Not so long ago we wrote about some terrific new products for hot-weather riding. But there are a whole lot of old favorites that can also help keep you cool. In general, they work by using water to cool you by evaporation. Special polymer crystals in these products are the standout of this classic technology. They can retain a ton of water and slowly release it via evaporation to cool you.
The Cooldanna is a tie for your head and neck. It provides several hours of cooling and can be reused again and again. It contains polymer crystals that are non-toxic and hold a lot of water. Just soak the Cooldanna in cold water for ten minutes to activate the crystals. Then wear it either as a necktie or a headband. It’s hand washable. This is just one of the many styles of Coldanna bandannas available at Eagle Leather, and a lot of them are on sale right now. Look at them online or in the Eagle Leather store, you might find a design you like at a very reduced price.
Hyperkewl skull caps give you between five and ten hours of cooling per soaking. It’s lightweight and durable. It ties in the back, so it fits most people comfortably. This will cool more of your head than a bandanna can.
Evaporating cooling vests a super way to keep cool. Many have Polymer Embedded Fabric (PEF6519) sewn into the lining. These are a great buy and give you relatively long-time cooling. These vests are non-toxic, lightweight, and durable and can be used again and again. Just soak the vest for one to three minutes in cool water. Gently squeeze out the excess water and put it on. You can re-soak as needed. When you’re through for the day, hang it up to dry. You can wash it by hand in warm, soapy water.
Here’s a cooling vest from Hyperkewl™ made for women. It has a high mandarin collar for extra sun protection. It’s made with a quilted nylon outer layer, a HyperKewl™ fabric inner layer, water-repellent nylon liner, and black trim. It’s got front pockets and a zipper close. It gives five to ten hours of cooling per soak.
A cooling towel gives you a lot of flexibility for outside activities, including riding. This cooling towelis made from highly absorbent PVA material. It’s light and easy to activate. The towel stays hydrated for hours and is easy to re-activate. It measures 12 by 28 inches. Again, you can re-hydrate the towel as needed and wash it in warm, soapy water.
Yet, there’s no denying it: Unless you plan to ride exclusively around the Southern United States, you’ll face some chilly winters. And even before it...
