Setting: hot summer

So I understand, mosquitos have a harder time getting through tightly knit/woven fabric. However, tight fabric can also get pretty hot to be in. I was thinking that something like parachute material would be both tightly knit, yet also breathable because it is so lightweight.

Alternatively, you could wear cheap, loose knit, highly breathable garments, that have been soaked with permethrin (or others, see below).

I would like to hear from people that have tried both of these options (or maybe a better option altogether), and what they prefer.

references:
http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/...le_pagination=1
http://www.bikeforums.net/touring/282189-mosquito-proof-fabrics.html

" The net won't stop you being bitten though, it has to be separated from your skin, any cloth will do that. YOU can use little foam blocks to make a two layer netting that drapes over your body, but doesn't allow you to get stung.

I have a bug jacket that is made out of green cotton netting like cheesecloth, one soaks it in a preparation of citronella, and it repels bugs for an extensive period of time, days or weeks. I haven't seen them for sale for a while though. "

" Pyrethrum is a natural insecticide derived from Crysanthemums. "

Wow, even more great ideas!

During the hot part of the day, even if it is in the 70's, I don't see many mosquitoes. I just deal with the few that are out and try not to cover up too much. However, with that said, usually when I am high altitude, I like to wear the lightweight nylon shirts and pants, and generally like a long sleeve one, more for sun protection. I also have a full brim hat on. Only at night and in the morning do I put on a head net.

Mosquitoes really bother me. Itch persists for days after a single bite. :-/

Am a fan of permethryn-treated clothing and depending on what part of the season cycle it is, will carry enough to keep me covered mornings and evenings, while they're really out. Keep a treated headnet in the pack for the trail and sometimes wear treated pants on the go as well.

Mid-late season it becomes moot most years.

Cheers,

For very hot days, a cheesecloth long sleeve shirt, soaked in permethrin, sounds like the best solution. Either that, or citronella (healthier option). However, I don't know where to find a long sleeve cheesecloth shirt, or some citronella solution/oil to soak it in.

Also, I lost my headnet. Headnets seem like they shouldn't cost more than $3, but I find them for 2-3 times that much.

Same for me.

My understanding is that the itch of mosquito bites is a histamine reaction, similar to hives or other allergies. That's why caladryl lotion applied topically helps; it contains benedryl, an antihistamine.

Because I have seasonal pollen allergies (hay fever), I take antihistamine pills regularly all through the spring and summer. One unexpected side benefit is that the mosquito bites I get don't result in itchy red bumps. I barely notice them.