Originally Posted by
PacificSpray
If the headwind was the prevailing wind then I don’t know. But if it was katabatic (descendant air from higher ground) the air would be locally colder. More comfortable?
It was definitely a matter of comfort. For me it was a sweet spot where the breeze was just strong enough to help evaporate sweat but not strong enough to make the climb seem harder. The thing I find worst about long hills on a hot day is the unevaporated sweat rolling down my face.