Your Guide to Under-Helmet Headwear
The right cycling headwear is a small piece of gear that makes a huge difference. Worn under your helmet, these technical layers are designed to manage the elements—whether it's sweat, sun, wind, or cold—so you can focus on the ride.
Headwear for Summer & Warm Weather
In warm conditions, the goal is moisture management. A good headwear piece stops sweat from dripping into your eyes and helps it evaporate, keeping you cooler.
- Cycling Caps: The classic choice. The brim offers shade and protection from sun and rain, while the cap itself wicks sweat. It's a favorite for road and gravel riders and works great for mountain biking, too.
- Skull Caps & Helmet Liners: These are thin, form-fitting, and designed to fit perfectly under a helmet. Made from high-wicking materials, they are the best solution for stopping sweat on hot climbs.
- Headbands: A minimalist option focused purely on keeping sweat off your brow and out of your eyes.
Headwear for Winter & Cold Weather
In cold conditions, the goal is insulation and wind protection.
- Thermal Skull Caps: These are made from thicker, fleece-lined materials (like thermal synthetics or merino wool) and often feature wind-blocking panels on the front. They are designed to cover your ears and forehead to prevent heat loss.
- Balaclavas: For deep cold, a balaclava offers full-face and neck protection. This is essential for winter fat biking, cold-weather mountain biking, and high-speed e-bike riding where wind chill is a major factor.
