Base layer testing for me has been pretty much continuous and ongoing over the last 10+ months here at Cyclingnews. Even though the best base layers buyers guide I worked on earlier in the year is completed (for now). I find myself constantly monitoring the temperature before getting changed for rides, noting which base layer I’m wearing and with what cycling kit and how it performs, whilst sometimes deliberately trying to get things wrong to see how a certain piece fares.
As such, I’ve built a fairly healthy bank of information and experience on the range of base layers at my disposal for testing and have comfortably arrived at my winners here. You may not be very surprised to hear at this point that i’m a big base layer fan in general anyway. I like to wear a base layer on pretty much every ride. I really value a solid starting point for cold, harsh winter rides and a toasty base layer helps me feel ready to do battle. I also feel more comfortable when sweating buckets up a climb under a blazing sun and when it comes to the descent or riding on the flat again, the base layer comes into its own.
I will also add, I’ve done plenty of riding in a £3 cotton vest or basic base layer. In fact, I still have a few in the bottom of the kit drawer for emergencies, but all things being equal I both rate and value a quality base layer. Read on to see my pick of the best. I’ve considered performance, price point, comfort, as well as my own personal preferences after a lot of riding in each piece.
Summer Winners
The Rapha Pro Team base layer has become something of a go-to base layer for me since I’ve been testing it. It stood out due to its excellent fit, comfort and performance. Styling is the last thing I’m worried about when it comes to a base layer, but it is pretty stylish as base layers go with its nod to Paris Roubaix on the front.
The fit is really great for me, there’s no excess material or bagginess just a purposeful, performance fit that’s very comfortable. Once it’s on you don’t notice…
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