Short answer: cycling apparel fabrics should not focus only on waterproofness; wind protection, breathability, stretch, light weight and movement comfort matter together.
Key Takeaways
- High-intensity cycling prioritizes breathability and moisture management.
- Spring/autumn outer layers need wind protection and light water repellency.
- Long rain rides require higher-level waterproof-breathable lamination.
What makes cycling different
Cycling involves forward body posture, high wind exposure, localized stretch and often high sweat output. A fabric focused only on waterproofness can feel clammy; a fabric focused only on breathability may not protect enough from wind chill or light rain.
Cycling fabrics therefore need a balance between outer protection and inner moisture management.
Recommended function package
Urban cycling and commuting can use lightweight wind-resistant dense fabrics with DWR and moderate stretch. Performance riding needs more breathability, light weight and recovery. Long-distance or rainy rides should evaluate waterproof-breathable lamination and seam solutions.
For cycling outerwear, test hydrostatic pressure, moisture permeability, spray rating, tear strength, abrasion and stretch recovery.
TTK development direction
TTK can combine Turis membrane options, water-repellent finishing, calendering and lamination to create different cycling fabric performance tiers.
TTK Recommendation
Cycling fabric selection should start from riding intensity, weather risk and layering system rather than one waterproof number.
FAQ
Do cycling garments always need waterproof fabric?
Not always. Commuting and dry riding need wind protection, breathability and DWR; long rainy rides need higher waterproofness.
Why is stretch important?
Cycling posture stresses shoulders, back, knees and waist; stretch and recovery affect movement comfort.
Next Step
Contact TTK for fabric development suggestions for cycling jackets, cycling pants and lightweight wind layers.