I wear a regular headband but I have a friend that uses the Castelli version and he loves it. N=1 but it has his vote.
Given the lack of bike movement means there is more continual saddle pressure on the trainer than outdoors, I am not sure that using bibs with a worn-out chamois on the trainer is a great idea.
Which leaves the problem of how do the tight-fisted amongst us (myself included) use up our old-but-not-dead-yet bib shorts??
I’ve only got 8 pairs of shorts or bibs. I have 2 pairs that I consider my best (read comfortable) that I save for long workouts. Of the rest, I save the best available for when I know I know I’m going to be on the trainer vs outdoors. For the worst pairs, I’ll use them on short rides or those that are z2 only.
I’ve switched to exclusively using mesh-style base layers instead of jerseys indoors. The Rapha Pro Team ones were recommended on a podcast and I like them very much. I use my regular bibs and two blower fans. Still drip some in the summer, but it’s bearable.
I also deal with allergies and eczema, so here are a few things I do to help:
- Mesh base layer - I always wear bibs, so the base layer helps prevent chaffing or sweat rash from the straps. I’ve seen these go on sale for 30-40% off at times, so it’s a great buy: https://www.pactimo.com/collections/mens-cycling-base-layers/products/zero-weight-cycling-base-layer-mens
- Vacuum frequently - In the spring when pollen counts are high, even indoors my eyes are sensitive to all the allergens blown in my face by my fan setup. I vacuum my training space twice a week on rest days.
- Air purifier - Same as above.
- Switch to morning workouts - I prefer to ride in the evenings, but when I know it’s going to be hot, I’ll switch to morning workouts to prevent overheating and minimize heat related skin flare ups.
Even with all that, sometimes my skin will still have issues, but it’s definitely helped enough where I don’t feel my performance is negatively affected.
Had similar issues with eczema and understand how frustrating it can be. I thought the extra sweat from training indoors triggered my symptoms, but working with a dermatologist and tracking daily activities and symptoms was really helpful. I found actually the strongest symptoms came on with excess stress (training stress included) and lack of sleep. In fact at this point I treat an outbreak as a sign I’m reaching a little too far and will dial back a touch. I also switched to fragrance/ soap free bodywash which helped, and switching to plain lotion (Cerave works well for me) and infant detergent (seventh generation) reduced my symptoms.
Assos kit can stand the test of time, so I wouldn’t worry about that.
Indoor kit sounds like a gimmick to me with manufacturers jumping on the indoor riding bandwagon.
These are nice and lightweight (kinda meshy) with a decent pad
Uniqlo Airism Mesh v-neck tshirt - https://www.uniqlo.com/us/en/men-airism-micro-mesh-v-neck-short-sleeve-t-shirt-423525.html?dwvar_423525_color=COL09&cgid=men-airism (the non-micro mesh is better - also note that these can hold onto smells, so you’ll need to toss them after a year or so).
- ripped old bibs
Spotted this today: NoPinz unveils indoor training specific SubZero kit with active core temperature-cooling technology | road.cc
Interesting idea; my physio had access to GameReady device when I was recovering from a shoulder injury, I always wanted to rig it up like the water-cooled vests in The Martian.
Literally just seeing this so I don’t have thoughts but wanted to share
Hey there! I am thinking about investing in a SubZero-Shorts from NoPinz for indoor training. Nevertheless it’s quiet pricy - so I I was wondering if anyone got any experience with it?
Best regards from Germany
One review if you have not seen it.
For those having skin issues I have to watch what soap I use. I also add a Lysol additive that eliminates bacteria that did make a difference.
I found this helped but I did find I needed to run the bibs through a second rinse just to ensure no residue left on. It took some time for my skin issue to be resolved.
i use vinegar. No bad smell, no extra rinse needed, no bacteria.
If you are still having skin issues then I’d be considering how often you shower and how soon after a workout. I know that when I commute and shower twice a day my skin is worse.
In respect of the original question, I’d suggest that most of the indoor specific clothing isn’t that technical. Some are just thin baselayers with a zip on the front. I find that making the environment I am working out in cooler is the best option.
@lemonlime, I moved your post into the existing one on the topic with related discussion.