The 9 Best Lesser-Known Cycling Apparel Brands for Women

Field magazine

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an eager amateur, cycling can sometimes be an intimidating sport for women. Adding to the issue, the frustration of finding gear that fits properly and is designed specifically for women’s needs is all too real. Even as attention and interest in women’s cycling are improving—note the recent expansion of the Tour de France Femmes—wage gaps for professional female cyclists are still disparate. (The men’s Tour winner gets €500,000 while the women’s champion only receives €50,000.)

In the apparel world, cycling brands and technical garment innovation are still vastly focused on men’s performance. But, at long last, the cycling world is embracing women—and creating a boom in women’s-focused apparel that’s reshaping the look, feel, and performance aspect of women’s wear. Paired with a simultaneous shift in cycling culture wherein brands are recognizing that providing apparel and gear options for everyday recreationalists (not just high-performance athletes) is a wise choice, there’s now more options than ever when it comes to gearing up for a ride.

While there are many reputable, well-known cycling brands making strides in the world of women’s cycling through apparel innovation and team sponsorship—such as MAAP, Rapha, Le Col, Velocio, and others—a lot of the excitement is coming from the lesser-known names that are empowering women in the sport. The cycling brands featured on this list are either completely women’s-focused, women-owned, intentionally unisex, or are making a mention-worthy effort in the world of women’s cycling. Making clothing for athletes and everyday explorers, periods and pregnancy, these women’s cycling brands are ensuring that riding bikes is for all.