Whether we’re talking about Sheikh Zayed Road, the Metro or even the Dubai Tram, the commute is starting to become progressively slow, hot and full of people that you’d rather not have next to you (and if you don’t know what we mean, then that person is you).
It is time, therefore, to say sod it and get on your bike: particularly as the cooler, winter months get underway.
Presenting: the ideal kit (other than, y’know, a bike) to get you started. Some is for Lycra loving pedal-heads, some is for style conscious commuters, but it’s all good.
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Assos Boxers
The Swiss brand makes some of the lightest, most comfortable, most aerodynamic bike wear at the top end of the market, such as the Campionissomo S7, their elite bib shorts (£295), which are so good they should only be reserved for when you’re on your best riding form, apparently. But if you’re less inclined to go for the full pro cyclist look, you can appreciate the Swiss’ expertise in their padded boxers, which go right under your normal trousers. The padded insert is thick enough to offer improved comfort on the bike, but thin enough that it won’t impede on movement when you’re off the bike.
Levi’s Commuter Jeans
Most denim isn’t ideal for cycling, but the jeans from Levi’s commuter range is bang on (and means you don’t have to scrimp on style). It’s strong, water repellent, stretchy and reflective, plus most jeans in the collection feature a U-lock holder on the waistband.
Braun Body Grooming Kit
For those of you that like to go all out and bald-up those legs, have you consider an epilator? Shaving or waxing is fine, but the results don’t last as long, plus you have to wait for the hair to grow back enough to be shaved again. Taken from Braun’s new beard, hair and body styling range, the grooming kit epilator can remove hairs as short as 0.5mm, and it even works in the shower.
Brooks Messenger Bag
With padded compartments for your tablet or laptop and various pockets for everything else, Brooks’ Crosby shoulder bag is great for the commute, especially as it has an extra strap that goes around your waist to stop the bag swinging around.
Oakley Sunglasses
Rimless for an excellent field of vision and polarized Plutonite lenses that filter out 100% of UVA, UVB, UVC and blue light, there aren’t many better sports sunglasses on the market.
Huez Starman Wind Gilet
It keeps light showers at bay, lessens the wind’s chill and weighs less than 100g, but the Starman’s most appealing aspect is the quick burst zip, that can be ripped open at a moment’s notice.£115, huez.co.uk
Uniqlo T-Shirt
Part of the high street store’s Urban Active range, this Tee is quick drying, so if you get a little sweaty on the ride into work, it won’t show. Better still, it’s cut from super light fabric, allowing for greater movability and comfort.
Clinique Targeted Protection Stick
It’s easy to forget the sun beating down on your face and neck when you’re on a ride, so slap on some protection before heading out, and tuck in your back pocket for a top up along the way.
Herschel Day/Night Backpack
If you’re riding at night you need to be as visible as possible, which is why Herschel’s new Day/Night range is perfect. The backpack, which stuffs away into itself when not needed, is not only reflective, but water-resistant too.
Full Windsor Nutter Bike Tool
Finally, get yourself a tool that will fix any ills on your bike. There’s lots on the market, but few are as well comprehensive and easily stowed as Full Windsor’s Nutter. It does everything you need and more. You could do a lot worse than this handy mudguard too.
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Esquire is a media partner of this year’s Spinney’s Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge. The event takes place on December 16. Click here for details on how to sign up
