{"id":40250,"date":"2022-08-03T18:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-08-03T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/?p=630406"},"modified":"2022-08-03T18:20:23","modified_gmt":"2022-08-03T16:20:23","slug":"how-to-dress-for-cycling-in-the-summer-a-buyers-guide-to-staying-cool-on-the-bike","status":"publish","type":"rss_feed","link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/rss_feed\/how-to-dress-for-cycling-in-the-summer-a-buyers-guide-to-staying-cool-on-the-bike\/","title":{"rendered":"How to dress for cycling in the summer: a buyer\u2019s guide to staying cool on the bike"},"content":{"rendered":"

<\/p>

By Alice Thomson\n \t\t<\/p>

Published: Wednesday, 03 August 2022 at 12:00 am<\/p>

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Cycling is different in the summer. The days are longer, mudguards<\/a> have long been removed and, for the most part, it\u2019s warmer. On occasion, it\u2019s too warm and, equally, sometimes it\u2019s downright changeable, too.<\/p>\n

In this guide to summer cycling kit, we\u2019ll run through what you need to stay cool and comfortable when the heat hits, and what you need if the weather\u2019s not playing ball.<\/p>\n

Layers are still your friend<\/h2>\n
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A gilet is easy to stash in your jersey pocket, just in case.<\/span><\/figcaption> Steve Sayers \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

Summer cycling clothing should be adaptable, using thin layers that can be added or removed throughout the day as conditions dictate.<\/p>\n

Even in summer, mornings can be cool, especially if you\u2019re at altitude. Equally, conditions can change quickly and it pays to be prepared for summer storms or chilly descents.<\/p>\n

The focus should be on lightweight materials to help wick sweat away from the body and prevent that sticky, clammy feeling. Technical materials used for summer clothing also encourage ventilation to keep you cool<\/p>\n

Layers are key in winter, of course, but in cold weather it\u2019s all about retaining warmth, often with an element of wind or water protection.<\/p>\n

As with most things in cycling, there\u2019s lots of choice when it comes to summer cycling kit. What\u2019s right for you will likely be determined by factors including the weather you typically encounter, how far you\u2019re planning to ride, how hard you\u2019ll be pushing yourself (and how much you\u2019re sweating, as a result) and, as ever, budget.<\/p>\n

Let\u2019s get on to the kit. We\u2019ll run through each item, highlighting what to look out for and how to choose the right piece for you.<\/p>\n

Summer cycling jersey<\/h3>\n
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A short-sleeve jersey is a mainstay of a summer cycling wardrobe.<\/span><\/figcaption> Steve Sayers \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

Lightweight, short-sleeve jerseys are the best option for summer cycling. Look out for jerseys with mesh panels for ventilation, which make use of the airflow generated by the rider, and can help keep you cool on the move \u2013 even on a still day.<\/p>\n

While a standard summer jersey will work well for most conditions, some brands offer featherweight jerseys designed specifically for the hottest, most humid conditions, made from super-light fabrics that up ventilation once again.<\/p>\n

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Lightweight materials are breathable and wick sweat. <\/span> <\/figcaption> Steve Sayers \/ Our Media<\/i> <\/span>\n<\/div> <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>
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A full-length zip is a handy feature for climbs. <\/span> <\/figcaption> Steve Sayers \/ Our Media<\/i> <\/span>\n<\/div> <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>

In some climates, temperatures can fluctuate significantly within a day. Opting for a thin summer jersey and adding and removing layers as necessary will help you cope with any temperature changes.<\/p>\n

Instead of sticking to one jersey for the whole day, using layers can minimise sweating when it\u2019s too hot and the chilling that may follow when you cool down again.<\/p>\n

You can layer up with a gilet, arm warmers or a lightweight jacket, as we\u2019ll come on to, and all can be stashed in a jersey pocket.<\/p>\n

Almost all cycling jerseys will have three rear pockets, and you should look for a zipped pocket to stash small valuables.<\/p>\n

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Elastic in the sleeves stops them flapping. <\/span> <\/figcaption> Steve Sayers \/ Our Media<\/i> <\/span>\n<\/div> <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>
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Stretchy fabric increases the security of rear jersey pockets. <\/span> <\/figcaption> Steve Sayers \/ Our Media<\/i> <\/span>\n<\/div> <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>

While many riders take pride in cycling tan lines, sunburn is an uncomfortable addition to a summer ride<\/a> \u2013 and not recommended.<\/p>\n

If your jersey is particularly lightweight, you may still be able to burn through the fabric. Some brands offer cycling-specific sun creams, which are designed to last longer without wearing off when sweating.<\/p>\n

So, apply a high SPF suncream and don\u2019t forget to do the same if you\u2019ll be starting the day fully covered and removing layers as it heats up.<\/p>\n

We\u2019ve got a separate buyer\u2019s guide to the best cycling jerseys<\/a> for more advice.<\/p>\n