How to be a breezy rider

Soaked with sweat, smelly, and squinting in the stark sun? It's not a pretty sight and it's far from a pretty ride to the office.

Although cycling is a breezy alternative to the sweltering Tube and buses (nothing beats whooshing by the sun-speckled Thames), pedalling several miles in the tropical metropolis can still be tiring.

London has hit temperatures of 35.4ºC - a record high - and, with conditions like that, equipment and preparation are crucial, particularly if you want to avoid overheating and dehydrating while attaining an element of panache on the roads. Here's our guide on how to cycle in style...

Glasses

Hers: Large, retro glasses for those who want to protect their eyes from the road's grit thrown up by traffic. Spitfire range £7.

His: Functional and light, Ryders's range of interchangeable styles suit everyone. Switch comes with two pairs of extra lenses (to cover varying light conditions), plus a handy zip-up case to keep the lenses clean. Ryders Switch £37.99.

Bags

Hers: The NYC-style courier bag has waterproof lining, making it ideal for carrying precious work; there's plenty of reflective trim ensuring good visibility and it's little and light. Altura 10l courier bag £24.99, Cycle Surgery.

His: Not only does it contain a 2l water bladder and drink valve, but there are insulated side pockets for storing and keeping cans and nibbles cool. The padded spine adds extra comfort when carrying heavy loads. Rockrider 6 waterbag 20l rucksack (pictured) £37.99, Decathlon.

Happy head

Theirs: While it's strongly advised you wear a helmet at all times when riding, it's not compulsory for adults and many choose not to wear one. For those who don't, here's your answer to overcoming sweat in your eyes and a dripping forehead. Bandana, Oktos tube headband £8.49, Decathlon.

Tops

Hers: The Day-Glo, stripy top is every girlie's dream-buy for bike-riding. Its sleeveless Y-shaped back design makes it sexy as well as practical. And the fabrics absorb extra moisture. Women's Pearl Izumi Sleeveless Jersey, £17, Cycle Surgery.

His: Urban chic and simultaneously light on the body - what more could you ask for? Providing a light Airtex-style fabric, it's a T-shirt which is comfortably cool. Pearl Izumi Boulder T-shirt, £28, Cycle Surgery.

Bottoms up

Hers: Simple, blue stretchy shorts with a seamless seat for protecting you against the saddle. Female couriers wear their tight shorts with mini skirts, which often jazzes up what's otherwise quite a grotesque sight.

Blue boxer £19.99, Decathlon.

His: Whether you're a skater, BMXer or a commuter, the shorts offer freedom of movement, look mighty fine and have a built-in liner, making the saddle more comfy to ride on. Rockrider shorts (pictured) £16.99, Decathlon.

Sock it to me

Theirs: Toesocks stop toes from squishing together. Perfect for absorbing the moisture built up between your toes, the 90 per cent cotton prevents rubbing and gives added grip inside shoes. They're rather fetching, too. Stripy £7.49, knee-highs £7.49, anklets £5.49, all from Toesocks.

Choose shoes

Theirs: Built with a trim heel and fitted toe box, Katos are essentially mountain shoes, but suit commuting too. The nylon mesh offers airiness making them comfortable, abrasion resistant and quick drying for hot, sweaty tootsies. The outsole grips ensure good pedalling traction. Nike Kato £54.99, Trek.