From lightweight bib shorts to insulated water bottles, check out these 10 must-have items that are perfect for sunny skies and rising temps.
Pearl Izumi Elite Pursuit Summer Jersey
$110 1 of 11
The direct-vent mesh used throughout the new Elite Pursuit Summer Jersey from Pearl Izumi makes it one of the lightest, most breathable options you'll find. While it doesn't feel as restrictive as other race jerseys, it does have a second-skin fit. During climbs, the full-length zipper is a good way to get a little extra airflow, while the polyester and elastane blend on the shoulders helps to protect you from the sun.
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Your Next RaceRapha Flyweight Bib Shorts
$235 2 of 11
There's little doubt that the previous Rapha Lightweight bib shorts were among the most comfortable and well-made on the market. But if there was a complaint, it's that they didn't seem all that breathable. The new Flyweight seems to have fixed that issue and is one of the only true summer bib shorts we've tried.
The straps and upper fit on the shoulders and back incredibly well and feature an ultra-thin mesh that feels a lot like a really thin base layer. The bottom half is made with a four-way stretch fabric that's light and breathable and is treated with coldblack to reflect the sun and prevent the build-up of heat. A perforated chamois works well to keep you cool and reasonably dry.
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Your Next RaceAssos Summer Glove S7
$69 3 of 11
Going gloveless might be your first inclination when temperatures rise. If you happen to take a spill, your hands will regret that decision. This summer glove from Assos provides a lightweight barrier and includes a thin pad in the palm and along the base of the fingers to help ease road vibration and prevent fatigue on longer rides. The mesh on the back of the hand and in between the fingers breathes extremely well, and the terrycloth section on the thumb comes in handy when you start to sweat.
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Your Next RaceZefal Arctica 75
$12.99 4 of 11
The only thing wrong with the previous Zefal Arctica was the lack of a 750ml option. Suffice it to say, we are very pleased with the new Arctica 75. It's one of the cheapest multi-layered insulated bottles at about $13, and features an odorless polypropylene that won't let the flavor of your previous beverage linger during your next ride. It's also BPA-free, 100 percent recyclable and will keep your drink cold for about two and a half hours.
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Your Next RaceFizik Summer Cycling Socks
$16 5 of 11
Sweaty feet are not cool. These summer socks fit great, dry quickly and are plenty breathable thanks to Fizik's lycra and Q-Skin microfiber blend. They're also anti-bacterial and provide a compression band on the arch to keep your dogs from barking. Total weight for the mid-length pair is just 12.5 grams for those weight weenies among us.
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Your Next RaceBeyond Coastal Face Stick
$6.99 6 of 11
Applying sunscreen before a summer ride is a must. However, finding a sunscreen that doesn't make you feel oily and greasy when you start to sweat isn't so easy. The Beyond Coastal Face Stick is an SPF 30 sunscreen that blocks up to 97 percent of the sun's harmful UV rays. It's also waterproof, absorbs quickly and hydrates the skin by utilizing natural products such as coconut oil, shea butter and aloe vera. And since it's sold in stick form, you won't have to get any on your hands when you apply it.
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Your Next RaceTifosi Optics Podium XC
$79 7 of 11
With more and more cycling-specific sunglasses creeping above the $200 mark, the new Optics Podium XC from Tifosi is proof you don't have to break the bank for a solid pair of shades. The Clarion mirrored lens technology has a hydrophobic coating that makes any moisture buildup roll off the lens and helps to cut down on road glare. They're also light and tough and come with an assortment of lens options, so you'll always have the right tint no matter what time of day you ride.
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Your Next RaceBontrager Summer Cycling Cap
$24 8 of 11
Donning a cycling cap is a great way to spice up your on-the-bike style. It's also a good way to protect your head from harmful UV rays that can shine through your helmet's air vents—especially if you don't have as much hair as you used to. This cap from Bontrager is light and made with Profila Cool mesh fabric, which helps to promote airflow and wick-away moisture to keep sweat from your eyes.
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Your Next RaceSidi Wire Air Vent Carbon
$499 9 of 11
The Lorica Vernice microfiber upper for the Sidi Wire Carbon Air is one of the lightest and most breathable you'll find. But the real star of the shoe is the vented carbon sole, which can be opened during those hot and humid days in July or closed when temperatures start to cool. The three-push buckle system allows for incremental adjustments for a secure fit, and the heel is one of the most comfortable we've tried on any cycling shoe. While these are painfully expensive, all of the buckles, wires, outsole lugs and heel retention devices can be replaced—ensuring you won't have to purchase another shoe for at least a few years.
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Your Next RaceNUUN Energy Electrolyte Tablets
$7 10 of 11
Replacing electrolytes lost through sweat is essential when riding in the summer heat. While we're not big fans of sweet sports drinks, NUUN Energy tablets provide a good tasting hydration option that's low in calories and in sugar. The 10-tablet carrying container is easy to fit into a jersey pocket on long rides and is super convenient when your refill options are limited to park water fountains. The new cherry limeade and mango orange flavors are two of our current favorites.
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Your Next Race
About the Author
Marc Lindsay
Marc writes gear reviews, training, and injury prevention articles for Active.com. He is also a contributor to LAVA Magazine, Competitor Magazine, and Gear Patrol.com. He is a certified Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) and earned his M.A. in Writing from Portland State University. Marc resides in Scottsdale, Arizona.
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