The Best Bike Commuting Gear of 2019

Published October 10, 2018 12:00AM

LifeProof Quito Pack ($99)

LifeProof is known for its bomber smartphone cases, and the Quito brings that same safety-first mindset to your commute. Made from a water-repellent Cordura fabric, with a cinch-top hood flap and water-resistant media pocket, this bag is a simple, sleek transport that’ll accommodate all your essentials, including a 15-inch laptop.

Coros Omni Helmet ($200)

Lights on the back automatically switch on or off depending on ambient levels. With Bluetooth connectivity and bone-conduction speakers (which transmit sound via cheekbone pads in the temple straps), this lid can also play audio and receive calls from your phone, controlled by a bar-mounted remote.

Kitsbow Trials Jacket ($395)

It’s hard to believe that the velvety Trials jacket from Kitsbow would withstand even a light sprinkle. Yet the Polartec NeoShell fabric kept us dry through some heavy Alaskan rainstorms.

Search and State Long Sleeve Merino Jersey ($180)

This is the antidote to gaudy, Saran-wrap-tight cycling kit. The heavyweight merino is tailored loosely enough to layer over a base, and a trio of back pockets hide your license and cash.

Hardvark Voyager Shirt ($175)

Think you know merino? The Voyager—a soft, wrinkle-free oxford that comes in gingham, twill, and tattersall—will make you think again. The crisp cut and pearled buttons are office appropriate.

Western Rise Evolution Pants ($149)

The Evolution’s air-spun nylon is as downy as aged denim but tough enough to cope with an unruly chainring. The patterning is trim and dressy, with square-cut pockets.

Lucnt SRL1 Light ($120)

The 59-lumen SRL1 is a magnet-mounted taillight for your bike. Housed in lightweight machined aluminum, it blinks at motorists approaching from behind, then switches to solid as you roll to a stop.

Moots Highline Bike ($6,299)

The Highline is the Mercedes-Maybach of city bikes, with a luxurious ride and a price tag to match. Seamless Reynolds titanium blunts chatter on dodgy city asphalt, while Shimano’s Metrea, the company’s urban group set, looks as sharp as it shifts.

Chrome Dima 2.0 Shoes ($75)

The slick Dimas pack commuting cred, with vulcanized rubber outsoles for grip, stiff nylon shanks, and reflective hits on the heels.