Rapha's Guide to Riding in Summer - Men's

Long days made for riding, racing, and exploring with friends await. Still, summer brings its own set of challenges to the committed cyclist. Follow our guide of tips and tricks to stay comfortable on the road as the heat rises.

16 November 2021

You can learn to love winter riding but in the summer months there’s no need. Riding your bike is a pure pleasure, so long as you don’t overheat. In particularly hot regions, it can be a good idea to avoid the heat of the day by riding earlier or later. Before you leave, always make sure that you’ve got enough water with you and consider applying sun cream to avoid getting burnt.

When it comes to clothing, lightweight and breathable fabrics are best. In all but the hottest conditions, we recommend wearing a base layer to wick moisture away from the skin. And given how much you might sweat, summer mitts help you keep a firm grip on the handlebars at all times. Last but not least, sunglasses with polarised lenses make it easier to see in bright light.

THE GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Make the most of the summer season with our three guiding principles to beating the heat and staying cool in the hottest conditions.

LIGHTEN UP

 

Superlight summer jerseys are constructed to wick sweat away from the skin and promote airflow so that your body can continue to cool itself in even the hottest conditions.

COVER UP

 

Summer cycling brings with it the joys of riding in just a jersey and shorts – but uncovered skin can be susceptible to damage from the sun’s rays. Consider carrying a pair of SPF-treated arm screens if you’re riding through the middle of the day, when the sun is at its strongest.

EYES UP

 

Bright sun casts deep shadows. Polarised lenses make it easier to see between areas of light and shade, and glasses protect your eyes at speed from dry, dusty roads.

Cycling Jerseys for Summer

BUILDING AN OUTFIT

Summer essentials are simple. Your outfit should centre around your favourite jersey and bibs, both of which should be lightweight and breathable to help you stay cool. Arm screens and mitts are useful for sun protection, but even in summer it sometimes pays to have a lightweight jacket or gilet packed into your pockets in case of rain.

OUR FULL SUMMER RANGE

From off-grid adventures to high-tempo training rides, our summer range includes summer jerseys and bib shorts for every kind of riding, all made with lightweight and breathable fabrics. Pair them together with sun-protective accessories like arm screens, mitts and sunglasses, and don’t forget to pack a lightweight jacket or gilet too.

Cycling Jerseys for Summer

SUMMER JERSEYS

Everything from lightweight jerseys for fast-paced racing, to UV resistant jerseys for adventuring in the sun.

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Cycling Jackets for Summer

PACKABLE LAYERS

Browse our range of lightweight, packable jackets and gilets.

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Cycling Shorts Cycling Bib Shorts for Summer

BEST OF BIBS

Browse our world-leading range, including race-ready bibs for your fastest rides.

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Cycling accessories for Summer arm warmers leg warmers

SUMMER ACCESSORIES

Keep cool in the heat with our sweat wicking caps, sun-blocking arm screens, and more.

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