Learn how to deal with punctures on long rides with prevention tips, repair techniques, and smart gear choices to keep rolling without stress.
WHAT ARE THE BEST COOLING TOWELS FOR CYCLISTS?
When the temperature spikes, cooling towels can be a game-changer for cyclists. Whether you’re grinding up climbs or resting post-ride, the right towel helps regulate your core temperature and reduce heat fatigue. In this guide, we break down what makes a cooling towel effective, review top-rated options for 2025, and explain how to integrate them into your cycling routine for maximum performance and comfort.
How cooling towels actually work
Cooling towels use evaporative technology to lower skin temperature quickly and naturally. Most are made from hyper-evaporative materials like PVA or mesh-blend fabrics that retain water while allowing airflow. When wet, these materials rapidly pull heat from the body as the water evaporates.
Evaporation is the secret weapon
As water evaporates from the towel, it absorbs energy (heat) from your skin. This natural thermoregulation effect is amplified during dry, breezy rides but works in humid conditions too—though slightly less efficiently.
Placement matters
For cyclists, placing a cooling towel around the neck or under your helmet during rest stops can help cool the carotid arteries and reduce core body temperature. Some riders tuck it under jersey collars or lay it across shoulders post-ride.
Made from PVA, microfiber, or breathable mesh
Works via evaporative cooling after being soaked
Stays cool for 30–60 minutes per wetting
Reusable and easy to store in jersey pocket
Best applied to neck, head, or wrists
Top cooling towel picks for 2025
Cyclists need gear that’s compact, durable, and actually works under sweaty conditions. Here are five standout cooling towels in 2025 that combine performance, portability, and value.
Mission Original Cooling Towel
This cult favorite remains a top pick for its consistent cooling and soft texture. Made of PVA, it holds moisture well and stays cool for up to 2 hours. At 10” x 33”, it's large enough to drape over the neck or wrap around handlebars.
Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad
Known for durability and low cost, the Chilly Pad offers solid cooling with minimal fuss. It dries stiff but reactivates quickly when soaked. Great for post-ride cooldowns or heatwave intervals.
U-pick 4-Pack Microfiber Towels
Budget-friendly and lightweight, these microfiber towels dry faster than PVA and are ideal for on-the-go cyclists. They’re thin but effective, especially for quick cooldowns during training breaks.
Mission Original: Soft, long-lasting, perfect for training rides
Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad: Cheap, rugged, excellent for hot events
U-pick Microfiber: Packs small, dries fast, ideal for mid-ride use
Ergodyne Chill-Its 6602: High absorption and good sun protection
Alfamo Cooling Towel: Soft mesh, UPF 50+, great for multi-use
Tips for using cooling towels effectively
Having a cooling towel is one thing—using it effectively during rides is another. Cyclists can maximize the cooling effect by prepping towels right and placing them strategically.
Pre-wet and refrigerate before riding
Soak your towel in cold water and wring it out until damp, then chill it in the fridge or freezer for 10–15 minutes. Store it in a zip-seal bag inside your jersey pocket or saddle bag. It’ll be icy when you need it most.
Use during rest stops or warm-ups
Apply the towel during mid-ride coffee breaks, long traffic lights, or warm-up routines before events. It helps stabilize your body temperature and reduces sweat rate before peak effort.
Rotate with hydration strategies
Combine towel use with chilled water intake or ice slurries. The dual effect of external and internal cooling can significantly delay heat-related performance decline, especially during summer races or hill climbs.
Always wring towels before placing on skin to avoid drips
Avoid using on sunburned areas—cooling might irritate
Store towels in dry bags to avoid soggy gear
Re-wet towels at fountains or cafes mid-ride
Pair with breathable jerseys for faster evaporation
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