What to Wear During Summer Rides

Planning to ride more this summer? Whether it’s a casual loop through the countryside or a long gravel or mountain bike ride, wearing the right cycling gear can make all the difference. Summer riding is about staying cool, comfortable, and protected. Read on to discover what to wear cycling and make the most of your warm-weather rides.

Lightweight and Breathable Jerseys

Start with a cycling-specific jersey made from lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric. These materials help pull sweat away from your skin and allow it to evaporate quickly. A full or half zip offers extra ventilation on hot days, while a dropped tail ensures coverage in riding position.

PEARL iZUMi's summer jerseys use Transfer technology technical fibers designed to move perspiration away from the body, speeding up evaporation and helping you stay cool and dry. Ideal for hot rides, and also as a base layer in cooler conditions.

For hot summer days, explore our sleeveless jerseys such as the men's Quest Sleeveless Jersey and the women’s Attack Shortsleeve Jersey.

If you prefer classic short sleeves, check out options like the men’s Attack Shortsleeve Jersey or Quest Shortsleeve Jersey. For women, the Womens Quest Shortsleeve Jersey and the Womens Attack Shortsleeve Jersey are perfect for warm-weather cycling.

Comfortable, Padded Shorts

Saddle time increases in summer, so comfort matters. The right shorts can vary based on your riding style.

For road cycling, padded shorts are a must. They offer the support and comfort needed for longer efforts. Browse our road shorts and bibs for women or men performance-focused options.

For gravel rides
, you can go with padded shorts or a more relaxed short paired with a liner. This gives flexibility and style without sacrificing comfort. Discover options in our gravel shorts and bibs collection for women and men.

For mountain biking, many riders choose relaxed-fit shorts, but padded shorts are still a great option for longer or more technical rides. Explore our MTB shorts range for women and men to find the right fit for your trail adventures.

Sun Protection and Accessories

Even on mild days, sun exposure can sneak up on you. A lightweight cycling cap, fingerless gloves, and UV-protective arm sleeves add comfort and protection. Don’t forget high-quality sunglasses to reduce glare and improve visibility.

Stay hydrated with a water bottle close by and consider light-colored gear to reflect heat.

Explore our all our accessories to complete your cycling kit.

Gear That Moves With You

When you’re figuring out what to wear cycling, the goal is simple: choose clothing that supports your ride, matches the weather, and helps you enjoy the experience from start to finish.

PEARL iZUMi’s summer gear is designed with real riders in mindfunctional, breathable, and built for road, gravel, and mountain bike adventures.