How to Choose Your First Cycling Jersey

Stepping into a cycling store, or scrolling through endless online options, can feel overwhelming when you’re shopping for your first cycling jersey. With price tags ranging from $50 to $300 and designs spanning from minimalist solids to eye-popping patterns, how do you know which jersey is right for you?

Don’t worry. Choosing your first cycling jersey doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s everything you need to know to make a confident, informed decision.

Understanding Jersey Fit: Your Foundation

The first and most important decision you’ll make is choosing the right fit. Cycling jerseys generally come in three fit categories: race fit, club fit, and relaxed fit.

Race fit jerseys hug your body tightly, reducing wind resistance and eliminating fabric flapping at high speeds. They’re perfect if you’re performance-focused, but they can feel restrictive if you’re new to cycling or carrying a few extra pounds.

Club fit strikes the perfect balance, fitted enough to prevent excess fabric but with room to breathe comfortably. This is the sweet spot for most beginners and recreational riders.

Relaxed fit jerseys offer the most comfort and movement, ideal for casual rides, commuting, or mountain biking where aerodynamics matter less than freedom of movement.

Pro tip: If you’re between sizes, size up. A slightly loose jersey is more comfortable than one that’s uncomfortably tight, especially on longer rides. For more detailed guidance on what to look for in a bike jersey, consider your riding style and body type carefully.

Fabric Matters More Than You Think

Not all jerseys are created equal when it comes to materials. Your first jersey should prioritize moisture-wicking fabrics that pull sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable.

Look for jerseys made from polyester blends or merino wool. Polyester is lightweight, dries quickly, and handles repeated washing well, perfect for beginners who’ll be wearing their jersey frequently. Merino wool offers natural temperature regulation and odor resistance, though it comes at a higher price point.

Avoid cotton at all costs. While cotton t-shirts work fine for a quick neighborhood spin, they absorb sweat, become heavy, and cause chafing on longer rides, a recipe for misery.

If you’re serious about optimizing your cycling performance, investing in quality fabric technology from the start sets you up for success.

Essential Features to Consider

Pockets: Those three rear pockets aren’t just for show. They’re strategically placed to carry your phone, snacks, keys, and tools without affecting your balance or comfort. Make sure your first jersey has at least three standard rear pockets.

Zippers: Full-length zippers offer maximum ventilation control, letting you regulate temperature on the fly. Half-zippers work fine for cooler weather but can feel restrictive on hot days.

Sleeves: Standard short-sleeve jerseys work for most conditions, but consider a sleeveless option if you’re riding in extreme heat or prefer maximum arm mobility.

Visibility: Especially important for road riders, reflective elements or high-visibility colors significantly improve your safety. Many modern jerseys incorporate reflective strips on the back and sides for low-light conditions.

Climate Considerations

Where you ride matters. Australian summers demand jerseys with UV protection (UPF 50+), excellent ventilation, and light colors that reflect heat. Winter riders need slightly heavier fabrics with longer sleeves or layering compatibility.

Don’t overthink seasonal versatility with your first jersey, choose one that matches the conditions you’ll ride in most frequently. You can always expand your collection later.

Budget Reality Check

Your first jersey doesn’t need to break the bank. Quality entry-level jerseys start around $60-$80 and deliver everything a beginner needs: proper fit, moisture management, pockets, and durability.

Mid-range jerseys ($100-$150) often include better fabrics, improved construction, and more thoughtful design details. Premium jerseys ($200+) offer marginal performance gains that most beginners won’t notice.

Invest appropriately for your commitment level. If you’re riding twice a week casually, an $80 jersey serves you perfectly. Training for centuries or races? Consider stepping up to the $120-$150 range for enhanced comfort and durability.

When deciding what cycling jersey you should choose, remember that the best jersey is the one you’ll actually wear consistently.

Style and Personal Expression

Here’s the fun part: choose designs you genuinely love. Whether you prefer subtle solids, bold patterns, or team colors, your jersey should make you excited to ride.

Don’t be afraid to express your personality. Cycling culture has moved beyond boring solid colors, modern designs range from minimalist elegance to artistic masterpieces. If you’re feeling creative, you can even design your dream custom cycling jersey that perfectly reflects your style.

Making Your Final Decision

The perfect first cycling jersey checks these boxes:

• Comfortable club or relaxed fit
• Moisture-wicking polyester blend
• Three rear pockets
• Full-length zipper
• Appropriate for your climate
• A design you love
• Within your budget

When you’re ready to find that perfect first jersey, explore the comprehensive cycling collection at Scody. With options for every rider, budget, and style preference, you’ll discover performance apparel that makes every ride better. Compare performance features and find exactly what you need to start your cycling journey right.

Happy riding!