Team Kit 101

Below is just about everything you need to know about ordering “kit” (cycling uniforms) for student-athletes.

Q: OK, what the heck is a kit?!
A: A “kit” is the language used by cyclists to describe their team uniform, usually consisting of a jersey and a pair of shorts.

Q: What’s the difference between the two styles of kit?
A: Kits are available in two styles: a traditional, lycra “XC” or “Cross Country” style kit, or a baggy “trail” style kit. Either (or both!) works for racing, and the both work great for practices and adventure rides! It is totally up to each athlete to decide what is best for them. Lycra shorts/bibs have a padded “chamois” sewn in, baggy shorts do not. If you opt to order “baggies” (as they’re often called), know that you’ll want to get a pair of bib short liners to wear underneath. This year, we have two lycra styles: a race-cut, skintight fitting jersey (consider sizing up one size if you’re on the fence) and a slim-cut jersey as well, at a slightly lower pricepoint.

Q: Who makes the team kit?
A: We’re stoked to have Borah Teamwear, a Wisconsin-based company, producing our kits this year. Their size guarantee and easy-to-use team store are awesome!

Q: What items should I order?
A: We recommend one jersey (either lycra or baggie!), but you can decide what style, and how many you’d like to order. The shorts are high-quality, but any pair of plain black shorts (baggy or lycra) would also work. You can purchase shorts in the Borah team store under the “MORE” menu tab, or on your own at any retailer selling bike apparel.

Q: How many kits should I order?
A: As noted above, if your rider is planning to race, you’ll want at least one jersey that is specific to your school. You can order one kit, or multiple kits, based on their needs and how much they ride.

Q: How do I know what size to order?
A: Please take care to select the correct garment and size. These items are made to order. Borah provides a number of sizing tools, including a size chart. Please refer to these links, and measure to ensure you are choosing the correct size. PLEASE NOTE: If you are ordering a lycra (tight-fitting) OTW kit, please be aware that these are a performance cut kit. They are designed to fit TIGHTLY and you may want to consider sizing up if you are worried about the fit.

Q: What’s the difference between the kids options, and the adults?
A: Please see the Borah size chart to determine what type of jersey/shorts your rider needs. It is your responsibility to check the size chart and order the appropriate size for your riders to avoid receiving an ill-fitting garment!

Q: Bibs or shorts!?
A: Up to you. They might seem dorky, but trust us, bibs are more comfortable in the long run because they stay put as riders move, which means less messing with clothing, adjusting your waistband, and less potentially uncomfortable chafing (eew)… Some kids don’t love ‘em, though - so again - totally up to the rider’s preference. We highly recommend bibs.

Q: Long sleeve or short sleeve!?
A: Either. Remember that our races take place in Wisconsin in the fall…which essentially means your rider should be prepared to race in any weather. We’ve offered both options so you can choose.

Q: Is there a discount for NICA athletes and volunteers?
A: Yes! Our custom designed kit prices already reflect a 25% discounted cost! Cycling clothing can be expensive, and one of the perks of riding with NICA is the ability to get quality, custom cycling clothing (and other great gear) at a lesser cost than you would pay for the same garment otherwise.

Q: Can I wait until the last minute to order?
A: You can do whatever you need so long as it is before midnight on the date of our deadline - but please know that we have to meet minimum order requirements for styles. It will REALLY help us out if you place your order early so we can notify you if a certain style may not meet minimums, and suggest another style that would work for you.

Q: Uh oh…I missed the first round of ordering…
A: That’s OK - we’ll reopen the store one more time (likely in July) for another round of ordering. You’ll just receive your order a bit later as a result.

Q: My student athlete is on the fence about racing…should I order a kit?
A: You don’t have to race to order a kit! Kits are for everyone. That said, if you’re uncertain as to whether your rider wants to race, we suggest ordering one jersey (Lycra or baggie) so you can still have the option to race come fall. These jerseys can be used for riding/practicing, so even if a rider doesn’t end up racing, they’ve got a great piece of clothing to wear!

Q: Can I return or exchange items?
A: Please see Borah’s fit guarantee.

Q: Can I change my order?
A: Please contact Borah directly. 

Q: Are we only allowed to wear our kits during races?
A: No! We encourage our student athletes to wear their team kit proudly, whenever they want - they’re great quality and awesome for practices, fun events/races in the off-season, and casual rides, too. Many athletes will wear a baggy-style jersey to school before a race weekend.

Q: What about more casual clothing?
A: Remember that our NICA athletes and volunteers will receive a practice shirt at the beginning of the season. We will also have a ton of awesome casual clothes options (hoodies, tees, etc.) available for purchase, too - stay tuned!

Q: Why does it take so long to receive our kits?
A: Our kits will be here in time for racing season, but because it is a custom order (with three different team designs) production time is approximately 4-5 weeks, which is pretty standard for the cycling apparel industry at the moment. Kits are shipped in bulk to reduce costs, and we will distribute them during practice as soon as we receive them.

Still have questions? We encourage you to email Borah directly with questions about sizing/garment questions.

If you have team-specific questions, contact a team director or feel free to ask another parent - our seasoned NICA families are always happy to provide advice and knowledge!