Squirt Sweatsucker headband

Thanks to Squirt’s Sweat Sucker the humble headband comes of age. Discrete, extremely effective and fully helmet compatible, gone are the days when turbo sessions and scorching summer training runs meant looking like an extra from fame, suffering unsightly rashes and perspiration running inside eyewear. However, the design mustn’t be tossed in with the civilian machine wash, works best in conjunction with a helmet (worn outside of the straps) and should be replaced every three months.

Free from elastic, it is a one-size fits all, perforated porous strip packed like a stuffed crust pizza with highly absorbent granules. It simply ties around the forehead, soaking up sweat without swelling. Once saturated, moisture is purged in a capillary action along the sides and ultimately via the helmet straps or rider’s cheeks onto the ground.

In practice it works surprisingly well without slipping and discrete dimensions mean the sweat sucker doesn’t draw any unwanted attention. Wicking prowess is comparable to that of breathable fabrics, remaining consistently dry during an hour’s intense turbo session. Having said that, it’s hard to beat a good free-flow of air and conveniently placed towel. Ours has remained refreshingly odourless despite repeated wearing and no rinsing but unlike the Bjorn Borg type, it cannot be machine-washed so regular, gentle post ride rinsing/soaking in detergent free, tepid water is a wise precaution.

Verdict

Ingenious, discrete and hygienic technical headband that works best with helmets.