If there is an iconic object in classic cycling, it is undoubtedly the cycling cap. Today we think of the way great racers like Eddy Merckx, Luis Ocaña, Bernard Hinault, Pedro Delgado and Miguel Indurain used the cap in terms of a “vintage” glamorous image.
In the early twentieth century, the cycling cap was the most visible item used by cyclists, and the most coveted by brands for placing their logos and symbols. Its use did not begin to decline until the helmet was made compulsory as a basic item for cyclists’ safety. But the cycling cap is being used once again – and increasingly so glamorous – not only as an item in cycling aesthetics and for nostalgic reasons, but also because it is very useful all year round.
Not just any cap can be used for cycling. Cycling caps have to fit more tightly to the head and have a shorter peak than traditional or casual caps, so that they are not blown away by the wind when the cyclist picks up speed.
THE CYCLING CAP IN SUMMER
The cycling cap is always worn under the protective helmet for protection from the summer sun and acts as a barrier for the sweat from the head, preventing it from falling onto the forehead and into the eyes.
But the cycling cap also provides particular protection from the sun’s rays that shine directly onto the head. And taking into account that the vast majority of helmets have an increasing amount of openings for ventilation, the cycling cap provides protection from the sun’s rays entering through these openings.
THE CYCLING CAP IN SPRING, AUTUMN AND WINTER
But if the the cycling cap has a particularly practical use, it is at times when the cold appears, and the rain in particular. In the cold, a cap provides protection from the icy wind that enters through the openings in cycling helmets.
And in the rain, the peak of the cycling cap effectively prevents the cyclist’s vision from being blocked, especially if glasses are being worn. It also provides protection from the drops of mud that are thrown up behind other cyclists.
THE CYCLING CAP AS AN ITEM OF CLOTHING
Because of the highly practical reasons for wearing a cap in the sun, heat, cold and rain, the cap has gained enthusiasts as a glamorous item in cycling wear in recent years. With all types of aesthetics and designs, the cycling cap has come back to stay as an essential part of a cyclist’s outfit.
That is why Inverse, apart from offering our customised cycling caps service for clubs, groups, companies and as an advertising item for merchandising, has launched a wide range of limited edition collection caps onto the market, featuring all kinds of creative and fun designs for all types of cyclists.
