For a criterium, wear a race-cut short-sleeve jersey, bib shorts with a chamois built for about an hour of hard riding, and nothing that can flap, catch or hang loose. This guide covers the jersey, the shorts, cold-weather options and race numbers for a race of 45 to 90 minutes on a short, technical circuit.
What jersey do you wear for a crit?
A race-cut short-sleeve jersey that sits close to the body. You are riding in a bunch at speed, so loose fabric flaps and loses you comfort and a little speed. Pockets matter less than usual because you carry almost nothing. See the race cut vs relaxed fit comparison, then browse men's jerseys and women's jerseys.
Does an aero jersey matter in a criterium?
A little, and mostly through fit. At crit speeds you spend much of the race in the bunch, so a snug, wrinkle-free jersey does more than any single fabric claim. Read how aero jerseys work before paying for it.
Which bib shorts for a 60-minute race?
Bib shorts with a multi-density chamois that stays put under repeated hard accelerations out of corners. You do not need the thickest chamois for an hour, you need one that does not shift. More density does not mean more thickness. Check the fit in how tight bib shorts should be, then see all bib shorts.
What if the morning is cold?
Warm up in arm warmers and take them off before the start, because you cannot stop and strip off mid-race. If it stays cold, a thin base layer under the jersey is easier to manage than a heavier jersey. Compare options in base layers.
How do you pin a race number?
Flat and flush on the back of the jersey, with a pin at each corner and one in the middle of long edges, so it does not flap or snag in a bunch. A close jersey cut keeps the number flat. Use the number given at sign-on, and pin it on before your warm-up, not on the start line.
What about socks and shoes?
Socks are a small fit detail: a snug cuff stays in place and looks tidy. If you race aero, see aero socks, or browse cycling socks.
How is a crit different from other races?
It is shorter and sharper than a road race, so the kit is lighter and closer, and you carry less. For longer events see what to wear for your first road race. For solo effort against the clock see time trial kit.
Quick answers
Do I need pockets in a criterium?
Rarely. Most riders carry nothing or a single gel, so pockets matter far less than fit.
Should I wear a base layer?
Only if it is cold. In warm conditions skip it to avoid overheating over an hour of hard effort.
Is a one-piece suit allowed?
That depends on the event rules, so check the race briefing before you buy.
Build your race kit: the DTR jersey range.
DTR — performance cycling and triathlon apparel, designed and developed in Ukraine.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.