Which fabric should Public Safety Cyclists avoid in their clothing?

• A. Cotton
• B. Nylon
• C. Polyester
• D. Wool

Answer: (A)

Maintaining moisture management in clothing is essential for public safety cyclists. Cotton soaks up sweat quickly and holds onto water, which means it stays heavy and damp instead of moving moisture away from the skin. When it’s wet, cotton also loses its insulating value and dries slowly, leading to chill, discomfort, and more skin irritation from rubbing during long rides or in cooler conditions. In field work, you want fabrics that wick moisture and dry quickly to keep you comfortable, maintain mobility, and stay safer in varying temperatures. Synthetics like polyester or nylon, and even wool, are designed to move moisture away from the skin and dry faster, which is why cotton is the fabric to avoid.