Commuting - It's Hot! What to wear?

Well, it finally got into the 90's in coastal Southern California, and I'm starting to think that wearing my work clothing may not work in this weather.

What do you wear when it's really hot? Do you still stick with wearing your work clothes, if that's what you do during better weather? Do you slow down a little, or keep up the same pace?

I've been arriving a few minutes early to change my shirt and socks. But I may need to start wearing shorts instead. Unfortunately, that means putting on sunscreen as well. Perhaps light-weight exercise pants would work. I also alternate between short and long sleeves; should I shield my arms, or slather on sunscreen?

I hope September brings cooler weather. Cold and clear is the best.

My commute is only 1/2 hour each way and it's early morning and late afternoon so I'm not overly concerned about sun exposure (from a UV perspective anyway) like I would be for a long ride in the middle of the day. From a staying cool standpoint keeping the sun off you helps though I don't know if sunscreen is really beneficial for that. A hat may be a good idea if you don't use a helmet.

I wear cycling shorts and a light colored shirt that wicks like the kind you can get at Target. I tend to like looser fitting shirts for better air flow when it's in the 90's. There's been several threads on bikeforums about keeping cool this summer given the record heat. Not having to wear your work clothes while riding helps. Do you have showers available at your job?

Otherwise, keep extra fluids handy and slow down if necessary. Other than that I don't really change anything.

I have to chuckle at your post because we have only had about four days of high heat this summer and most feel as though they are suffering. I too am waiting for those cooler days to return as I think we have had the best summer weather wise in many years. Last night I thought about your question as I am in the same boat. I will wear summertime clothing for the ride and cover up a block away before hitting the work place. Are you not able to leave clothing at work for a few days so that you can change into decent and wrinkle-free clothing?

I'm kinda like tjspiel, at least as far as trip distance and sun exposure are concerned. My commute takes about 30 minutes. I sweat like a pig even when it's cooler, so I never have gotten away with wearing work clothes on the commute except for a couple times when I first started last year and it was 40* in the AM (early April).

When it's hot, I tend to wear wicking shirts as well. I got some on sale from Lands End that are probably about the same as what Target sells. I often wear swim trunks for bottoms... they breathe well and help to keep everything ventilated and cost a lot less than cycling shorts. I can rinse them out in the shower at the end of the day, let dry and wear again the next day a few times before having to actually wash them with the laundry.

If your commute's short enough and you usually just wear work clothes, maybe you could just try to go at a more relaxed pace on the bike?

Otherwise, I see some wicking materials in your future. Do you have a shower you can use at work? Baby wipes or a wash cloth and the bathroom sink are also good for a quick clean up if needed.

On really hot days (and we don't have many hot *mornings*) I wear swim trunks, t-shirt and sandals. Works great. 35 mins commute with about half of it in the shade, I forgo sun lotion. Usually I wear regular shorts and jeans, I am lucky because we have a casual summer, so I just change my t-shirt once I get to work.

what are the girls wearing?