helmet with better ventilation for hot weather

[Miranda]

Oakleaf,

Thanks for your suggestion- I'm willing to try anything that will help. I did try wetting my hair down last summer and it helps some, although it evaporates in about 5 minutes during summer because the relative humidity here can be as low as 5%. Carrying extra water is already a problem because only a tiny bottle will fit in the 2nd bottle cage.
I really think that if there is better air flow, there will have to be some improvement - but I don't know how much. I had some pretty miserable experiences last summer, and I was only riding about 10-20 miles at that point.

I used to have that problem as well, then I got side loader cages. Two big bottles, no problems. Smaller frame size 49cm. My are Arundels: 1 cage sideloader, and 1 cage other-sideloader. http://www.arundelbike.com/sideloader.html?p=1.1.1.4
Shown here on my bike: http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showt...ht=candy+sweet

Btw, there are other lesser cost side-loading cages out there. Mine are carbon, and the cost to go with it. Getting used to pulling the bottle out the side was an adjustment for me. But, once past the learning curve, so worth it for extra water. I love them!

I also own a two bottle holder that clamps the saddle rails. I've just never ridden with it. The weight of the water in the back does affect bike handeling slightly when I did a short gear test ride. http://www.rei.com/product/768770

Last idea for water, had this ordered, and changed mind that my bad back disk would not like the weight. Road style Camel-Bak. http://www.rei.com/product/795871

I know the point of this thread-post is helmets... which to ME, biggest vents you can afford = cooler head. However...

Couple thoughts on clothes, which overall cooler body, helps some heat to escape...

90s and Midwest humidity... this is my coolest little jersey I presently own (mostly mesh--natural redhead, so a lot of sport block for me, still ok though). http://www.terrybicycles.com/product...ngletrack-tank
I've also considered doing an all mesh top, and just sports bra. but, the pockets are pretty whimpy. Depends how big a saddle bag you want to deal with. If the jersey pocket doesn't cut it for you. http://www.teamestrogen.com/prodTY_1977.html http://www.teamestrogen.com/prodCW_165002_2.html

On the helmets... you can basically stand in the store and hold the helmets side by side and compare the light coming through the vents for size. Unfortunately, more $, does equal more vent size = cooler, imo.