Jerseys

[OakLeaf]

I'm not Sky King, but I have a few of these. I wear them all summer - riding, at the beach, walking around - they really do protect nicely from the sun.

I'm a big fan of the Zoot arm coolers. Right now they're on sale for $12! and I might just grab another pair in case the ones I have wear out. I've heard good things about Craft's cooling garments too, though I've never even seen them in person.

I haven't actually worn a Columbia shirt, but last year I was at an event where they were giving out half sleeve swatches made of their cooling fabric. I wore one on one arm and my Zoot sleeve on the other and I thought the Zoot sleeve was noticeably cooler and more comfortable.

Since I always wear short sleeved jerseys (or T-shirts when I'm just hanging out spectating), I don't need to cover my shoulders with anything extra, though some people here have said good things about the DeSoto Cool Wings bolero. I don't recommend the DeSoto standalone sleeves - they're just as effective as the Zoots against sunburn and heat, but the fit is weird, and since the fabric has very little stretch, if they don't fit exactly right they won't stay up.

Do be aware that any cooling garment has to fit like a second skin, like pantyhose, since they work by increasing evaporation, and if the fabric isn't in contact with the skin, they'll just trap a layer of air which will insulate and make you even hotter. That's one reason I prefer a short sleeved jersey plus sleeves rather than a full-on skin-tight cooling shirt.

[Sky King]

Yes, have arm sleeves as well but for some reason it is just easier for me to do the sun shirt. My photo on this response shows me in my all time favorite one It is from a company called Stillwater Supply. 100 % poly but it doesn't stink, has holes in the armpits for vent and a nice vent across the shoulders. I have a columbia that is heavier weight than the Stillwater. Then I scored an extremely awesome one at a 2nd hand outdoor store by a company called ExOfficio is 85%Nylon 15% poly. It has wonderful venting down the sides plus the venting across the shoulder plus it is a great bright salmon color

[salsabike]

Thanks, you all--much appreciated.