🌞 Shade Strategies For Touring Under The Summer Sun 🌞
Touring under the blazing summer sun can be both exhilarating and challenging. The open road, the hum of your wheels, and the endless horizon ahead create a sense of freedom that’s hard to beat. Yet, when the sun beats down relentlessly, it’s essential to find ways to stay cool and protected. In this article, we’ll explore practical shade strategies to keep you comfortable on long tours—even during heat waves.
✅ Finding Shade on the Go
Natural shade can be scarce, especially on flat, open landscapes. Trees, tunnels, or even the shadow of a passing building can offer brief but welcome relief. Timing your rides to include shaded stretches and taking breaks under trees helps prevent overheating. Still, relying solely on nature isn’t always possible—especially during midday when the sun is at its peak.
🔧 Gear That Provides Shade
Many recumbent trike riders opt for accessories like canopies or sunshades. These lightweight shelters attach to your trike, creating a mobile shade. While effective, they can impact speed and maneuverability—something I learned firsthand during one particularly scorching summer.
💡 Anecdote: The Canopy Experiment
Approximately seven years ago, during a heatwave with temperatures soaring beyond 36°C (96.8°F), I embarked on a 90 km (about 56 miles) cycling journey from Gent through Antwerp to Herentals—right under the unrelenting sun. This experience led me to order a canopy for my trike. The canopy, imported from the US, came with customs taxes here in Belgium. Given our weather—where rain is simply colder in winter and slightly warmer in summer—it served double duty as both sun and rain protection.
The canopy certainly shielded me from the sun, and during overwhelming downpours, it offered welcome shelter. Yet, it came with a price beyond its cost: speed. The winds near the coast, combined with the flat landscapes of Belgium and the Netherlands, turned the canopy into a sail that slowed me down considerably. Despite this, it added a touch of coziness on long journeys. When no better sleeping spot was available, I would rest right on my trike, feet on the pedals, with the canopy providing a sense of shelter overhead.
After five or six years, I eventually removed it. Although it looked cool and did its job, the trade-off in speed wasn’t worth it. Now, when the sun becomes too intense, I switch to what I call “night rider mode.” There’s a unique beauty to cycling at night—the world is quieter, cooler, and illuminated by moonlight. When the days get too hot… I let the night come!
🗂️ Practical Tips for Staying Cool
✅ Time Your Rides – Start early in the morning or cycle after sunset to avoid the harshest sun.
✅ Light, Breathable Clothing – Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics that reflect rather than absorb heat.
✅ Hydration is Key – Carry plenty of water and sip frequently to stay hydrated.
✅ Cooling Accessories – A wet bandana around your neck or cooling sleeves can help regulate your temperature.
✅ Portable Shade Solutions – A removable canopy or sunshade is great for touring, but consider the trade-off in speed.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does cycling with a canopy slow you down?
Yes, especially in windy regions like coastal areas. The canopy acts like a sail, catching the wind and reducing speed.
❓ Is a canopy worth it for sun protection?
If you frequently ride in extreme heat, a canopy can prevent sunburn and overheating. However, its impact on speed and handling might not suit everyone.
❓ What’s the best alternative if I don’t want a canopy?
Riding early in the morning or after sunset, wearing UV-protective clothing, and using cooling accessories can keep you comfortable without sacrificing speed.
📅 Long-Term Strategies for Hot Weather Touring
Adapt your touring schedule to the seasons. In summer, shorter daytime rides combined with longer night rides can help you stay cool. Consider planning routes with natural shade or near bodies of water that offer refreshing breezes. Lightweight, breathable clothing and efficient hydration habits should become second nature.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Touring under the summer sun presents unique challenges, but with the right strategies, you can enjoy the adventure without overheating. Whether you choose a canopy for shade or embrace the cool beauty of night riding, the key is to stay flexible and adapt to the conditions. After all, every ride—day or night—adds another unforgettable chapter to your cycling journey.
What’s your favorite way to beat the summer heat on tour? Share your tips and stories in the comments!
