The Best Men’s Cycling Gear of 2021
Carefree pedaling starts with a great kit
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PNW Loam Dropper Seatpost ($199)
We’ve never tested such a customizable seatpost. Tune the return speed, or tweak travel in five-millimeter increments. Its stack height lets smaller riders run a longer dropper. Bonus: it’s affordable.
Rapha Pro Team Powerweave Bibs ($375)
Rapha’s stretchy weave positions nylon fibers on the outside for durability and wicking polyester ones on the inside. It also integrates leg grippers sans seams (no chafing). We barely felt the high-density chamois, even on grueling rides.
Shimano S-Phyre SH-RC902 Road Shoes ($425)
Shimano’s flagship road shoe is light, breathable, and comfy all day. The carbon soles give optimal power transfer, while new Boa dials enable precise adjustments.
Garmin Varia RTL515 Radar ($200)
The third generation of this radar tail light detects rear-approaching vehicles from more than 150 yards, then warns you about them on your cockpit-mounted device.
CamelBak M.U.L.E. Pro 14 Pack ($150)
The M.U.L.E. carries its share for big adventures. The 14-liter pack features an included tool roll, a dedicated slot to carry an e-bike battery, and a new ventilated back panel.
Wolf Tooth Components 8-Bit Pack Pliers ($70)
Fix mid-ride mechanicals with this innovative 17-function tool that includes rare implements like master-link pliers, a valve-core remover, and a valve-cleaning tool to unclog sealant.
Velocio Micromodal Trail Tee ($89)
This tee’s fabric—a blend of modal and elastane—feels like your favorite cotton shirt but with amazing wicking properties.
Wahoo Elemnt Rival Multisport GPS Smartwatch ($380)
The Rival tracks segments and automatically detects transitions, for accurate triathlon recording. We appreciate the watch’s simple interface, which is customizable via the Wahoo app.
Bontrager Rally WaveCel Helmet ($150)
Sure, the Rally is comfortable and easy to adjust. What won us over: the proprietary impact protection system. A wavy polyester polymer structure deforms simultaneously in multiple directions, potentially dissipating force better than EPS foam.
Smith Shift Mag Sunglasses ($259)
With its full coverage, the Smith Shift Mag is the only pair of riding shades you need. Large interchangeable lenses offer options for everything from harsh light to dim forests.
