Choosing the right clothing while cycling in the summer and humidity of the UAE!
Choosing the right clothing while cycling in the summer and humidity of the UAE can make or break a ride. The right clothing will help keep you cool and enable you to complete longer rides more comfortably specially during summer.
Here is a guide on what to wear during summer in the UAE's hot and humid weather.
Helmet
Ventilation, ventilation, ventilation during summer! I cannot emphasize this enough. Choose a helmet with plenty of air vents. This will allow airflow through your helmet and keep your head cool during summer. It will immediately help the body's natural cooling system to work. Be sure to ask one of the sales assistants when purchasing a helmet because a bigger helmet does not mean more ventilation. Get the correct size helmet and protect your head (it is one of the most important body parts we own).
Sunglasses
Here in the UAE, we experience all types of weather changes, from blistering heat to the occasional shower, wind, and sandstorms. Wearing good quality sunglasses all year round is highly recommended. The glasses will not only help to block most UV rays but also protect your eyes from anything flying into them.
What is great about glasses today is that the lenses have a layer over them and ample ventilation to keep them from fogging up, leaving you visible even on hot and summer days. When purchasing your glasses, make sure they don't put too much pressure on your temples and that they cover the optimal area around your eye sockets.
Base Layer
Think of two very thin layers of fabric against your body while you work out. The layer closest to your skin will absorb the water, keeping it away from your skin, and the second layer will act as natural air ventilation to keep you cool. Base layers are a great value for your money as they can be worn throughout different seasons specially summer.
Summer Jersey
Cycling jerseys are typically made from moisture-wicking fabrics that help keep you dry and comfortable during sweaty summer rides. Summer jerseys are designed with breathable materials and strategic ventilation panels to promote airflow and enhance breathability. This helps regulate your body temperature by allowing heat to escape and cool air to reach your skin.
Many summer jerseys are designed with fabrics that provide UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. This protection helps reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term sun damage, especially during prolonged exposure to the sun while cycling. Cycling jerseys often feature multiple pockets at the back, providing convenient storage options for essentials such as energy gels, snacks, keys, and a phone.
When selecting a summer cycling jersey, consider factors such as fabric quality, fit, ventilation, and additional features that align with your specific needs and preferences. Trying on different brands and styles can help you find a jersey that provides the desired combination of comfort, performance, and style for your summer rides.
A cycling jersey specifically designed for high temperatures and humidity should consist of different panels providing extra protection or ventilation in particular areas.
Summer Arm/Leg Sleeves
Summer sleeves are great because they can easily be removed and rolled up, placed in your jersey, and do not take up much space. The sleeves provide an extra layer of coverage to shield your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. This helps reduce the risk of sunburn and skin damage. They also provide temperature regulation. Arm and leg sleeves can help regulate your body temperature during summer rides. While they provide coverage, they are typically made from lightweight and breathable materials that wick away.
Gloves
Gloves offer advantages throughout the year, even during hot and humid summer. In such conditions, gloves provide the following benefits: By wearing gloves, our hands stay dry and act as a form of protection if you were to ever come off your bike, enabling us to maintain a comfortable and secure grip on handlebars or other objects, preventing any potential slipping or accidents. Gloves serve as a practical tool to wipe away sweat from our face, ensuring clear vision and preventing your hands from slipping off the handle bars.
Bib Shorts
Bib shorts are one of, if not the most important piece of clothing you could invest in when it comes to cycling. Your bib shorts could make or break your ride or training sessions. Personally, I have ridden in both bad and good cycling shorts, and once you purchase a good set of bicycle shorts, you can't really look back.
What you would like to look for when purchasing shorts is lightweight, breathable, compression, and moisture-wicking fabrics. These materials will keep you cool and dry during hot summer rides.
If possible, try on different brands and styles of bib shorts to find the best fit for your body type. Pay attention to how they feel when you're in a cycling position and move around to ensure they don't cause any discomfort or restriction.
Socks & Shoes
Socks will follow the same concept as your summer cycling jersey. Look for fabrics that are lightweight, with thinner mesh-like fabric on the top of your foot for ventilation and good compression. This will help the blood and oxygen flow to the feet, helping to relieve any foot numbness and swelling.
Ideally, we would all love to own two pairs of cycling shoes. If you only have the option of having one pair, consider the following. Look for a cycling shoe designed with breathable materials and mesh panels. These materials allow air to flow through the shoe, keeping your feet cool and preventing excessive sweating specially during summer. Secondly, check for shoes with ventilations placed on the upper or the sole. These openings promote airflow and help dissipate heat, improving ventilation inside the shoe.
It's crucial to choose a cycling shoe that fits well. A shoe that is too tight or too loose can hinder ventilation and cause discomfort. Ensure that the shoe provides a snug fit without being overly restrictive, allowing for proper airflow around your feet.
Sunscreen
Pelotan is a high-performance sunscreen specially designed for athletes. This is perfect for summer, during hot, sweaty, and humid weather. The sunscreen not only smells good enough to eat but also soothes the skin while being non-greasy Bonus! Pelotan comes in a spray (pre-session) and a unique roll-on (mid-session), giving you the freedom to ride, swim, and run from sunrise to sunset while lasting a whopping 8 hours before you need to reapply. The lightweight, non-greasy, and fast-absorbing sun protection for the face and body has many benefits.