Commuter tip: Sunscreen your head to avoid helmet vent burn. 

The Dog Days of summer, with their high heat and humidity, bring some additional challenges to the daily bicycle commute. Yet with a little thought and planning, any commute can be comfortable and enjoyable -- even during the hottest days of the year. 

Click here to view slideshow of hot weather cycling gear

• SPF Yourself. Don’t think you can get a sunburn at 9:30 in the morning? Think again. The summer sun can be surprisingly strong. Plus, the latest recommendation is everyone should use sunscreen -- even if you don't burn. Read the CDC's sun safety guidelines.

• Drink.  If you sweat heavily, you need to replace the fluids you’ve lost. And even if you don’t, it’s important to stay hydrated in the heat. Carry at least one liter of water or other liquid.

• Re-think your wardrobe. Even if you usually ride in work clothes, on the hottest days you may want to consider cycling clothes. Cycling clothes don't need to be spandex, but they should be cool and light.

• Strategize your clean up. In cool weather, you may be perfectly presentable when you arrive at the office. But when temperatures soar, most bicycle commuters can use at least a touch up. If don't have a shower at work, body wipes are fast and easy way to tidy up. 

• Prepare for glare. Light reflecting off bulidings, cars and even the pavement can make it hard to see. A good pair of sunglasses can make all the difference. Wraparound styles offer the added benefit of keeping road dust and grit out of your eyes.

• Go strapless. On a sweltering day, any strap you sling across your body (e.g., messenger, backpack etc) can mark you with “sweat stripes”. To avoid them, get a pannier, basket or bungee cords and let your bike carry the load. 

• Slow down. Leave a little earlier and pedal a little slower.  But you’ll arrive at work looking a lot fresher if you don’t try for the land speed record in the heat.

 More info: Bike storage | Heat index | Bicycle commuting

 Learn how: Do-it-yourself pannier project

Product list: Blue Lizard sunscreen, Pura water bottles, Axiom floral panniers, Click sunglasses ,  Nathan Shower Wipes , Pearl Izumi Gloves

 Email me at onyourbike@gmx.com