I don' know all that much about riding around town in CA.

I went for an 80 mile ride Wednesday afternoon on my local roads, and I was wearing a full face helmet, armored jacket, armored gloves, jeans and boots.  Mos of the ride was in the 40 - 60 mph range.

I don't know what the local bugs are made out of - but some of them must be be wearing helmets and armor as well.  I had 1 bug hit my shoulder and another hit my leg that had enough of in impact that it "stung" - and caused me to wonder how a bug could cause that much of an impact.  I believe they are the same bugs that when they hit your helmet make a loud "THWACK" sound.

So......you aren't going to ever find me riding in sandals, shorts or T shirts - it would just be too painful!