You know what? We’re actually going to say it. Summer is here guys! And with that awesome announcement comes our handy guide for what to look for in your summer cycling kit – as well as a bunch of great suggestions.
The jersey
It goes without saying that during the summer you’re going to want a short-sleeved jersey, but what other features should a good summer jersey have?
Well, moisture wicking is a good start. Wicking is when the fabric your kit is made from is engineered to actively move moisture away from your body using a bunch of clever membranes. This means that while you’re obviously going to sweat a lot, you won’t get absolutely drenched, because the moisture makes it’s way to the outside of your jersey where it can quickly evaporate away.
A full-length zipper is obviously also a major boon when it comes to summer riding, allowing you to unzip when things get really hot. Just be wary that not everyone wants to see a flash of your exposed sweaty skin – especially not at the cafe stop! If the fabric also offers UPF sun protection then that’s an even bigger bonus.
These three men’s jerseys all fit the bill.
While these ones are great women’s options – although, a full front zip is less important on these, for obvious reasons.
The bibs
As always with bibs, the most important factor is comfort. Your bum is the number one contact point between you and your bike, so it needs a lot of looking after. A great chamois will go some of the way to achieving this. If you’re looking for features that are specific to summer, coldblack® treatment is a good place to start – it’s a technology that limits the build-up of heat caused by sunlight, so you feel cooler while riding – even if you’re wearing dark-coloured gear.
These Endura FS260 Pro shorts are a very capable option for women and are treated with coldblack®.
While for men, we stock the Giant Race Day bib in two different styles, both of which offer good UPF sun protection and a mesh back for increased airflow to the skin.
The shoes
Good ventilation is once again at the top of the priority list when it comes to summer road cycling shoes. We all know that feeling of taking off a pair of cycling shoes after a long hot day in the saddle to discover what feels like a swamp has gathered in the bottom. Not nice!
Choosing a white pair of kicks over a black pair will also do a little bit to reflect some of the sun’s rays and a pair of Specialized road shoes never fail to impress. These could be a great summer bet.
While, if you want to go really pro, there’s always the Giant Phase Carbon road shoe, with it’s Airstream® 5-vent ventilation system.
For the ladies, we stock the S-Works 6, a truly next-level performance oriented road cycling shoe. Its carbon sole and BOA dial closure system make it more than a match for any other elite cycling shoe on the market.
Or, at a more accessible price, the Liv Regalo features four cooling vents and a specially designed insole, which also serves to cool down the foot. It’s available in white and black.
