For sweltering days, go for a ride with a splash!
On Thursday, with a forecast high of 36 degrees Celsius, I headed out for my usual gravel ride in search of dappled sunlight through the trees.
That was the plan, but it was just too hot, so I changed tactics. I cut the ride short, stashed the bikes, switched into my Bedrocks, and hiked the trail.
After about an hour of hiking, I headed to a mountain stream to cool off. The icy-cold water was the perfect way to cool down. In the end, my holiday ride turned into a ride-to-hike-to-dip session, slowing down more and more as the day went on.
This weekend, over 200 observation points across the country recorded "extremely hot days" with temperatures over 35 degrees. Riding on asphalt makes you feel like you might just melt away, so you really have to be careful when riding during the day. Make sure you stay hydrated, and honestly, slowing down for a dip in the water every now and then isn't such a bad idea!
The Importance of Base Layers
Changing the subject, do you wear a base layer?
I'm often surprised when talking to people at the shop to find that many people don't wear a base layer in the summer, choosing instead to wear their jerseys directly against their skin.
Admittedly, it sounds counterintuitive to add an extra layer when it's already hot, thinking it might just make things worse, but that's not actually the case. No matter how quick-drying your jersey is, there's a limit to how much sweat it can absorb. By adding a base layer, the base layer absorbs the sweat first, then efficiently transfers it to the jersey and into the air.
I personally think of ASSOS as a brand that makes equipment rather than just clothing. Their base layers are meticulously designed for peak performance, using synthetic fibers that excel at moving heat away from the body. Because they quickly pull sweat away from the skin and transfer it to the outer jersey, they keep your skin feeling dry at all times.
Instead of a paneled design, they use a seamless tubular construction that hugs your body while stretching freely, never restricting your movement.
Honestly, even if you can't afford an ASSOS jersey, I'd at least want you to try one of these. That’s the kind of unsung hero they are.
Next up, SEARCH AND STATE offers a base layer made from a blend of merino wool and polyester, finished thinly for summer use. It leverages the moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties of wool while effectively blending in synthetics to make it durable and capable of handling midsummer weather. Plus, as a unique benefit of merino wool, you don't have to worry about odors after your sweat dries.
It has a slightly more understated look compared to the ASSOS version, so it's a very versatile item that you'll reach for often—you can wear it under a shirt or as a base for casual outfits. On this day, I was wearing it under the RAL / Fast Pass Active Shirt.
Of course, your jersey is important for staying comfortable in the summer, but because the spirit of these quality makers is in the details, I urge you not to skimp—use a good base layer.
Appearance matters, but in the heat of summer, what's underneath is what really counts.
Special Thanks : Photo By @gokawai