There are many different reasons to ride a bicycle. You might throw on a pair of shorts and tennis shoes for a quick afternoon ride on the trail, or you may be a serious biker, which means spandex is a must. Being comfortable while riding a bike is important, but that’s a lot easier said than done for people who use a bike to commute to work.

Riding a bike is better for the environment, and it can save you money on the cost of owning and maintaining a vehicle. However, that doesn’t mean you want to show up at work in biking shorts and cycling shoes!

You don’t have to look like you just got done with a race when you get into the office. There are things you can do to ensure you look stylish and feel comfortable as you ride to and from work on your bike.

Choose the Right Helmet

Wearing a helmet isn’t necessarily stylish. Not to mention, it can really affect your hairdo! However, there are a lot of reasons to wear a helmet. Not only does it lower your risk of experiencing a fatal accident, but it can also shorten your hospital stay and reduce your risk of developing a long-term disability if you’re hit on your bike.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that all helmets are ugly! There are tons of stylish helmets for you to choose from. If you don’t like the look of your helmet, you can always use paint, gems, and other craft supplies to make your helmet all your own.

Wear Shorts Under Your Dress

You aren’t stuck wearing leggings to work every day if you’re riding a bike. You don’t necessarily have to roll up your pant leg either, which isn’t the most stylish thing to do. Instead, wear a dress or a skirt!

There’s no reason to worry about whether or not you’re showing a little too much skin when you wear a skirt or a dress while you ride a bike. There are a few hacks for riding in a skirt, which include wearing shorts underneath your dress. They can remain hidden under your skirt all day long, but they will ensure you remain modest while you ride on the road.

Wear a Long, Waterproof Jacket

Biking in the rain isn’t fun, especially if you don’t want to arrive at work sopping wet. There are a few tips for biking in the rain that will make it more comfortable for you, but if you don’t wear a long, waterproof jacket, it will all be for nothing.

Wet pavement causes water to trail up the back of your rear wheel, leaving you with a wet stripe down your back. Not only will the right jacket look stylish, but it will also keep your back and bottom dry during your commute.

Use a Backpack

You may carry a purse regularly, or maybe you prefer a small briefcase. Unfortunately, many of these bags are nearly impossible to wear while you ride a bike. Instead, use a commuter backpack when you’re heading to work.

There are many stylish designs to choose from, but even more important is the fact that you can place items in a backpack that you would struggle to carry otherwise including:

• A change of shoes
• A purse or wallet
• Groceries you picked up on the way home
• Personal care items, like lip balm and hair ties
• Workout clothing

You’ll be better prepared by using a bag that holds more items, many are waterproof, keeping your items safe, and you don’t have to worry about it sliding off your shoulder as you ride.

Wear Well-Fitting Shoes

The shoes you wear when you ride a bike are important, but you might be surprised to learn that nearly any type of shoes can work, even heels!

The trick is to wear well-fitting shoes, regardless of what kind of shoes they are. Tennis shoes are always an option, especially if you wear a backpack with a change of shoes inside, but flats, platform wedges, and boots can be worn safely while riding a bike, as long as they are secure on your foot. Avoid oversized shoes that cause your feet to slip inside them, and avoid wearing flip flops on your bike.

You don’t have to roll into work in the morning looking like you rode your bike! You can look stylish while ensuring your ride is comfortable when you follow the tips on this list.