Chinese brands of cycling clothing: how to choose on AliExpress

What names to look for

The basis of the list was a selection of "The same gym teacher". The author lists Lameda, Santic, RockBros, GRC, Darevie, YKYWBIKE, Rion, Monton, Swiftofo, CHEJI, MCYCLE, SPEXCEL, PASMAAP, and AEC. This is a list to get acquainted with the assortment, not the results of a comparative test.

For the first pass, it is enough to look at several models of Lameda, Santic, GRC, YKYWBIKE, Darevie, and SPEXCEL in the desired category. Then compare them by the same parameters. If you are looking for unusual design, expand the list with the remaining names; the pattern on the fabric does not indicate the fit.

Monton products have their own website: do not consider any store with the brand name to be official. For other brands, also check the seller using links from the manufacturer's site, not just the words 'Official Store' in the shop name.

First, decide which trip the item is needed for

Short workouts and walks

Check the freedom of movement, access to pockets, and the convenience of the zipper. For casual riding, a racing cut may feel unusually tight.

The long ride

Special attention is given to cycling shorts: the shape and location of the insert, seams, straps, and pant retention. The declared number of hours in the card does not guarantee personal comfort.

Race

Try it on in your working position. It is important that the fabric does not gather in folds, sleeves do not constrict, and pockets remain accessible.

Autumn and winter

Separately consider insulation and wind protection. A long sleeve does not automatically make a jersey winter. The selection of the set is discussed in an article about cold weather.

How to choose the size when ordering online

1. Take measurements according to the seller's scheme: chest, waist, and hip circumferences, height; for long pants, leg length will also be useful.
2. Check what the numbers in the table mean: body measurements or the size of the product itself. These are different values.
3. Compare a specific line with a convenient item from your wardrobe. Size M from one brand does not have to match M from another.
4. At borderline values, send the seller your measurements and ask about the cut. For insulated items, indicate the base layer you will wear.

Buyer's photo is more useful when their measurements, chosen size, and model are indicated. Height and weight alone do not provide a complete picture: body proportions and desired fit density vary.

Diapers: check the package, not the logo

Diaper — insert in cycling shorts. Request its exact name and photo from the inside. Variants of the same card may differ in the insert, fabric, and season; reviews are general in this case.

Specify whether it is a men's or women's model, where the seams are and how the insert is located relative to the saddle. Thickness itself does not determine convenience. A well-known supplier name also does not replace a fitting: they may have different models, and the fit also depends on the shorts' cut.

Do not transfer someone else's review 'rode 150 kilometers' to yourself. It describes the experience of one person with his saddle, posture and intensity. New bibs should be tested on a short trip first, then increase the duration.

Five checks before payment

• The selected option. Check the article number, size, colour, season, and insert directly in the cart.
• Real photos. Look for the view from the inside, edge treatment, seams, zipper, and pockets.
• Reviews of the same model. Fresh reviews after several washes are more useful than general store ratings.
• The total cost. Compare the price with delivery and possible additional expenses, as well as the actual delivery time.
• Terms of return. Before buying, find out the procedure and cost of return shipping; keep the description of the selected configuration.

If you are updating your entire wardrobe, it's wise to start with one item. A successful first purchase will provide a reference for size and cut, not just based on other people's impressions.

Where does the list come from and what does it confirm

Source of the list of brands — the post of "The same gym teacher". The seasonal selection is complemented by the post of "MTBshnik Dini". Quality assessments in these publications belong to the authors; FATRACING has not conducted a comparative test of the listed clothing.

There is no rating from best to worst: the article's goal is to help compile a list and check a specific order. For custom designs with your own drawings and logos, see material about custom tailoring.