Bright vs. Dark: Which Cycling Jersey Colors Keep You Coolest in Summer?
Summer cycling is a balancing act. You want to stay cool, protect your skin from the sun, and remain visible on the road, all while riding hard in the heat. One of the most debated questions among cyclists is surprisingly simple: should you wear bright or dark cycling jerseys in summer? The answer isn’t as straightforward as “light is always cooler.” Let’s explore the science behind colour, heat, UV protection, and visibility to help you choose the smartest jersey colour for hot-weather rides. The Science of Colour and Heat Absorption At a basic level, colour affects how much heat fabric absorbs. Dark colours, like black or navy, absorb more sunlight, converting it into heat. Light colours, such as white, yellow, or pastel shades, reflect more sunlight, which generally helps keep the fabric cooler to the touch. This is why you’ll often feel a black jersey heat up faster when standing still in direct sun. However, cycling isn’t a static activity, and airflow changes the equation sign...