The "topless" piece is nothing more than a headband. For those of you who immediately think of a thick terry cloth and spandex item, you will be in for a pleasant surprise. The Headsweats headband consists of two thin layers of CoolMax, which makes for a thinner piece. This easily allows the use of a bicycle helmet over it. The inner layer is a soft CoolMax and terry combination. During our use of it, it sufficiently kept sweat from running down our faces and yet did not become soaking wet and uncomfortable.

The "shorty" is like a skullcap with a short tail on the back. Again, the thin CoolMax fabric makes for very comfortable wear. A CoolMax/terry band circles the base of the shorty with the exception of a band of elastic at the back. The one size fits all technology is incorporated here and it easily fit those of us with different head shapes and sizes that tried it on. For those of us concerned not only with functional equipment but also looking good, the skullcap will prevent the dreaded helmet hair look.

The "classic" is very similar to the skullcap with the exception of the elastic band in the back. Instead of having a short tail, it has three longer tails to knot and secure on your head. The classic also has some elasticity, which allows proper fit for different head sizes.

The "skullcap" is once again similar to the shorty but does not have an inner terry band or elastic. It looks like a swim cap. So if your preference is something without a tail, the skullcap is your choice. Once again, the thin CoolMax material allows for helmet wear without having to adjust the straps on your helmet.

The CoolMax "Race Hat" is similar to your standard baseball cap, only with the light CoolMax mesh material. The back of the cap has a quick release buckle and a strap to adjust sizing. It is certified as 40+ ultraviolet protection factor. It also has a terry band around the circumference of the cap. Again, the comfort of this hat was very good as it's less than two-ounce weight seemed as though it wasn't even on.

You've seen Fred Rodriguez wear the stars and stripes shorty in the Tour last year. Colors range from basic white and black to brilliant red, yellow, and blue. For more full color photos, product descriptions and to order, visit Headsweats.

In summary, Headsweats products were very functional and remained unobtrusive for the wearer. They did not become saturated with moisture as the functional CoolMax did its job. They worked in both warm temperatures in the US and on a 38-degree cloudy day in Denmark. They are not only functional for bicycling, but for any activity where you are going to work up a sweat. The wide variety of styles from a thin headband to a billed cap allows you to use what suits your style. Thanks to Dupont for their CoolMax fabric and to Headsweats for making functional head wear. In reviewing these products, Roadcycling.com reviewers found no shortcomings.

Headsweats : www.headsweats.com