Allergies and apparel

wamslers

I have pretty nasty hayfever/allergies, but I love to bike. When I lived out west this wasn't too big of a deal, but now I live in Michigan, and my allergies make me think twice sometimes before I go for a ride. I get a rash on any exposed part of my body that can last from a few hours to a couple days. I am anti-medication, and refuse to screw myself up taking allergy pills.

I've discovered in the past couple of weeks, that if I ride in my old baggy sweat pants and a long sleeve shirt, I feel great afterwards. Of course, sweat pants aren't the most comfortable things to ride in, and I do tend to overheat a bit.

So my question is (and hopefully it isn't too silly): has anyone had to deal with this same problem, and what type of apparel did you finally settle on? I suppose I could try a "full body spandex suit". But first I thought I'd see if anyone had any other recommendations.

Thanks in advance.