Riding in the heat on a budget
We came up with kit for two sets of budget, but we realise that even the lower one is the type of money a lot of riders – especially those starting out – may only have for the whole year. If you can’t afford specialist clothing, there are things you can do.
1. All year kit? Make sure that it can cope
Choose kit that has some form of venting that can be opened when it gets warmer. A lot of textile kit feature zippable vents on jacket and trousers.
2. Don’t ride in T-shirt, shorts and flip-flops
It is tempting to strip off the kit and ride in little clothing. But this isn’t a good idea. Ever seen gravel rash? It isn’t pretty, but it is permanent. And aside from the risk of malignant melanoma, riding like this gives a false impression of being cool but the sun is beating down on your skin, dehydrating you without you realising. It also leaves you at risk of sunstroke.
3. Create airflow
In unbearable desert heat, the Bedouin are covered from head to foot. This seems illogical, but they wear flowing robes that make the most of airflow.
Get the air flowing. If you have vents, get them open. Open your helmet vents, loosen wrist and ankle straps. Undo the storm flap, loosen the inner zip, but don’t undo all the way. Do that and you’ve lost your accident protection.
4. Keep hydrated
Always carry a bottle of water – still, not sparkling (still water is easier to absorb) – replacing with fresh, cold water before you set out if possible. If you feel hot, pull over and sip, not glug – don’t overload your system.
It isn’t a bad idea to pour water over your head before you go. As the heat builds, this will evaporate, keeping your head cool, at least to begin with.
5. If you feel the need to stop, stop!
If you think the heat is affecting you, pull over, get in the shade and get fluids inside you. Newsagents/off-licences have fridges – though don’t just march in and stick your head in! Explain what is happening (i.e. you are feeling unwell and need to cool down) and buy something to thank them for their kindness!