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Cute Commuter posts are back by popular demand and one question I got from a reader is how to stay fresh when commuting to work in the summer. One of the many misconceptions about commuting to work is that you’ll arrive at your destination looking like a hot mess and in desperate need of a shower and change of clothes. I’m here to tell you after several years of commuting to work, you won’t be a sweaty mess who needs a shower. However, this may be the case if you’re planning on speeding to work for 20 miles. So, if you’re planning to continue to ride throughout summer, don’t be afraid to glow. Here are just a few ways to avoid getting flustered and sweaty on your commute.
Accessorize Your Ride
You may think carrying your things in a back pack is a simpler option for carrying your things but ditch it. You will find over time that not are you only carrying extra weight on your body that may slow you down but that you’ll have sore shoulders and a sweaty back. Consider investing in a rear WALD bike rack, front WALD wire basket, and PO Campo Mardy Cargo panniers so you can take the weight of yourself and allow your clothing to breath and body to enjoy the breeze,
Pack Smart
If you’re cycling to work or a date, you may feel the need to fresh up when you arrive to your destination. Consider packing these few items to nip to the toilet for a quick change and touch up: spare shoes, spare underwear, face wipes, travel deodorant, travel makeup kit, dry shampoo and a comb. Being equipped will hep you walk into your meeting feeling more confident and comfortable to tackle the day ahead.
Keep A Low-Maintenance Hairstyle
Helmet head and a sweaty hairline will bust a hair do, but if you keep your hair in braids or a sleek ponytail or bun, you wont’ have to worry too much about helmet hair. If you’re someone who has a fringe like me, I usually quickly wet my bangs and dry them under the hand dryer with a comb. It’s a quick fix! Ask your stylist to give you a cut that’s easy to pull back or wear straightened for when you bike. Dry shampoo and a comb will help freshen up your do too.
For more on hair, Brit & Co also has 19 ways to style your hair under a helmet.
Sun Proof
Riding a bike is good for your overall health and all that fresh air is good for your skin. Just remember to lather some sunscreen and shade your eyes before you take off. I highly recommend a non-greasy broad-spectrum sunscreen moisturizer with antioxidants to add another layer of protection too. Depending on how long you’re out in the sun, you’ll want to keep a spf stick on hand too. You want to make sure you’re getting the best protection while keeping your pores breathing to release sweat.
Pedal Slower
Your commuting time is more predictable by bike. If you can, choose a route that is slower, less congested, and shaded with trees to help keep you cool and on time. Allow enough time to take it easy while you ride; going slower means sweating less, and you’ll thank your slowpoke pace for a cleaner day at work. Make sure though that you give yourself some time before work to cool d
own and drink plenty of water!
Safe But Cool
While helmet hair isn’t cool, keeping your head safe is. While a commuter may not need an aerodynamic helmet to keep dry and fresh, opting for a stylish lightweight and ventilated helmet can help keep your head cool. Helmets such as Thousand Heritage helmet and Bern’s Brighton helmet are equipped to keep you fresh. Both are designed with ThinShell technology and ventilation vents to keep you sweat free and safe while you keep up with traffic.
Image: @stefaniebalesfineart