Just like cycling bells or cycling gloves, the cycling cap is part of the sport and has hardly changed its design and style since it was invented. Cycling caps originally gained popularity in the 1950s and were widely worn well into the early 1990s, when helmets started to become more common among professional riders. Once they became a trend at the turn of the new millennium it wasn't until the early 2000s that the cycling cap started to become a relic of the past.
As safety becomes a bigger part of everyday thinking, the biggest influence on safety is the fact that you're less likely to get out on your bike with helmets that are almost universally worn. However, there still is a place for cycling caps, and they are still useful bits of cycling kit.
Cycling caps are designed to comfortably sit under your helmet with no pressure points. On top of that, a properly fitted cycling cap will provide fantastic protection from the wind, rain, sun, and glare. Consider these factors while buying a cycling cap in 2024:
1.Material
Cycling caps come in three forms: thermal, moisture-wicking, and old school, not so technical, just made from the finest cotton material. Every material has its uniqueness on its own. Each one of them is suited only for a particular ride.
2.Wool
Wool's great for cold-weather cycling caps because it keeps you warm when it rains. There are some, such as Pearl Izumi's Transfer, that blend merino wool with synthetic fibers, including polyester, to produce a cloth that's lightweight and tough.
Synthetics are versatile since they're lightweight and breathable and can be used in mesh or woven, or as yarn in fleecy microfiber fabrics. Some are made from UV-resistant fabrics to protect you from the sun, or coated in a layer of Durable Water Repellent (DWR) to help you protect yourself from rain.
3.Cotton
If you choose cotton, then you must be Spike Lee and don't give a flying whatever about the technical performance of your upturned "Brooklyn" cycling. After all, it's a cotton gravity-defying fashion item. Cotton caps won't breathe well or keep you in particular especially when your sweat turns cold-but we included some favorite designs from brands such as Ten Speed Hero and Machines for Freedom for off-the-bike style.
Best cycling caps 2024
Here are some best cycling caps in 2024 that La Byci has listed:
1. Rapha Cap II
There is a refreshing twist on the classic cycling cap in the Rapha Cap. It is made with highly breathable organic cotton in a classic quartered design for lightweight performance and quick-drying comfort. The anatomic brim keeps rain, wind, and sun off your eyes and sits comfortably below your helmet. Seams are placed in strategic positions to reduce pressure around the brim, while the elastic band provides comfort and fit.
Any rider would wish not to miss out on this cycling cap that is designed with the classy quartered idea that has never run out of fashion. It is built from highly organic breathable cotton, lightweight, and quick-drying. It is comfortable in all weather. The seams are strategically placed to reduce pressure around the brim and give the best available experience to the rider. These range in size from Small-Medium-53cm to 58cm to Medium-Large-58cm to 64cm and therefore fit almost all head sizes.
2. Assos Classic Cycling Cap
A truly revived classic, balancing tradition with aspired, contemporary textiles. For Spring, Summer, and Autumn, this cycling cap has come into its own, maintaining the iconic look of the cycling cap and updating it with technological functionality. We replaced the normal cotton with a lightweight mesh fabric that pulls moisture and most importantly coaxes cooling air to your dome, keeping it cool in even the hottest rides. The cap comes with a large, contrasting center stripe, potent with historical undertones, that has gone years without a redesign. Available in sizes to fit heads of between 48 to 61 cm circumferences, this cap returns just the right mix of style, tradition, and innovation.
3. Endura PRO SL Winter Cap
This is a Pro SL Cap for winter from Endura. It's a bit closer fitting than Galibier. Might be a good shot if you have a slightly smaller head. It covers the ears and neck while having reflective detailing front and rear for extra visibility in low light. A slightly racier fit but without the low-slung neck as the Galibier does.
4. MAAP Evade 5 Panel Cap
The MAAP Evade 5 panel Cap is designed from recycled polyester and works on or off the bike. Lighter construction means it sits comfortably under your helmet but works off the bike or at the end of a ride. It's a nice option for traveling and for an easy ride with a more relaxed style than a typical cycling cap. Also, read our MAAP Training Jersey Review.
Should you wear a cycling cap with an aero helmet?
You aren't going to see many riders riding with a cycling cap under a full-blown aero helmet. It would affect the fit, especially the peak. However, some riders choose to wear a headband under a TT helmet to help fit, catch sweat, and stop the helmet from moving.
The best aero road helmets will still utilize a cap, but within the racing circles, they tend to be reserved for those colder early-season races of late. Read more about How should a bike helmet fit