Mountain Biking - Cycling attires for a tropical region expedition

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Frazer Huang
10-02-02, 06:53 AM
I am planning for a Mountain bike expedition along the coastline area of Thailand and Vietnam after the monsoon season. The climate in this tropical region is extremely hot (33-35 degree celsius). Thus, I will be exposed to direct hot sun for the whole day in those hilly areas

I need an attires that can cover my body completely from the deadly ultraviolet while still feeling cool and comfortable. (Any outdoor performance garment with long sleeve will be all right to me, not neccessary must be a cycling attires.)

What are the brands available now that can compromise the following criteria?

UV block,
quick dry
Polyester mesh or other good ventalisation
thermal conductivity
Light weight etc

As for my leg, I would prefer a long trousers or tights that have similar feature. The reason why I don't prefer a conventional cycling short is because it will left the uncovered lower thigh and feet exposed to tan.(A half portion tanned leg look very ugly)

So can anyone who survived in a roasting climate expedition and thereafter appreciate their attires very much, Kindly provide your recommendation and the place that I can buy them. Thank you

Bokkie
10-02-02, 07:26 AM
In those conditions, humidity is likely to be a serious problem. Riding or any exercise in 35C temperatures is very arduous if the relative humidity is high. To prevent overheating, you need to dress loose/short. Waterproofs will be an enemy in those conditions, but the greater problem will be dehydration. You will need to drink an awful lot of fluid and consider electrolytes as you'll lose those quite quickly. Most other conditions you'll encounter will be easy to adjust to. Trust your own 'thermostat'.
foxguy
10-02-02, 02:25 PM
in those conditions i'll say go for the short sleves and also biking shorts, better be confortable and forget how ugly your tan line is gona look like, sounds like a lot of fun good luck

helonwhls
10-07-02, 07:02 PM
Try solumbra.com for UV protective clothing. I wear their long sleeved cycling jersey and seldom feel too hot with it. I have fair skin and need the sun protection.
Hel