Comments on: Open Forum : How Do You Deal with the Summer Heat?

By: patrick

patrick — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 19:18:25 +0000

I live in Austin. It has been 105 every day this month so far.

These things work for me:

1.) Cotton seersucker shirts are the best thing on god’s earth for hot weather anything. Wash them, then air dry. Get lightweight pants, dark colored. A few changes of these are a bit of money, but I think worth it.

2.) Pannier bags, not backpacks

3.) A towel to wipe off if needed

4.) Spray on “mineral salt” deodorant, used generously.

By: bryan

bryan — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 15:28:43 +0000

move to the UK you will never ever get to hot.

By: chunkymonkeybiker

chunkymonkeybiker — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 04:34:25 +0000

I used to commute in 100 degree weather in So Cal. I’d wear a long sleve workshirt and drench it with water. It was cold at the beginning of the ride but felt great and eventually dried with in 1 hour. I’d do it again if in the same situation.

By: Mark

Mark — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 23:00:59 +0000

I have a 10 mile commute into work here in Dallas. I beat the heat by freezing my 2 water bottles overnight. By the time I arrive into work, they have both melted to the point that I can drink them. They definitely help cool me down before entering the office. During the summer, i try to adjust my hours where I can leave about 6-7pm so I don’t have the sun glaring down on me as much.

By: Ray

Ray — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 06:41:20 +0000

Tokyo is pretty hot this time of year with very high humidity. Along with things already mentioned I also use a sweat gutr under my helmet. Works wonders.

By: Greg

Greg — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 01:05:15 +0000

I also live in Houston. I am a larger guy so and sadly I have no showers at my job. I bring a towel and dont change my shirt right away. I dont want to ruin two shirts. haha. Also for thoes of you that have short cut hair. I wear a bandana or cycling cap under my helmet it keeps the sweat out of my eyes wonderfully.

Greg.

By: JR

JR — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 21:48:22 +0000

Live in Vegas, and it is currently warm for 90/95 days each year… I leave about 5:30 AM during the warm months, with a light T-shirt and hiking shorts to make the ride possible.

In the afternoon, tis not the heat but the sun has a bite I do not remember as a yooth, or youth as we pronounce younger in this desert valley!!!

By: John

John — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 22:08:17 +0000

In Salt Lake City, we are over 100 for much of the summer. Fortunately, a little research has allowed me to find a route that is largely shaded (side streets, cut through a few parks) which takes the edge off the heat. I try to keep my load as light as possible, so my route passes by several public water fountains, rather than carrying a large supply of fluids. Works great, even in the heat.

By: OJB

OJB — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 20:07:50 +0000

I live in the Northern Central valley in Calif. 95-100 is normal summer temp. I wear moisture wicking shirts and normal sports shorts.
Don’t wear cotton, it holds the heat in. My feet get really hot so I wear mesh shoes or cycling sandals. Drink plenty of fluids. I use Accelerade, it’s great for hydration and recovery.
If you feel dehydrated or overheated stop and cool down.

By: David

David — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 20:09:59 +0000

I live just outside of Washington DC. I actually commute in a thin, fitted (not tight), long sleeve, wicking Heat Gear jersey made by Under Armor. It’s surprisingly comfortable – for me the closest thing next to biking without a shirt, which, until I lose 20 lbs, is something I would not do.