Cycling Jersey Care Instruction

Every Ride Style Custom jersey is engineered to deliver maximum performance, comfort, and standout style on the road or trail. However, high-performance technical fabrics require specific care to maintain their stretch, moisture-wicking capabilities, and vibrant prints.

Follow this comprehensive guide to keep your cycling apparel looking and performing like new, mile after mile.

1. The Golden Rules of Cycling Gear Care

No matter which jersey you own, always follow these five essential steps before tossing it in the wash:

• Zip It Up & Turn It Inside Out: Always zip up the front and any pocket zippers, then turn the jersey inside out. This protects the outer surface of the fabric and keeps those vibrant sublimated prints from fading or snagging against other items.

• Say “NO” to Fabric Softeners: Fabric softeners leave a waxy residue that coats the fibers. This clogs the micro-pores of the fabric, completely ruining its breathability and moisture-wicking properties.

• Wash in Cold Water: Heat is the enemy of technical gear. Always wash your jerseys in cold water (under 30°C / 86°F). Hot water will break down the elastane/spandex fibers and cause colors to bleed.

• Use a Mesh Laundry Bag: If you are washing your jersey with other items, put it in a mesh delicates bag. This protects the delicate technical fabrics from abrasive materials like Velcro straps, hooks, or heavy denim zippers.

• Air Dry Only: Never put your cycling jersey in the dryer and never use an iron. The high heat from a tumble dryer will shrink the fabric, warp the shape, and destroy the elasticity. Simply hang your jersey up to air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

2. Material-Specific Care Guide

A. Synthetic & Sublimated Jerseys (Polyester Blends)

Profile: Our most popular everyday jerseys. They are incredibly lightweight, wick sweat instantly, and hold onto intricate print-on-demand designs perfectly.

• How to Wash: Use a mild, liquid laundry detergent. It’s best to wash these as soon as possible after your ride so acidic sweat doesn’t have time to break down the fibers.

• Pro Tip: If you can’t do laundry immediately after a long, sweaty ride, take the jersey into the shower with you to rinse it out with cold water, then hang it up to dry until laundry day.

B. Aero & Compression Jerseys

Profile: Designed for speed with a second-skin fit. These jerseys utilize a much higher percentage of Spandex/Lycra, featuring ultra-thin, smooth fabrics and thermo-taped seams.

• How to Wash: Aero fabrics are highly sensitive to twisting and pulling. If using a washing machine, you must use the Gentle or Delicate cycle.

• Pro Tip: If you choose to hand wash, simply squeeze the soapy water through the fabric. Never wring or vigorously twist the jersey, as this will snap the delicate compression threads and ruin the aerodynamic fit.

C. Merino Wool Blends

Profile: Premium jerseys often favored for long-distance touring, gravel riding, or cooler weather. Merino wool naturally regulates body temperature and is highly odor-resistant.

• How to Wash: Use a wool-specific wash or a pH-neutral liquid detergent. Avoid heavy-duty enzymatic cleaners.

• Pro Tip: Because Merino is naturally antimicrobial, it doesn’t need to be washed after every single ride unless it’s heavily soiled. Just hang it in a breezy spot to air out. Never hang a wet Merino jersey on a hanger—the weight of the water will stretch out the shoulders and body. Always lay it flat to dry on a drying rack.

D. Water-Resistant & Windproof Layers (Outerwear)

Profile: Jackets, gilets, or thermal winter jerseys treated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating that causes water to bead up and roll off.

• How to Wash: Keep these far away from standard laundry detergents, which contain surfactants that will strip the DWR coating. Instead, use a tech wash specifically designed for outdoor gear (like Nikwax Tech Wash).

• Pro Tip: After about 10 to 15 washes, you might notice water soaking into the fabric instead of beading up. When this happens, use a wash-in or spray-on DWR reproofer to restore the jersey’s weather-blocking shield.

One Last Note: Always double-check the care tag sewn into the collar or side seam of your jersey before washing, as limited-edition collections may have unique care requirements. Proper maintenance doesn’t just extend the lifespan of your gear—it protects your investment in the ride!