Read about our recent journey to create a suitable jersey for women, by women.
At Bicycle Network, one of the pillars of our organisation is “inclusive” – and getting more women on bikes has been a long-term key focus.
We know that one of the barriers for women is a lack of confidence, so when we received some feedback from female riders about our unisex event jerseys, we jumped at the opportunity to improve.
“Feedback from our members and event participants sent a clear message – the design and fit of our jerseys were not right for many women,” said Fi Neuwirth, Client and Program Manager at Bicycle Network.
“It was extremely important to us that women feel as comfortable as possible on the bike. But we didn’t want to make any assumptions about what a female jersey should look like… so we asked the ladies!”
Women’s jersey focus group
Back in January, Fi put the call out for female riders to join a focus group that would help us design a women’s jersey that fit.
From the many keen respondents, nine women were selected to help with the process – represented a range of different ages, sizes, riding styles and backgrounds.
The focus group got together in January to share insights on what they thought would make a great women’s jersey. Size, shape, material, zippers… everything was discussed, and Fi took notes to share with our manufacturing partner, Hub Cycling.
"It is exciting to be a part of this Bicycle network initiative. The focus group feedback was invaluable in helping design a jersey to cater specifically for women riders," said Liam Harris from Hub Cycling.
The trial phase
Over the next few months, the focus group trialed sample jerseys, shared feedback, and then trialed again – with Liam making tweaks and adjustments along the way.
In August this year we finalised our new women’s jersey design which we are excited to roll out at our upcoming events and activations in 2021.
“I’d like to send out a huge thank you to all the women involved, as well as Liam and the team at Hub cycling for helping bring our women's jersey together,” said Fi Neuwirth.
“We’re proud that in 2021, we can offer a jersey that we know our female participants will feel comfortable and confident in pulling on.”
I love being involved, and what you are doing. Clothing might not seem like a significant thing, but for people like me, it can be a barrier to participating, or a place to feel resentment (when i pay entry to something and receive clothing that fits really badly or not at all). So you are doing important work at making events and cycling more accessible.
Focus group feedback from Catherine Mok.
Women's Health Week, 7-11 September
Women’s Health Week is a national campaign, held every September, to raise awareness of the importance of good health and wellbeing for all women and girls in Australia.
This year, we'd love to see as many women and girls jumping on their bikes for Women’s Health Week, so we’re hosting a fun riding challenge.
Between 7-11 September, head out for at least 3 x 30 minute bike rides. It doesn’t matter how far or where you ride, outside or inside, as long as it’s for 30 minutes or more.
We want to you to know we’ve got your back, so we’re giving all women who sign up for the challenge a free three-month membership to support you on your bike riding journey.
There are also five double passes to United Energy Around the Bay 2021 and three bike essentials kits up for grabs!
Share your ride on social media with @bicycle_network and #womenshealthweek.
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