Excessive Sweating While Driving

Sweating While Driving Can Affect Your Ability to Drive

We've all been there in the summer when it's boiling outside: despite the air conditioning, it feels really stuffy in the car. This doesn't just put a damper on things, but it also means you get tired more quickly and your concentration while driving takes a hit.

That's why it's especially important to keep a cool head when you're on the road.

Sweaty Backs – Particularly Annoying When Driving

The sun shining through the windows doesn't just heat up the car; it really gets to the driver and passengers. Especially in those spots that "stick" to the car seat, like your back, bum, and thighs, the heat builds up, and we start sweating even with the air con on.

Here are some tips on what you can do to arrive at your destination feeling as fresh as a daisy, despite long journeys and hot weather:

Set the Air Conditioning to Room Temperature

Please don't make the mistake of setting the air conditioning to "fridge temperature". All that does is make you feel freezing in the car. Plus, it makes getting out of the car unnecessarily difficult. The difference between the inside and outside temperature is then too great, and your body reacts immediately by sweating… cue a sweat attack.

But don't be too cautious and put the heating on either. That just makes the car unnecessarily warm. Stuffy air and annoying sweating all over are the unwanted results, as well as reduced concentration.

Feel Free to Open the Window Now and Again While Driving, Even with the Air Con On

Fresh air always does you good and boosts your alertness again. Plus, the airflow from driving creates a pleasant circulation – getting rid of that "still and oppressive" air. It's best to open the back windows; that way, the airflow sucks the heat out of the vehicle better and faster, and you don't get a draught.

Take a Break More Often

Especially in summer with high temperatures, your body is under a lot of strain – and therefore gets tired more quickly. That's why it's a good idea to treat yourself to a refreshing break more often on longer car journeys. Get out of the car, and let a fresh breeze through your clothes combat not only built-up heat but also tiredness and fading concentration.

Wear Thermoregulating Functional Underwear While Driving

Functional clothing made from Thermocool® yarn is particularly suitable here. The unique weaving technique ensures good circulation and a perfect balance of body temperature, so your skin neither freezes nor sweats. You can then comfortably change the shirt for your business attire for that important meeting upon arrival – or simply put your business shirt on over it. That way, you won't break a sweat at your appointment either.

Wear Light, Airy Clothing if Functional Clothing Isn't an Option

Avoid tight, thick jeans. Instead, smarten yourself up and choose light, chic trousers made from pure cotton or linen.

When choosing tops, you should also give preference to airy, light, and short-sleeved tops made from pure cotton or linen. You're better off leaving clothes made from synthetic fabrics right at the back of your wardrobe during this time of year.

Alternatively, you can, of course, always fall back on functional shirts. Here, it naturally depends on what kind of appointment you're driving to and what you feel most comfortable in.

Also Pay Attention to the Colour When Choosing Clothes

Black surfaces absorb more sunlight than white ones. That's why black cars heat up particularly strongly in summer. But black doesn't just absorb more heat; it also radiates more heat. And the human body constantly produces heat that somehow needs to be conducted outwards. Black clothing can do this better – however, the basic requirement here is that it is worn very loosely and not tight against the body. Therefore, dark clothing is less suitable for driving.

Regarding tight-fitting T-shirts, the opposite is true: you sweat the most in black clothing and the least in white clothing. So, if a longer car journey is on the cards, you should rather opt for light-coloured clothing.

Avoid Seat Covers Made of (Artificial) Leather on Longer Car Journeys

These prevent good air circulation and stop sweat from being transported away from the body. The result is heat build-up! This leads to the body sweating more to compensate for the increased temperature.

If your seats are made of synthetic fabric or you don't want to do without the seat cover, you can also drape a cotton towel over the seats while driving. This then absorbs the moisture, so that sweat can be transported directly away from the body and clothing. In addition, the coarse towel structure allows air to circulate better between the skin and the towel. The heat on your back, bum, and thighs will therefore build up less.

Wear Open Shoes

When choosing shoes for driving, you should think practically. High-closed shoes offer little room for circulation. Sweaty and smelly feet are a given. If you're on your way to an important appointment, then wear comfortable shoes while driving and change them for your business shoes when you arrive at your destination.

But don't go too sporty with your shoe choice either! Flip-flops, open sandals, or even going barefoot are an absolute no-go when driving! They don't offer firm support and therefore endanger driving safety. You can slip off the pedals too easily. It's better to opt for lace-up sandals with a secure fit here. These are airy enough but also offer secure support while driving.

You can best prevent foot sweat preventatively with effective antiperspirants. And for in between, refreshing foot wipes with an immediate effect and nourishing panthenol are ideal. And the journey continues with steady, well-cared-for feet.

Avoid Sweaty Hands While Driving

Sweaty hands can become a problem when driving. Your grip is no longer firm and secure. Plus, you don't even want to think about what might be teeming on the steering wheel with so much moisture – bacteria say hello!

Frequent hand washing with antibacterial soaps is, of course, a must here. Not always possible on a car journey? No problem! Antibacterial hand sanitising gels for on the go help here, allowing you to wash your hands without water, soap, and a towel.

In addition, antiperspirants specially designed for hands can ensure that hands sweat significantly less. You can find practical wipes with an immediate effect and antibacterial action here.

When it comes to hygiene, don't forget the fittings and the steering wheel, which are frequently touched by our hands. Here too, it's best to reach for the little helpers for on the go: cleaning wipes or disinfectant wipes. It's best to always keep a few individual wipes or a box of wipes in the glove compartment. That way, they are always directly accessible when needed.

First published: 12.05.2011

Updated: 27.05.2025