Summer Guide
Winter and spring are over and now it's time for more rides outside again. Warm sunrise, day & sunset rides are everything we want after a dark and cold winter. But this brings some challenges also. In this summer guide we will give you tips and the best gear to ride in summer.
What are the key factors for riding in summer? First of all, wearing the right kit is important. Also, you want to make sure you wear the right sunglasses and that you stay hydrated during your ride. Follow our three guiding principles to stay cool and comfortable whatever the weather.
Lightweight & moisture-wicking
Lightweight, breathability and moisture-wicking jerseys are key in summer. They need to give you a cooling sensation when riding in high-summer temperatures. But also dry fast again when not riding.
Protect your eyes
Keep your eyes protected when out on your bike. You definitely don't want that harmful UV radiation on your eyes for hours during your ride. Our range of sunglasses make sure your eyes are safe.
Bottle up
Since your body is 50 to 80% made of water and you lose water during your ride in summer, it is important to stay hydrated. Dehydration can cause cramps for example. Don't wait until you are thirsty.
Short Sleeve Jerseys
Our collection of short sleeves range from jerseys for sunny rides to a bit cooler sunrise/sunset rides. During warm days it's best to wear our collection of lightweight jerseys. These jerseys are constructed to wick sweat away from the skin and promote airflow. This way you can stay cool and comfortable, even in the hottest conditions.
Baselayers
Baselayers may not be visible to others most of the time, but don't underestimate the best cycling baselayers. Go for the sleeveless baselayers in summer. The time for the long thermal baselayers is over. These humble undergarments should form the foundation of your cycling kit when you're choosing what to wear when you go on a ride. They are regulating your body temperature and managing moisture build-up to keep you feeling fresh throughout your ride.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are often overlooked when riding in summer. At Maats, we love our collection of sunglasses and wear them even off the bike. Browse our collection of Italian brand Alba Optics and Scandinavian brand Bliz.
Gilets
Mornings and afternoons can still be chilly in summer, especially in the Netherlands. Also, in summer the skies are clear and this also means that the temperature can drop a bit in the morning and night. Are you riding in the mountains? It's always a good idea to tuck a stow away gilet in your back pocket for descending down a mountain. So, keeping your core nice and warm by wearing a good gilet is paramount, not only for your riding enjoyment, but as the key controllers of your bike, in keeping you safe too.
Bib Shorts
When the colder months are behind us, bib shorts are finally a good option again. Pack your long winter tights away and get your bib shorts out! You want to keep you legs as cool as possible as they are doing all of the work. Furthermore, they come with integrated chamois to keep you comfortable on your bike.
Accessories
Accessories to beat the heat in mid summer. For example, cycling caps are a good way to keep the sun away from your eyes and face. A helmet is obviously important to wear, but white helmets might keep that sharp sun away instead of wearing a black helmet. Furthermore, staying hydrated is key. Dehydration is not something we riders enjoy, so make sure you keep drinking during that summer ride.
