Biking Gloves - Reflective

I love these biking gloves with the reflective patches on the back. And before anyone jumps down my throat, I know, I know - reflective material is only useful at slow speeds from 30 feet away or less. But that's why these are perfect! They are meant for signaling to someone nearby that you're going to change direction. The only people who would care about that are drivers and cyclists within 30 feet.

Riding in the dark demands extra attention to safety. If you get hit, it might be the other person's fault, but you're the one who is dead or seriously injured, so be in charge of your own rescue and use the following:

• flashing tail light
• headlight
• LED arm band
• reflective material on ankles or back

And, for when it's time to deviate from the course, these brilliant gloves with the reflective patches and arrows that say, "I'm going THAT way!"

Caveat: the gloves themselves are not great. They're a semi-tight knit that has no water repellent elements. So, these are only good for cool, dry weather or over something warmer and drier. 

Ride safe. Don't be ashamed to be the cycling equivalent of a disco ball. Looking forward to seeing you out there.

What to Wear Biking...to/from Work

I bike to work at least once a week because it: doesn't pollute, doesn't give me road rage, gives me a workout, is fun, is way more scenic than highway.

Whatever your reason, here's a random assortment of possibly helpful tips for biking to and/or from the office.

1. Map your ride - riding to work isn't just about getting to the office. Turn the everyday into something better by taking a different route. Take a side street or cut through a park or both!
2. Plan your gear - depending on how long your ride and how much your sweat, you may have some flexibility with gear. I take my bike on the train in the morning, so I only have a 1-mile ride, allowing me to arrive in my work clothes. Going home, I bike the entire distance, so I wear cycling gear. This saves time on arrival (no changing) and fewer people have to see me in bike shorts. If you have a long ride or sweat at the mere thought of cycling, wear gear and change in the handicap stall (more room so you won't drop a pant leg into the toilet while getting dressed). Important: no matter what your plan, figure it out the night before and pack accordingly. There's nothing worse than planning on changing at work and realizing you forgot shoes.
3. Do a practice ride - especially important if you're planning on riding in your work clothes. Do you have any idea how sweaty you get when riding in pants and a button down shirt? Can you even peddle in your skinny jeans? Is there a hill that seems like a gentle slope in the car but is actually a mile climb?
4. Be safe - in the summer, more daylight makes us feel more visible but being seen is always an issue when cycling. There is no shame in being a human torch if it saves your life. Bright yellow vests and jackets are best in summer daylight but at night, get lit! And don't just think about what's ahead, remember the car approaching from behind. Reflective gear is good when traffic is going under 25mph. Bright, flashing lights are needed for anything faster.
5. Remember your bike lock - you never know when you might want to stop and smell the flowers. Be prepared to pause with a lock. Also, some offices don't let bikes in. If that's your situation, politely raise a ruckus - if FedEx trolleys are allowed in, so should bikes - and lock up outside until your ruckus gets results.  

It probably would also be smart to learn how to change a flat and carry a flat-tire kit. I don't so do as I say and not as I do. Or don't. Most importantly, enjoy the ride!