Cycling jackets with thumb loops almost caused a near-canal accident - Thankfully, these features are no longer common in cycling brand designs today
In the world of cycling, the journey is often as much about the gear as it is about the destination. However, one piece of equipment has long been a source of frustration and near-calamities for one seasoned cyclist: thumb loops.
For nearly three decades, the writer has been a cyclist and, for half of that time, a part of the cycling industry. Yet, it wasn't until recently that they found themselves in a precarious situation, tangled in the very loops they had long advocated against.
The incident occurred five miles into a ride, when the writer, wearing a just-in-case rain jacket with thumb loops, found themselves effectively tied behind their back. The thumb loops, caught underneath gloves secured with Velcro, had them contorting to grab their back brake, a manoeuvre that, under normal circumstances, would be straightforward.
This near-crash incident reinforced the writer's dislike for thumb loops on cycling jerseys and jackets. They now hate them, a sentiment that echoes Muhammad Ali's quote, "It isn't the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it's the little pebble in your shoe."
Thumb loops in long-sleeved tops have fallen out of favour in recent years due to better fabric technology and superior construction methods. Brands like Nike and Poivre Blanc, known for their innovations in sportswear, continue to offer cycling wear with thumb holes. However, the writer criticises this design choice, stating that it is uncomfortable and can cause fabric friction blisters.
The writer warns against using old cycling kit with thumb loops, and they advocate against their inclusion in cycling kit. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential danger and inconvenience posed by thumb loops in cycling attire.
Despite still owning a lot of cycling kit from the thumb-loop era, the writer has ignored the invitation to insert their digit in these items, until one incident changed their perspective. Now, the writer hopes that thumb loops will never cross their cycling path again.
This article is part of a series called 'A Love Letter to...', where the writer expresses their feelings towards various aspects of cycling. The series aims to highlight the joys and challenges of this sport, with the hope of inspiring others to embrace the cycling lifestyle.
