Why Long Sleeves May Keep You Cooler During Runs and Rides?

We’re not talking about fashion – but literally cooler body temperature-wise.

Wearing more might actually help you sweat less! When it comes to endurance sports, it’s not about wearing less. It’s about wearing smarter.

Let’s discuss what is better for cooling your body? Short sleeves vs long sleeves.

🚴♂️ For Cycling:

• Long sleeves in lightweight, UV-protective fabrics can reduce direct solar gain and keep skin temperature slightly lower, especially since you're getting constant airflow from movement
• That’s why many cyclists and triathletes wear arm sleeves or long-sleeved jerseys on the bike leg of a triathlon—it's about sustained sun exposure over hours at high speeds

🏃♀️ For Running:

• Short sleeves (or sleeveless tops) often feel cooler, especially when running in humid conditions where evaporative cooling is limited
• Direct sun on bare skin does increase radiant heat load, but during a run, you're moving fast enough (and usually generating airflow) that sweat evaporation still wins

Summary: