How to Care for Your Cycling Gear

Knowing how to care for your cycling gear properly is essential if you want your kit to last. Your cycling kit works hard for you — through sweat, heat, rain, long miles, and tough conditions. But without proper care, even the best gear can lose its fit, comfort, and performance far too soon.

At Borah Teamwear, we design every piece to last. With the right maintenance, your custom kit can stay comfortable, supportive, and race-ready for years.

Here’s everything you need to know about caring for your cycling garments — from washing and drying to long-term upkeep.

Why Proper Care for Cycling Gear Matters

Taking care of your cycling apparel isn’t just about appearance. It directly impacts:

• Product lifespan
• Performance and comfort
• Fabric breathability
• Chamois support
• Color vibrancy
• Overall fit

Well-maintained gear means fewer replacements, better rides, and more value from your investment.

1. Wash After Every Ride

Sweat, bacteria, and oils build up quickly in cycling apparel — especially in bibs and shorts. Even if your kit “looks” clean, leftover moisture and bacteria can:

• Cause odor
• Break down fabric fibers
• Damage padding
• Reduce elasticity

Best Practice: Wash your kit as soon as possible after riding. If you can’t wash right away, hang it to air dry instead of leaving it bundled in a bag.

2. Use Cold Water and Gentle Cycles

Heat is one of the biggest enemies of performance fabrics. Hot water can:

• Break down elastic fibers
• Fade colors
• Reduce compression
• Damage technical materials

Recommended Settings:

• Temperature: 30°C / 86°F (Cold)
• Cycle: Delicate or gentle
• Spin: Low to medium

These settings clean effectively without stressing the fabric.

3. Choose the Right Detergent

Not all detergents are created equal. Avoid detergents that contain:

• Bleach
• Fabric softeners
• Brighteners
• Heavy fragrances

These additives leave residue that clogs breathable fabrics and weakens fibers.

Best Option: Use a mild, neutral detergent designed for technical or athletic wear.

4. Air Dry Always

Tumble dryers create intense heat and friction that can permanently damage cycling apparel.

Dryers can:

• Shrink garments
• Warp chamois padding
• Break elastic fibers

Best Practice: Hang dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Your kit will last much longer — and fit better.

Final Checklist: Cycling Gear Care Essentials

• Wash after every ride
• Cold water only
• Gentle detergent
• No fabric softener
• Hang dry

When you understand how to care for your cycling gear correctly, you protect your investment and improve long-term performance. Follow this routine, and your gear will thank you.

Borah: Built to Last

Borah cycling apparel is handcrafted in Wisconsin using premium technical fabrics. We’re proud to build gear that lasts — and we’re here to help you get the most from it. With proper care, your Borah kit will continue performing season after season.