Your cycling jersey is the foundation of your kit. For new riders, it might be the first real piece of cycling clothing you invest in. (Don’t worry, the bibs, gloves, sunglasses, caps, vests, and windbreakers won’t be far behind!) And for seasoned cyclists, it’s the go-to piece that ties your whole kit together.
Still, it can be tough to pick out your first—or next—cycling jersey. You might be wondering how it should fit, which size will feel best, or which style matches your type of riding. And if you’re new to cycling, you may also think, “Does my cycling jersey really have to be that tight?” We promise—there’s a reason every pro in the Tour de France wears a skin-hugging jersey.
Like all clothing in a cycling kit, your jersey is designed to keep you comfortable and help you perform your best on any ride—and in any climate. Whether you’re fending off a brutal wind chill or wicking sweat on a hot day, having the right jersey on your back is essential for any cyclist.
That’s where this cycling jersey fit guide can help.
We’ll break down what to look for in a bike jersey, different sizes and fits to choose from, and how to build a custom jersey that fits your needs so you can cycle in style.
What is a cycling jersey?
A cycling jersey is a shirt designed for the movement, posture, performance, and comfort of a cyclist. It’s built with technical, moisture-wicking fabrics that pull sweat away from your skin to keep you cool and dry. The close, aero fit reduces draft, and flatlock seams and stretch panels prevent chafing on long rides.
Most jerseys include rear cargo pockets to hold snacks or a phone, a full-length or half zipper to provide easy ventilation, and silicone grippers at the hem to keep the jersey in place while you ride. High-quality jerseys often add UPF sun protection and reflective details for low-light visibility.
A cycling jersey can be worn on its own on hot days, over a base layer on cooler days, under a jacket or vest in winter. It’s made from materials that keep moisture out and prevent chafing. For one piece of clothing, a cycling jersey offers a lot, and we wouldn’t recommend replacing a jersey for anything else, no matter how new you are to cycling.
How tight should a cycling jersey be?
Your jersey should fit close to the body—snug enough that it won’t flap in the wind, yet never so tight that it limits breathing or shoulder movement. Riders who care about speed or long-distance comfort usually choose a tighter, performance cut, while casual cyclists may prefer a slightly more relaxed fit. Avoid jerseys that hang loose: Extra fabric creates drag, bunches at the waist, and can chafe on long rides.
For new cyclists, it’s easy to think, “Hey, if I’m just riding with friends on the weekend or commuting a couple miles to work, do I really need to look like I’m at the starting line of the Giro d’Italia?” The short answer is: No, of course not. But you might still choose a pro-style fit once you feel the difference. The best jersey is the one that keeps you comfortable and matches how you ride. If you care about speed, long-distance comfort, or simply want fabric that won’t flap and chafe, a closer, performance cut is worth it.
Characteristics of a well-fitting cycling jersey
A well-fitting jersey should come with these key attributes:
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No front bunching: When you lean forward as if you’re on the bars, the fabric across your stomach should lie flat without creating folds. Extra material here catches air and can rub uncomfortably.
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Smooth shoulder movement: When you reach for the drops and rotate your arms, the jersey should stretch naturally without pulling at the shoulder seams or tightening across the upper back.
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Sleeves that stay put: Whether you’re climbing out of the saddle or tucked into an aero position, the sleeves should hold their place mid-bicep without riding up or cutting off circulation.
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Stable hem: As you pedal, the back hem should stay anchored and keep you covered. If it rides up or shifts noticeably, the fit is too loose.
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Comfortable, second-skin feel: You should feel a light, supportive hug—snug enough that nothing flaps in the wind, yet never so tight that it restricts breathing or chest expansion.
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Room for intended layering: If you plan to wear a thin base layer in cool weather, check the fit with that layer on. You want enough space for comfort without creating air pockets that reduce the jersey’s aerodynamic benefit.
Getting these details right means your jersey should deliver comfort and speed whether you’re chasing a PR or cruising with friends.
Which size cycling jersey should you buy?
Once you know what type of cycling jersey you need, it’s time to find your size and fit. While each brand has its own sizing measurement and recommendations, we’ll break down our Hincapie cycling jersey fit and sizing for you here.
First, our jerseys come in regular sizes of XS, S, M, L, XL, and 2XL. Our sizes are based on chest measurements, but you may also want to measure your waist for the best fit through your mid-section.
Here’s how to find your cycling jersey measurements:
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Chest: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, just below your underarm.
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Arms: Measure the circumference of your bicep at the thickest area.
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Waist: Measure around your natural waistline.
Once you have your measurements, consult our sizing guide to pinpoint your optimal fit.
If you think you’re between sizes, we recommend going with the larger size. For example, if your chest measures M but your waist measures L, choose a size L.
3 types of cycling jersey fits
There aren’t just different cycling jersey sizes to consider; there are also different types of jersey fits for all kinds of riding—from recreational coffee trips to races and criteriums.
To help you decide, we’ll explain each type and share a few of our favorite pro-tested jerseys:
1. Relaxed-fit bike jerseys
If you’re a social cyclist or weekend warrior who loves riding for recreation or stopping for a bite to eat with friends, then you may be most comfortable in a loose-fitting cycling jersey. That’s where our club-fit jerseys come in. They’re great when you just want to enjoy a leisurely ride and you aren’t worried about hitting new PBs (personal bests).
We recommend: Men's Axis Club Short Sleeve Jersey ($90) and Women's Axis Club Short Sleeve Jersey ($90)
Build a custom relaxed-fit jersey: Put your own spin on a Men's Custom Axis Club Short Sleeve Jersey or Women's Custom Axis Club Short Sleeve Jersey for a comfortable and stylish ride.
2. Race-fit bike jerseys
Race-fit cycling jerseys are great for all types of cyclists, from amateurs to pros. They’re slim-fitting and provide aerodynamic benefits while still giving room for breathability.
We recommend: Men's Velocity Short Sleeve Jersey ($130) and Women's Velocity Short Sleeve Jersey ($90)
Build a custom race-fit jersey: Create your own version of our best-selling Men's Custom Velocity Short Sleeve Jersey or Women's Custom Velocity Short Sleeve Jersey for a lightweight and breathable fit.
3. Pro-fit bike jerseys
Pro-fit jerseys are super snug and designed for maximum aerodynamic enhancement. While anyone can opt for a pro jersey, they’re a go-to for really serious, competitive cyclists trying to up their speeds and make every second count.
We recommend: Men’s HRC Jersey ($150) and Women’s HRC Jersey ($150)
Build a custom pro-fit jersey: Style a sleek Men's Custom Firma Short Sleeve Jersey or Women’s Custom Firma Short Sleeve Jersey, meticulously engineered to enhance your performance.
Must-have features of a cycling jersey
Every good cycling jersey—no matter the style—checks a few essential boxes. When you’re shopping for yours, make sure it has all the characteristics needed for a comfortable ride, including:
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Moisture-wicking fabric: Choose a jersey that helps maintain your core temperature by keeping sweat off your body. If you occasionally ride in rainy weather, you can also opt for a rain shell that fits nicely in your pocket and is easy to pull out when showers hit.
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Wind-repellant structure: If you’re up against strong winds, especially in winter, you need a jersey that stops those heavy breezes from slowing you down or giving you a chill. For example, you might choose a long-sleeved jersey with sealed cuffs and a form-fitting structure to reduce wind drag.
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Breathable materials: Your jersey needs to provide you with plenty of airflow in warm or cool weather. A full mesh jersey or one with strategically placed mesh panels will keep your kit from becoming too stifling.
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Pockets for storage: Pockets are precious since you can pack them with all your cycling essentials, like energy gels, extra layers, keys, your phone, and a handy repair kit.
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Breathable panels: A jersey with panels provides a closer, contoured fit for better flexibility and comfort. Panels can also have different features, like mesh for breathability on the sides.
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Zippers: Zippers allow you to adjust the temperature of your ride and get a little extra airflow or warmth. You might opt for a full zip, half zip, or ¾ zip. But we like full zips best for greater temperature control.
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UV protection: The fibers of your jersey should be stitched to keep the sun’s UV rays from scorching your skin and provide some level of SPF protection.
What are the best fabrics for a cycling jersey?
Yes, cotton is comfy, but it’s best to save this fabric for your cozy sweaters and everyday T-shirts. Remember: Cotton is never a good material for a cycling jersey. Cotton bunches, soaks, smells, and chafes, which leads to a rough and painful ride.
Instead, the optimal fabrics for bike jerseys include:
A synthetic blend of polyester and lycra
A synthetic blend of materials is the most common choice for a cycling jersey. Polyester and lycra are excellent for wicking moisture and giving plenty of ventilation. The elasticity of the fibers gives you flexibility and a snug, aerodynamic fit.
Merino wool
Merino sheep are a very soft breed whose wool regulates their temperature in both cold and warm climates. These features make merino wool perfect for a cycling jersey. It’s naturally antibacterial and moisture-wicking. It’s also the most sustainable option for a cycling jersey. However, merino wool can be more expensive, and it doesn’t provide the same level of elasticity as a synthetic blend.
When to design a custom cycling jersey
A well-fitting jersey is essential for performance and comfort. But there are times when an off-the-rack option isn’t enough—when you want your kit to tell a story or represent a group.
For example, you might design a custom jersey for:
Cycling teams and clubs
Custom jerseys create a unified, professional look that helps teammates stand out and ride stronger together. They showcase team colors, logos, and sponsor graphics—without sacrificing performance.
Charity rides and special events
From single-day fundraisers to multi-day tours, a custom jersey turns participants into moving billboards for the cause. It’s a wearable keepsake that builds community and keeps the mission in motion.
Corporate wellness programs
For companies hosting group rides or wellness challenges, custom jerseys offer a polished way to promote employee engagement and brand visibility—on and off the bike.
Non-profit organizations
Advocacy groups, cycling collectives, and community programs can use custom jerseys to spread awareness and give supporters something functional and memorable to wear proudly.
Individuals and small groups
Marking a milestone ride? Celebrating a personal achievement? Wanting a design that reflects your unique style? A custom jersey lets you create something one-of-a-kind—with the perfect fit and personal flair.
Create a cycling jersey that rides with purpose—designed just for you, your team, your organization, or your next event. →
Create a custom cycling jersey—fit just for you
Whether you’re buying a jersey for yourself, your club, or your pro team, Hincapie makes it easy to design a custom kit fit to your needs. Just choose from our collections for all types of riders, add your design, and get a quote for your one-of-a-kind cycling jersey.
With a custom jersey at the heart of your kit, you can maximize comfort and performance—and show off your unique style on every ride.
Still weighing your options or have questions? Connect with an expert to get started.
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