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August 21, 2026

What are those strips on cyclists’ noses?

Cycliste casqué en tenue bleu marine sur une route de montagne.

Quick answer

That patch across a rider’s nose is often an external nasal strip. It gently supports the nasal entrance and may make nasal airflow feel more comfortable on the bike.

What the close-up can’t tell you

A close-up shows the accessory, but it cannot tell you how it affected the result. On an endurance ride, try it on your usual loop with the same glasses. For a time trial, repeat the same position and see whether it stays comfortable when you also need to breathe through your mouth. The evidence on external dilators doesn’t turn a sensation into a gain in watts or VO₂ max.

Keep reading

Sources

Helmeted cyclist in navy kit on a mountain road

BreathersBliss Lab · Practical guide

Race-day preparation works best when the small steps feel familiar. Apply your nasal strip before the start takes over your attention, alongside checking glasses and clothing. For road racing or a time trial, BreathersBliss offers external nasal support to include after testing it with your actual equipment.

At a glance

Apply before warming up to healthy, clean, dry skin. Check glasses in your racing posture. Nasal comfort and aerodynamics are separate matters: a strip does not correct bike fit.

01

Why wear nasal strips while cycling?

An external strip gently supports the sides of the nose while worn. BreathersBliss Intense strips combine that drug-free action with reinforced adhesion for sport. Nothing is inserted into the nostrils, and the mouth stays free for breathing, drinking and eating.

The aim is a more comfortable nasal passage and an application that does not distract you. That feeling is not evidence of increased power, VO2max or a faster course time. As intensity rises, let nose and mouth contribute. The strip can be part of your routine without imposing a breathing technique.

02

When to apply before a race

Prepare skin before getting on the rollers or beginning your warm-up. Clean gently, dry thoroughly, then centre a new strip according to the instructions and press its ends. Starting with dry skin free of oily residue matters more than trying to apply it while already sweating near the start.

Check helmet, glasses and comfortable facial movement next. Do not introduce an unfamiliar model at the last moment. The pre-exercise application guide helps establish a routine on preparation rides. Follow your model’s instructions and prepare before sweating rather than relying on one waiting period for every product.

03

Time trials: check your actual position

While stationary on a safely stabilised bike, take your usual posture and lift your head as you would to see the road. Check the glasses bridge, any visor contact and discomfort around the nose. A frame that feels comfortable sitting upright may meet your face differently when you use aero extensions.

A strip should not be used to tolerate a position that causes pressure, pain or poor visibility. If your setup limits comfort, have the position assessed rather than lowering the front end further. Do not attribute an aerodynamic advantage to the strip without relevant measurements either. Test wearing it in a controlled session before using it in race-specific preparation.

04

Keep adjustments simple during the race

Avoid rubbing the edges when wiping sweat. If the strip troubles you or starts lifting, attend to it only at a safe stop, never by taking your hands off the bars in a bunch or on a descent. A replacement needs a fresh strip and clean, dry skin. Removed strips are not reapplied.

After riding, remove gently and check skin. Stop wearing the strip if irritation occurs. Chest pain, faintness or unusual breathlessness require stopping exercise and seeking help. Intense contains 30 single-use strips for training and race preparation. Once you have tested the model, compare the packs below for your frequency of use and keep your race-day routine familiar.

Frequently asked questions

When should I apply a strip before a cycling race?

Before warming up and sweating, on healthy, clean, dry skin. Follow the instructions, press the ends and check your glasses.

Can I wear it in a time-trial position?

Check it in your actual posture during training. The glasses bridge or visor should not rub the strip or cause discomfort.

Will BreathersBliss add extra watts?

That is not a guaranteed gain. The aim is nasal comfort; power and finishing time depend on many other factors.

Can I breathe through my mouth with a strip?

Yes. It stays outside the nose and leaves the mouth free. Do not force nose-only breathing during racing.

What if it comes loose during the event?

Keep control of the bike and wait for a safe stop. Remove it if troublesome; do not try to reattach it while riding.

Which format should I choose for the season?

Intense contains 30 single-use strips. After testing fit and comfort, choose a pack based on your planned sessions and events.

From reading to trying.

To compare how a strip stays in place, prepare your skin before you sweat and keep your training conditions similar. The discovery pack contains six individual strips, two of each colour, for €0.50 plus shipping.

30-day satisfaction guarantee

Compare the available models in our nasal strips for sport collection.

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Your BreathersBliss routine

Find the format that fits you.

One pouch to discover, a trio to mix it up, a pack for your routine: choose your nasal strips and add them straight to your cart.

See the product page for application instructions and precautions.