This lightweight cycling apparel is the next best thing to riding naked – Bike Magazine Australia

Photograph courtesy of Assos

Ever feel like you’re suffocating in your kit on a hot day? That’s a function of a fabric’s level of permeability. The higher it is, the better the air movement and the cooler your skin feels. The open knit of the Assos jersey allows for greater airflow over the body while letting heat and perspiration escape.

Eliel Zuma Base Layer

Photograph courtesy of Eliel

A base layer is magical. In shaded, cool valleys and on brisk descents, it keeps sweat off your skin and prevents you from getting a chill. But on climbs, those same moisture-wicking properties keep you drier and more comfortable. The Zuma’s flat-seam construction and mesh fabric feel imperceptible under your jersey.

Pearl Izumi Sun Sleeves

Photograph courtesy of Pearl Izumi

Arm sleeves in summer? Hear us out: The sheer, lightweight fabric is made with the same Ice Fil fabric as the Stella top. What’s more impressive is the material’s 50+ UPF rating that keeps the sun from heating your skin in the first place. The Sun Sleeves fit snug, but not tight, and feel almost breezy.

Rapha Souplesse Jersey II

Photograph courtesy of Rapha

Ultralight fabrics, like the one found on the women’s Souplesse jersey, are less resistant to water vapour. Sweat passes through them more efficiently, and then wicks and dissipates quickly. Wear the jersey over fast-drying mesh straps, such as the ones on these matching bib shorts, and you’ll stay even drier.

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