Beating the Men in Lycra Epidemic: Luca Kuhn on Cycling Fashion for Women

Why should women settle for cycling gear designed with men in mind?In this episode of Empower Sounds, I sit down with Luca Kuhn, founder of LUCA, the women’s cycling apparel brand redefining what it means to ride in style, comfort, and confidence.What started as an ick with the “men in Lycra epidemic” became the spark for Luca to create something new a fashion-forward cycling brand built for women, by women. Today, LUCA is more than apparel: it’s a community, a movement, and part of the women’s cycling revolution. What You’ll Learn in This Episode1. The “ick” that inspired LUCA and how frustration can fuel innovation2. Why women need cycling apparel that goes beyond men’s designs in smaller sizes3. The rise of CycleClubs and why they’re the new RunClubs4. How LUCA blends performance, fashion, and confidence in every piece5. Luca’s journey from cyclist to founder and lessons from building a purpose driven brand6. The importance of representation, community, and safe spaces in cycling Why This Matters1. The cycling apparel market was valued at $2.19B in 2024 and is forecasted to hit $3.36B by 2032.2. Women’s cycling clothing alone was valued at $1.23B in 2024 and expected to double by 2033.3. Yet, only 9% of UK women cycle weekly compared to 21% of men showing the need for better products, infrastructure, and representation.LUCA is stepping into that gap with stylish, functional gear and building a movement in the process.🔗 Connect with LUCAWebsite: https://www.rideluca.comInstagram: Ride_lucaInstagram (personal): lucakuhnTiktok: Ride_Luca🎧 Connect with Empower Sounds/MePodcast instagram : @empowersoundsMy Instagram: @maahika.sPodcast TikTok: @empowersoundspodcast My tiktok: @maahika.sLinkedIn: Maahika SinghFor collaborations and inquiries:[email protected]#WomensCycling #CyclingApparel #FemaleFounders #CycleClubs #CyclingFashion #Empowerment #StartupStories