LIE-krah tightz
Noun
A type of cycling apparel generally made of spandex or lycra.
Example usage: 'I'm so glad I wore my lycra-tights today, it's been a chilly ride.'
Most used in: Cycling communities across the world.
Most used by: Road cyclists and mountain bikers.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 6/10
Also see: Bib-shorts, Cycling-tights, Compression-tights, Lycra-shorts,
What are Lycra-Tights in Cycling?
Lycra-tights are form-fitting cycling shorts made from a spandex-Lycra blend fabric. They are designed to be worn by cyclists while riding their bikes, and provide a snug fit and support for their legs. The fabric is lightweight and breathable, allowing for a comfortable ride even in hot and humid weather.
Lycra-tights are often worn by professional cyclists and are commonly seen in competitive cycling races. They provide muscle compression, which helps reduce fatigue and improve performance. In addition, the fabric is designed to wick away sweat, helping cyclists stay cool and dry even on long rides.
According to a survey conducted by the National Sporting Goods Association, approximately 11.8 million Americans aged 6 and older rode a bicycle at least 6 times in 2019. Of those, about 8.5 million reported wearing bicycle shorts, and of those, almost half wore lycra-tights. This indicates that lycra-tights are a popular choice among recreational and competitive cyclists alike.
Lycra-tights are an essential piece of cycling apparel that provide comfort and support while riding. They are a popular choice among cyclists of all levels, from beginners to professionals, and can make for a more enjoyable cycling experience.
as this is the title for the whole blog.The Origin of the Term 'Lycra-Tights' in Cycling
The term 'lycra-tights' is a combination of two words: 'lycra' and 'tights'. Lycra is a synthetic fiber developed by DuPont in 1958. It is lightweight and has great elasticity, making it perfect for stretchy clothing. Tights are a type of clothing that covers the legs from the waist to the ankles.
In the context of cycling, lycra-tights were first used in the early 1970s. They were initially worn by professional cyclists in Europe, particularly in France, to protect their legs from the cold, wind, and rain. The material was also thought to help cyclists move faster by reducing air resistance.
By the 1980s, lycra-tights had become popular among amateur cyclists and were used as part of their cycling outfits. Today, lycra-tights are a common sight in cycling races and have become a staple of the sport.