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The Guardian
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- The Guardian
‘Your nether regions will know if you've skimped': 16 summer cycling essentials
Cycling is one of the most rewarding activities around. It's good for your physical and mental health, offers a carbon-free way of getting from A to B, and can often be the quickest and most cost-effective form of transport – particularly if you live in a city. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. Once you're hooked, there are a few bits of kit that will improve your experience immeasurably, whether that's comfortable clothing to curtail chaffing, or a water bottle to help you hydrate without stopping. In summer, the longer days and generally favourable conditions mean you can forgo additional accessories such as bike lights, mudguards and head-to-toe waterproofs – although they can't be avoided forever if you become a year-round, all-weather rider. Another bit of good news is that while cycling has a reputation for being an expensive pursuit, it doesn't have to be, and many of my favourite bits of kit have more affordable price tags. In the almost three decades since I set off stabiliser-free for the first time, I've dabbled in all types of cycling – from a teenage fling with BMXing to inner-city commuting and ultra-distance off-road escapades. In that time, I've tested all manner of clothing, tools and accessories, pushing them to the limit during races, events, training rides and the daily grind. Here's my favourite gear that I reach for before setting off on a summer ride. Although it performs a similar function to a generic sports base layer, a jersey is the first 'proper' bit of cycling gear worth investing in because of the additional comfort it offers. Made from a lightweight, breathable fabric, a jersey will wick away moisture from hotspots, while a full-length zip means you can 'ventilate' on the go. Three rear pockets store essentials such as food, tools and a phone, and unlike a running or gym top, the cut is slightly longer at the back for extra coverage when riding leant forward. My favourites, which perform well without breaking the bank, are Italian-designed Sportful SRK, which includes an extra zipped compartment for keys; the 100% recycled Rapha Core; the DHB Blok and its women-specific range, Moda; and the sub-£40 Madison Flux, which comes with a lifetime guarantee. Rapha Core women's jersey Sportful men's SRK jersey DHB Moda women's short-sleeve jersey 2.0 DHB Blok men's classic short-sleeve jersey Madison Flux men's short-sleeve jersey Bib shorts might seem like an indulgent (and expensive) purchase, but you get what you pay for – and your nether regions will let it be known if you've skimped. Fitted with a saddle-shaped section of foam in the crotch (known as a chamois), the shorts add an extra layer of padding beneath your perineum that keeps the area dry and cushioned on long rides. Just don't wear underwear, as this can negate the benefits. The straps may make the item resemble a wrestler's singlet, but they keep the shorts in place more comfortably than a waistband, which can dig in over time. As the male and female anatomy are quite different down there, it's worth opting for a gender-specific set. Albion's ABR1 are my go-to for ultra-distance exploits, arriving with handy pockets on each thigh and one at the rear for extra storage. The Gregarius Essential from Q36.5, meanwhile, are soft and supportive against the skin, and breathable too. And for women, 'Petrichor Projects' PP002 offer unbeatable comfort, with a cargo pocket, easy-pee design and sleek aesthetics,' says Katherine Moore, author of Gravel Rides South West England, who also recommends Velocio's Luxe line for all-day epics. 'They're made from a super-soft, compressive material with a built-in base layer front and lovely raw-finish leg hem. A thicker-style chamois pad is the go-to for longer rides.' Albion ABR1 men's pocket bib shorts Q36.5 Gregarius Essential bib shorts Petrichor Projects PP002 women's bib shorts Velocio women's Luxe bib shorts If you'd rather cover your modesty with a normal set of shorts, then opt for a pair of undershorts instead. Secured at the waist, rather than the shoulders, this padded set from Endura will soften the sting of any terrain (as I found out when mountain biking in Colorado), while the stretchy mesh fabric minimises the buildup of sweat, even when worn under non-technical clothing. Endura men's padded Clickfast liner shorts Endura women's padded Clickfast liner shorts Cotton caps were originally designed to protect bare heads from the sun, although today's peloton professionals will rarely wear one. Since you're unlikely to be chasing every watt on your commute, though, a cycling cap under your helmet is a good way to shield from the sun or take off the chill on cooler mornings, all while adding a splash of colour to your riding wardrobe. Prendas specialises in vintage cotton caps, with the Mapei design of the 90s and early 00s team one of the loudest around. The Giro d'Italia-inspired cap from the General Classification is a bit more subtle but oozes style. Mapei retro cotton cycling cap Tour of Italy cotton cycling cap Helmets are a source of contentious debate, but if you want a model that goes above and beyond the EN1078 European standard (which every cycling helmet sold is required to pass by law), the ARO3 Endurance by Oakley is a good choice. It includes an internal Mips (multi-directional impact protection system) layer, which can move independently of the outer shell in the event of a crash, helping to protect the brain. Its 19 vents keep the air flowing even on the warmest days, and the antimicrobial liner minimises odour, ride after ride. Oakley AR03 Endurance Mips helmet Although your feet are fairly static when riding a bike, all of those revolutions will soon have you working up a sweat inside your shoes. Any sports sock will do the job, but a cycling-specific pair will be much more comfortable, providing ventilation on the tops of your feet and padded toes to support every pedal stroke. Like caps, socks can enable you to add a splash of personality, and the fluoro finish of Aussie brand Maap's training sock is sure to get nods of approval at the traffic lights. Maap training sock Oversized sports sunglasses are a must-have fashion accessory this summer, but if you're more interested in conquering hills than the catwalk, you should prioritise a set that provides good coverage against sun, rain and unsuspecting insects – as well as ventilation to prevent you from fogging up. Decathlon's Van Rysel brand is renowned for its premium products, and its RoadR 900 shades can stand up to models from Oakley for a fraction of the cost. This pair comes with a photochromic, UV-filtering nylon lens that automatically adjusts depending on the sun's intensity, meaning no need to swap between lenses and cover them in grubby fingerprints in the process. The lens has also undergone an oil-repelling treatment that helps rain and road spray run from its surface. Decathlon Van Rysel RoadR 900 Perf sunglasses Most riders will need to drink at least 500ml of fluids an hour when cycling, and even more if it's hot. You can use any water bottle, but a bidon comes with an easy-to-open valve that allows you to refresh as you ride, so you don't need to stop to unscrew any lids. The Camelbak Podium is a time-honoured design that can carry up to 710ml, allowing you to ride for longer without running dry, and its insulated version keeps contents cold. Camelbak Podium water bottle Road cyclists take pride in their tan lines, but protecting your skin is more important than chasing a golden glow. A sports-specific sunscreen will handle sweat better than an everyday cream, and Ultrasun's Sports Gel does the job without leaving any greasy marks on your clothes. The fast-absorbing gel is easier to apply than a spray, and means you can quickly see whether you've covered all your exposed skin before setting off. Sign up to The Filter Get the best shopping advice from the Filter team straight to your inbox. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. after newsletter promotion Ultrasun sports gel SPF30 Instead of forking out for a dedicated cycling computer for navigation and tracking, your phone can perform a similar function if you arm it with the right apps (see below). To keep an eye on directions or distance covered, you'll want to attach it to your bike front and centre with a mount on your stem (the part that joins your handlebars to your fork). Quad Lock's offering might look simple, but its twist and dual-lock system means you can trust it will hold your phone in place, and the included cable ties will fix it firmly to your bike. Quad Lock Bike Mount Pro stem mount Quad Lock Mag case for iPhone Cycle enough and you'll eventually come a cropper with a mid-ride mechanical. A puncture is the most common culprit, so it's a good idea to arm yourself with the tools and knowhow to fix one. Tyre levers and a pump are a must, and carrying an inner tube or two that are the same size as those installed on your wheels will be the quickest fix. A puncture-repair kit is always a good backup too. For other issues, such as loose fittings or a broken chain, Crankbrothers' pocket-sized F16 multitool has the hex bolt bits to get you out of most scrapes. If you have any carbon fibre components, Topeak's Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+ includes a torque gauge to stop you overtightening (and damaging) your bike. Crankbrothers F16 Multitool Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+ Pedro's tyre levers Decathlon inner tube repair patch replacement kit Lezyne V2 ABS pressure-drive hand pump A solid pair of shorts will go a long way to helping you avoid saddle sores, but applying a layer of chamois cream to the area pre-ride is a belt-and-braces approach. You need to apply only a small amount of this cooling, rehydrating formula from Assos to keep everything supple and chafe-free – even after 12 hours in the saddle. Assos chamois creme There's a cycling bag for every type of ride – from panniers perfect for the daily grind to the office, to big bikepacking setups that could survive a round-the-world expedition. For everyday exploring, though, you can't beat a handlebar bag. The 3.4l Lil Presto Barrel Bag by Wizard Works can comfortably carry a waterproof layer, nutritional provisions and a multitool, and its hard-shell Cordura construction will keep contents protected from the elements (with the rigidity making it easy to unzip on the go). Wizard Works Lil Presto barrel bag The cafe stop is a sacrosanct staple of any bike ride, and can sometimes be the sole motivation for saddling up. But cycling longer distances will require you to refuel well before you can tuck into your cappuccino and cake. Sports gels deliver a convenient, compact and easy-to-digest hit of carbohydrates, with a dose recommended every 20-30 minutes. Veloforte's energy gels are half the size of those from most other manufacturers, while the use of concentrated fruit juice rather than flavourings means you won't suffer from the flavour fatigue of more synthetic-tasting alternatives. Clif Bloks are a good option for those who prefer a more solid sugar hit. Veloforte Primo natural energy gel Clif Bloks Energy Chews Looking for some local ride inspiration, or planning something farther afield? There are a host of navigation apps that can suggest tailored tours based on duration, distance and difficulty, and their cycling-specific nature means you're rarely led astray (or on to a dual carriageway). Komoot is great for finding off-road-leaning trails and has its own easy-to-use route planner that includes user-recommended highlights. And if you already subscribe to Strava, in addition to tracking and displaying your speed and distance, the app has a route tool that can generate a loop based on the most popular roads and paths. For those who prefer printed guides, Jack Thurston's Lost Lanes books are a brilliant resource and offer well-researched routes with accompanying downloadable directions. Komoot Strava Lost Lanes Southern England Pounding the pedals can leave you with sore muscles, so ramp up your recovery with a massage gun. Theragun's third-generation Mini packs an almighty punch considering its size, and is small enough to stow in a pannier if you're out on a multi-day adventure. Its three-head attachments can delve deep into aches and pains in your quads, calves and lower back, and its guided routines are handy for those new to knot-busting. Theragun mini third generation For more, read our roundup of the best massage guns Charlie Allenby is a health and fitness journalist who puts running and cycling gear through its paces on increasingly ridiculous endurance challenges
Times
2 days ago
- Times
12 of the best Baltic cruises
From Copenhagen's cobbled streets and canalside cool to the gothic architecture and imposing squares of Tallinn, Baltic cruises visit some of Europe's most beautiful and historic cities. Itineraries include the countries along the Baltic Sea including Norway, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Poland and Germany, plus the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Some sail straight from British ports for a no-fly option, while others are ideal for adding on a city break before or after you sail. Along the way, you can expect Unesco-listed old towns, sleek Nordic design, lively waterfronts, fantastic museums, fairytale palaces and some of the world's best cafés. These are our favourite Baltic cruises to article contains affiliate links that will earn us revenue You'll take in two Baltic capitals — Latvia's Riga and Estonia's Tallinn — as well as the Lithuanian maritime city of Klaipeda on port-intensive sailings aboard the 692-passenger Azamara Onward. This line has a Destination Immersion programme with a bigger than average choice of shore tours to explore local cultures, often from a different perspective. In Gdansk, Poland's largest and oldest seaport, you can kayak along canals in the old town, or venture into rural Lithuania to visit a third generation family-run bee farm. Back onboard, don't forget to pack something for Azamara's signature white night Cunard designed Queen Anne — its first new vessel in 12 years — the brief was to interpret the line's 184-year-history through fresh and modern eyes. The resulting new 3,000-passenger flagship combines the rich seafaring heritage with contemporary design details. Find out for yourself on nine- to 14-night sailings to Scandinavia and northern Europe, which include convenient round-trip voyages from Southampton. In between days at sea with white-glove service and black tie balls, you'll visit destinations such as Skagen, on Denmark's northernmost tip, where the stark beauty and ever-changing light has inspired generations of artists. This is another line with no-fly cruises from Southampton. The 3,647-passenger Britannia was built with UK guests in mind, from the entertainment through to Brodie's bar with the largest collection of British bottled beers at sea. On the 14-night Scandinavia and Baltic itinerary, there are plenty of beer-inspired excursions. In Tallinn there's a trip to sample craft beers at a small rural brewery. On the way you'll pass the 50m Jagala, Estonia's biggest waterfall. Meanwhile, in Kiel, guests can book an excursion to the red brick city of Lubeck, once capital of Germany's medieval Hanseatic League trading time to spare? Then Oceania's 35-night northern Europe sailing visits 29 ports of call, taking in Baltic highlights and lesser-known destinations in the region. They include the Unesco-listed town of Visby, the capital of Sweden's Gotland, the largest island in the Baltic. Sirena, which is sailing in the Baltic in 2024 and 2025, is a great ship if you prefer to sail with fewer than 700 passengers. The atmosphere is stylish and unpretentious, and Sirena serves excellent cuisine for all tastes from the grand dining room with a chef's tasting menu to the Asian-inspired Red Ginger restaurant and Italian steak and seafood restaurant. Opened in 1895, the Kiel Canal, which connects the North Sea to the Baltic Sea, is the world's busiest artificial waterway. You can get a close-up view of one of the Holtenau locks at the mouth of the canal from a viewing platform overlooking it. It's among the multitude of options offered by luxury small ship line Regent Seven Seas Cruises on Baltic sailings, where all excursions are included. Foodies can opt for a tour of Denmark's Bornholm Island to try wine from Europe's northernmost wine-growing region, artisan sausages and the smoked herring that's a mainstay in Scandinavian and Baltic countries. • Best budget cruises in the Mediterranean• Best Rhine river cruisesWith its Scandinavian heritage — the line's owner Torstein Hagen is Norwegian — Viking knows a thing or two about the region. The longest voyage is a 28-night journey combining the Viking Homelands and Into the Midnight Sun itineraries. With a focus on cultural immersion, you can join the executive chef for a shopping trip around Gdansk food market followed by a cooking lesson back onboard. Or hear Viking tales straight from the horse's mouth on a riding tour against the backdrop of dramatic jagged peaks on Gimsoya island in the Lofoten archipelago. If you enjoy being active, Silversea has plenty of excursions to get your heart pumping. Visits to Nuuksio National Park outside Helsinki include hiking and a cooling dip in the lake, cycling or stand up paddleboarding. If that sounds like hard work, how about a leisurely food and drink tour in the Finnish capital to try delicacies ranging from deer meat to crunchy seasonal currants, beer and even chocolate? You'll continue to eat well back onboard the 596-guest Silver Dawn where the S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) restaurant serves Baltic might not expect to find a beach resort in Norway, but Kristiansand — the country's southernmost city — is one of many surprises on this itinerary. There's also the 19th-century Ravnedalen Park, home to exotic imported plants and some of Norway's largest native spruce trees. Sailing on to Stavanger, another unlikely attraction is the Petroleum Museum charting the city's lucrative path to becoming the oil capital of Norway and with some fun interactive exhibits. Relax back onboard the 458-passenger Seabourn Quest where room service includes dinner from the restaurant served course by course, rather than all at once. Celebrity's stylish Edge-class ships are among the vessels sailing in this region. Keep an eye out for special dinners held in the Magic Carpet — the glass-sided room suspended on the side of the ship — held once or twice per cruise. They showcase local ingredients and are only announced at the last minute, when the chef knows there's enough to create a mouth-watering menu. In Copenhagen, excursions include walking tours that take in the fairytale heritage of storyteller Hans Christian Andersen, who lived next to the Nyhavn canal; and charming Tivoli Gardens, one of the world's oldest amusement parks. Alternatively, enjoy a bird's eye view of the city on the tour featuring a meal at the restaurant in the tower of the Danish parliament building. French line Ponant is known for its gourmet cuisine. In Gdansk, shore tours include the opportunity to sip Goldwasser, the strong herbal liquor that's been produced in the city since 1598 and contains real flakes of gold. Foodies can book a Latvian cookery class in Riga with a visit to Europe's largest indoor market to get ingredients. You'll get a real taste for the Baltics in every sense as in addition to Riga this seven-night cruise visits four other capitals; Stockholm, Tallinn, Helsinki and on Holland America Line's 2,668-passenger Rotterdam, which sets out from its namesake port on a two-week voyage to Baltic and Scandinavian capitals. One of the first stops is Oslo, with time to visit the Maritime Museum with its 9th-century Viking boat. And there's a visit to Stockholm too, where you can stroll around the city's dozens of islands linked by bridges and join locals for a traditional snack of meatballs or herring with a cold Zeebrugge, Copenhagen and Latvia's captial Riga — with its Unesco-listed historic centre — are just some of the ports of call on Norwegian Cruise Line's 12-night Baltic itinerary. Discover more history by adding an overnight stay to your final stop in Stockholm, where the Vasa, which sank on its maiden voyage, is the world's only preserved 17th-century ship. You'll be sailing on the Norwegian Dawn, with a capacity of 2,290 guests — a happy medium if you want a ship that's not too big but with plenty of entertainment. • Best small-ship Mediterranean cruise lines• Best Danube cruises for your next European sailing Additional reporting by Siobhan Grogan
