Shredding in style is no longer just about looking cool on the slopes; it’s also about having all the right gear to keep you comfortable in any weather. As snowboarding becomes increasingly popular, athletes and amateurs alike are pushing themselves to explore new territories and challenging terrains. As the weather becomes hotter, there is a greater demand for innovative gear that provides optimal comfort and protection against the sun’s harsh rays. So, what’s the secret to shredding in style in hot weather? Here are some tips and recommendations for lightweight apparel and accessories to wear while shredding on hot weather.
Protective Layers
Shredding in warm weather means it’s even more important than ever to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. One of the best ways to do this is with a lightweight, breathable, and protective layer. Look for clothes with ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) ratings to provide extra protection against the sun. A UPF rating of 50+ is ideal, as it blocks out 98% of UV radiation.
A lightweight long-sleeve shirt made of breathable materials like cotton or nylon is perfect for shredding in hot weather. You can pair it with a pair of UPF-rated shorts or leggings for added protection. Don’t forget about your headwear; a cap or a wide-brimmed hat is a great way to protect your eyes, face, and neck from the sun’s rays. These protective layers not only keep you safe but also keep you cool, allowing air to circulate under the clothing.
Footwear
Choosing the right footwear is also an essential part of shredding in hot weather. As you sweat, your feet are more prone to getting wet with sweat and discomfort. You want something that can keep you cool and comfortable while also providing great grip and stability to maximize your performance. The skateboarding genre has been the source of inspiration for many snowboarding shoe designs, providing the perfect balance of flexibility and support.
Low-top shoes with a vulcanized rubber sole are a popular choice among snowboarders, they provide maximum grip and support, while flexible and ultra-lightweight materials make them the perfect warm-weather choice. If you decide to go with high-top boots, it’s essential to choose breathable synthetic material and liners that won’t trap heat, or look for winter boots meant for hotter climates.
Goggles or Shades
Protecting your eyes is important when shredding on hot weather, not just for protection against the sun’s UV rays but also because of the glare and reflection from the snow can damage your eyes. Always choose goggles or glasses that have 100% UV protection filters that come with amber, rose, or red lenses that allow high contrast and can help dissipate glare. Dark lenses can reduce blue light, which affects your recognition of snowy terrain features, leading to accidents.
If you opt for goggles, choose ones that have ventilation to prevent fogging up in humid weather. The breathable ones promote the airflow that helps to keep the goggles vented, and the ventilation proceeds to clear the fog that could accumulate when you stop riding.
Sporty Accessories
When you want to shred during hot weather, sporty accessories can help you shred in style. Headbands or sweatbands can help keep sweat from getting in your eyes and keep your head cool. You can also use bandanas around the neck to help keep you cool by dipping them in cold water.
Another great accessory to have if you’re shredding on hot weather is a backpack designed for snowboarding. These packs have dedicated compartments for your snowboarding gear, snacks, and hydration systems. Some packs also come with insulated hydration sleeves to help maintain the temperature of your cold water in hot weather.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm
One thing you must have when shredding on hot weather is sunscreen. Applying sunscreen before you hit the slopes is essential when you’re out in the sun all day. Make sure you use a waterproof sunscreen with at least 30 SPF or higher as water and sweat can quickly wash it away. Don’t forget to reapply throughout the day.
While you’re at it, it’s also important to protect your lips with lip balm with SPF. The sun can dry out your lips and lead to chapping or cracking. Having a lip balm in your bag makes it easy to reapply throughout the day for prevention from discomfort.
Cooling Packs
When it’s hot outside, staying cool is a key aspect of shredding in style. One of the best ways to keep cool is to have cooling packs on hand. Cooling packs are made to be worn around the neck, providing a cooling sensation when activated by water. It’s a great way to prevent overheating and maintain your cool.
Conclusion
Shredding in hot weather can be completely different from shredding in winter weather. Therefore, it’s essential to stay outfitted with equipment that can keep you cool, dry, and comfortable. Wearing lightweight, breathable, and protective layers, choosing sporty accessories, selecting protective eyewear, applying sunscreen, and lip balm and having cooling packs can make a massive difference in the experience. Adequately preparing for hot weather will ensure that you can shred in style comfortably!
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