycling forums, you come across two wildly different opinions. On one side, cyclists argue that buying expensive jerseys will give you better quality, design, and performance. On the other hand, some cyclists believe that spending a lot of money on cycling jerseys is a waste. You can find cheaper alternatives via thrift stores or online resale markets without compromising quality.
I agree that some cycling jerseys are worth their high price tags because of the materials used and the care taken in designing them. However, there are also plenty of overpriced jerseys. It’s also a fact that cheaper jerseys are not as good in quality and performance. So, what’s the solution then?
I’d suggest staying in the middle. You should try to get a quality jersey that doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg. So the final decision comes down to you. If you are looking for a jersey that will give you good performance and last longer, go for an expensive one. If you are not worried about the price or performance, go for a cheaper alternative that looks good!
The Bottom Line
So, that’s all about why cycling jerseys are becoming so expensive. It’s not rocket science, simply put, it’s all down to supply and demand. The more popular cycling becomes, the more people want to slap a jersey and get on their bikes. And the more jerseys that are bought, the higher price they become! I hope you found something interesting in this post. Also, I would love to hear your views on this subject. Please feel free to comment below. Thanks!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What are the best cycling jerseys on the market?
It depends on your price range and what you’re looking for in a jersey. I recommend going for a quality jersey that gives you value for your money. You can probably get a good cycling jersey if you only spend around $50-$100. However, if you want a top-of-the-line jersey with all the bells and whistles, then be prepared to spend a few hundred dollars.
Q. Why are jerseys so expensive?
There are several reasons for this: the materials used, the care is taken in designing them, the popularity of cycling, and finally, the demand. The more popular cycling becomes, the more people want to slap a jersey and get on their bikes. And the more jerseys that are bought, the higher price they become!
Q. Is it worth investing in expensive jerseys?
It depends on how much you’re willing to spend and what you’re looking for in a jersey. If you want a jersey that will give you good performance and last long, go for an expensive one. If you are not worried about performance, go for a cheaper alternative that looks good!
Q. Where can I buy a cycling jersey?
You can purchase them from your local bike shop, online cycling stores, or through online auction/resale websites.