Best cycling base layers: The starting point for on bike comfort
The best cycling base layers are an essential foundation for optimal temperate regulation
The best cycling base layers can provide a foundation for comfort while cycling. Despite being often unseen and overlooked, base layers play a crucial role in regulating your temperature and ensuring optimal performance on the bike. If a rider is too hot or too cold, their power and performance may be impacted. When worn under a cycling jersey or a winter cycling jacket, a base layer helps wick moisture away from the skin and keeps the wearer comfortable across a range of temperatures.
In autumn and winter, a heavier weight or long-sleeve base layer is generally a safer bet to stay warm. My pick of the winter base layers is in the first half of the guide.
To maximize comfort, base layers should be a tight fit and close to the skin. They work by trapping a layer of air and wicking away sweat to ensure the wearer stays dry. For warm weather or indoor cycling, a lighter-weight base layer with short sleeves (or no sleeves) can help keep you cool. For colder weather, a heavier-weight long-sleeve base layer will retain warmth and wick away moisture.
This guide focuses on men's base layers, but we have a separate guide for women's cycling base layers too. You can also head to the how to choose section at the bottom of the guide to read all of my buying advice. I have put in many miles on the bike in all of these base layers myself and tested them all thoroughly so you can be sure you are getting an honest opinion and selection.
Recent updates
This guide was last updated in August 2024. We checked all the products were still current, removed two that had ceased production and added links to reviews of two newer ones. We've also subbed in a new Rapha summer merino base layer. We've switched the focus from winter to summer base layers, incorporated buying advice from a major manufacturer and anointed a new best overall.
Best cycling base layers: Quick list
The Assos LS Skin layer is incredibly comfortable, well-fitting and warm. I reach for it time and time again during the cold months.
The Van Rysel racing base layer offers fantastic performance for its relatively cheap price and punches well above its weight.
The Merino Xtreme from Thermowave is a winter-weight Merino wool blend option. It's my most versatile option, and will work for cycling, hiking, or relaxing post-ride too.
The Attaquer Summer base layer takes my top summer spot. I've worn it for over 13 hours straight on a ride. It's light, very comfortable, and super breathable.
The Rapha Merino Short Sleeve base layer is 100% merino wool. It's wonderfully soft and comfy and will keep you feeling fresh and dry.
The Endura Translite II is a really soft and breathable summer value option. It will do a great job on the bike and won't break the bank.
Winter base layers
A winter base layer is about retaining heat. It will be thicker than a summer base layer and will usually have long arms to help keep in warmth. It still needs to wick sweat away effectively though to avoid cold, damp spots and keep you comfortable.
Best Overall - Winter
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You really value a warm, comfy winter base layer
✅ You want to treat yourself to a super comfortable premium piece to motivate you for winter
❌ You don't want to spend too much on a base layer
Like a lot of Assos cycling kit, there is something special feeling about the LS skin layer, and it takes my best overall winter spot. Its fit and feel are the best of any of the base layers in the guide. Construction is mostly from a mix of carbon and polypropylene yarns with some elastane, which is meant to draw moisture away from the skin. The material is a little thicker than everything here bar the Spatz and GripGrab offerings, but it's definitely the softest feeling when you're wearing it, is stretchy and does feel like something of a second skin.
The skin layer has a raised neck that is well-shaped and fitted to help keep you warm. Make sure you pay attention and double-check your size against the Assos sizing when buying. I'm a size small in pretty much everything but this test product is an Assos M.
The Winter Skin layer is a high-end base layer that will keep you warm and snug during the winter and on the coldest days. I found it did wick moisture well and kept me really comfy, and I almost looked forward to pulling it on before winter rides. If you want to go for a premium base layer for a lot of outdoor riding, the Skin layer won't let you down.
You can read my in depth Assos LS Skin layer review for even more detail.
Best Value - Winter
2. Van Rysel Racing
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a quality, affordable winter option
✅ You like your base layers to have a nice amount of stretch
❌You ride in really cold temperatures and need something really warm
❌ You can't go wrong at this price, but perhaps more premium brands may appeal to some
I tested a few base layers from Van Rysel this winter, but the Racer base layer stood out as my favourite and recommended piece.
I've gotten on well with Decathlon's (the brand's parent company) own brand base layers for years and had another solid experience with the company's Van Rysel brand. Van Rysel bikes and equipment are already featuring in the WorldTour so the brand is casting off its budget roots to some degree.
The Racer base layer is a medium-weight option but proved to be incredibly comfortable thanks to its high levels of stretch. The feel is actually along the same lines as the GripGrab Expert and the Assos skin layer for a fraction of the cost.
The base layer also has some light ribbing woven into the inside of the piece, to aid warmth and trap air more effectively. If you don't want to spend too much on a good quality, winter base layer you can't go wrong here.
Most Versatile - Winter
3. Thermowave Merino Xtreme long sleeve
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a snug, warm base layer and like the idea of using it for a bit of everything
✅ Are cycling outdoors at lower intensities
❌ Lots of your training or winter riding is more intense
❌ You like to stay as fast and light on the bike as possible using thinner layering, this is a heavier weight piece
I've included the Thermowave Merino Xtreme base layer here on account of its downright warmth and comfort. It's not a true cycling-specific base layer and is popular in climbing and walking circles, but it's a brilliant all-rounder for winter comfort.
It uses a Merino (80%) blend mixed with Polyester and Polyamide and is incredibly soft, comfortable, and warm. If you want a capable, luxury base layer to use on the bike, walking, or even for lounging in post-riden - which is what I've been doing a lot in it - this is going to tick every box for you.
It uses 220 GSM material and a polyester interior lining to ensure there is no 'Merino scratch' when you're wearing it. It isn't a super close fit so is better suited to layering up on less intense rides.
Also Tested - Winter
4. Rapha Pro Team thermal base layer
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You like the idea of an integrated neck warmer and/or snood
✅ You need to stay warm in really cold weather - the Powergrid material used here is very effective
❌ You don't like extra clothing or layers around your neck
❌ You prefer to spend a bit less on winter base layers as it is a pricier option
The Rapha Pro Team base layer is a heavier-weight winter base layer designed to deal with everything winter riding conditions can throw at you. It's also one of the two garments in this guide to utilise Polartec Power Grid fleece.
Perfect for a hard workout in cold conditions when the temperature is comfortably in the single digits. It cuts a stylish figure in the black version I had, and there is also an alternate teal colourway. A nod to the infamous Arenberg forest lettered on the front hints at the hard work riders put in over the winter.
It is constructed from polyester and elastane and uses Polartec Power Grid fleece material on the inside which is designed to trap air and is a fabric it shares with the MAAP base layer in our test. The cuffs on the ends of the sleeves are doubled over to ensure a comfortable fit at the wrists.
I think the lengthy neck of the base layer is the standout design feature allowing you to use it as a warmer right up to the nose on those freezing mornings. Once things warm up you can then roll it down or just fold it over and you have an integrated neck warmer. This pretty much eliminates the need for a Buff. Some of the base layers in the guide have longer necks like Spatz but none offer quite the same length the Pro Team does.
The base layer is soft and comfortable and still pretty lightweight. It kept me warm and snug on some very cold days. Though it is at the more expensive end of the spectrum it will probably pay for itself in the long run if you are doing a lot of winter riding.
5. Spatz Basez Extreme
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You ride in all weathers and want something really heavy duty
✅ You like the idea of just wearing this and perhaps a gilet or jersey to stay light and fast on quicker rides
❌ You don't ride outdoors too much in winter and tend to stay in if the weather is bad
❌ Like a looser-fitting base layer and kit in general - this is a tighter-fitting piece of kit
Spatz built on what it had with the Basez 2 base layer and rolled out the Basez Extreme this winter, which by feel and weight is the most heavy-duty base layer in the guide.
I haven't seen anything like it before if you're looking for a really heavy-duty base layer for a lot of cold, outdoor riding, head this way.
A key difference between the Basez 2 and Basez Extreme is the fit, in that the Extreme is a lot tighter fitting. If you are looking for a more fitted base layer to layer up for racing, harder training or riding, look to the Extreme.
The Basez Extreme has an extended neck and ditches the thumb loops the 2 has. It gains a windproof panel on the chest and adds a lot more of the waffled weave. It's so thick it's into jersey territory and I've even gotten away with wearing it with just a gilet for a cross between warmth and lightweight on the bike.
6. Le Col Pro Mesh
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You do lots of hard winter rides or races
✅ You want a lightweight, long sleeve base layer to wear under a jersey or thin jacket
❌ Warmth is your priority - there are warmer winter options out there
❌ You like a looser fitting base layer, this one is quite compressive
Le Col's Pro Mesh base layer is a versatile long-sleeve base layer. It's woven in one piece and is very stretchy. It looks like it would be too small when held aloft, and visibly looked a lot smaller than any of the other base layers here, but don't worry it is true to size and will stretch to fit you.
The base layer has large mesh panels on most of the back and from the chest down on the front to aid cooling and to wick moisture effectively. The Pro Mesh doesn't carry quite the same thermal properties as some of the heavier-weight base layers in this guide, but I have found it a brilliant option for a cold, hard session where you are riding hard and sweating in the middle of winter and don't need the bulk of a thicker, heavier garment.
Alternatively, in the spring and autumn when temperatures are beginning to drop and you are just starting to reach for the long sleeve base layers again, it works well. I've worn it several times under a short-sleeved jersey and not bothered with arm warmers for more intense sessions.
It's tight fit and lack of bulk would also make it an ideal choice for use in racing, for cyclocross for example or a local winter league or early season races whilst temperatures are still low.
7. GripGrab Expert 2 Thermal Seamless
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a luxurious, warm base layer, but don't want to pay top dollar
❌ You don't like a base layer to be too long, this one may need a bit of tucking into your shorts
If you like the sound of the Assos LS skin layer but don't want to pay top dollar, the Expert 2 Thermal from GripGrab is worth a look. It sits at a competitive price point at around half the Assos option but offers a stretchy, compressive fit and has a very soft, luxurious feeling.
GripGrab pretty much specialises in foul weather kit and the second version of the Expert base layer is going to keep you warm and comfortable on winter rides. It's a little longer in length than some other base layers here and you can comfortably tuck it into shorts or tights for added warmth.
It also uses Polygenie fabric treatment which should help keep things that little bit fresher.
8. Maap Thermal Base Layer
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a lightweight, warm base layer - the Power Grid material is excellent
✅ Your want to feel light and fast on the bike
❌ You tend to overheat, this base layer has caught me out a few times by being too warm
❌ You prefer to spend a bit less on your base layers
The MAAP thermal base layer is a stylish long-sleeve winter unit that utilises Polartec Power Grid fabric. The base layer is more of a mid-weight piece but packs a punch in terms of outright warmth.
The Power Grid takes the form of tiny raised squares of fleecy fabric all over the inside of the base layer. Polartec states this technology strengthens warmth and breathability while reducing fabric mass and also aiding wicking. The purple colour I have the base layer in is no longer available but there are five colours to choose from.
The thermal base layer is another deceptively warm unit and I made the mistake of wearing it on a ride where temperatures rose up to around 10 degrees (or 50 degrees Fahrenheit) with a winter jacket and I ended up being far too warm. The Polartec Power Grid material does an excellent job of creating extra warmth.
Again this base layer kept me warm on the coldest days and makes for an excellent winter base layer.
Take a look at our in-depth review of the MAAP Thermal base layer here.
9. GripGrab Windbreaking Thermal base layer
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You do lots of harder winter riding or even racing and want a warmer option for under tighter fitting kit
✅ You like to feel light on the bike and wear a bit less
❌ Tend to wear a hardshell jacket that gets sweaty or similar, bare arms can feel uncomfortable against certain jacket sleeves
Sometimes a heavier weight long sleeve base layer is overkill or doesn't mesh well with certain kit choices; if you want to just wear a jersey and arm warmers for example
If you want or need to be a bit lighter on the bike for a race or training then the Windbreaking thermal short-sleeve base layer from GripGrab is a good option. The front of the torso has a single-panel wind-blocking section that goes under a jersey nicely for added protection without the bulk. I've worn it like this with a jersey and arm warmers which are more comfortable when not on top of a long sleeve base layer. The amount of warmth id added on cold days surprised me. You can then add a gilet into the mix if you want more protection on top.
The rear of the base layer is made from breathable and stretchy material. Like the long-sleeve Expert 2 base layer from the brand, it features Polygenie-treated material.
10. Nalini Melange base layer
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a heavier weight, short sleeve base layer but don't need the wind-blocking panel as seen above
✅ You value a soft, compressive fit - this is a luxurious feeling base layer
❌ If you prefer a standard long sleeve winter base layer or if this is too specific save your cash and spend it elsewhere
The Nalini Melange is another great short-sleeved, winter weight base layer option if you want to wear a little less or even add warmth in summer. It's stretchy and has a premium feel and cut with long sleeves extending down to just above the elbows. I've worn it to add warmth on colder days under a jersey with arm warmers.
It really does feel luxurious and quality, which I think the compressive material contributes too.
You can take the same layering approach as mentioned in the GripGrab piece above, but if you don't want or need the windproof front layer, this is a really great option. The fit is similar to a nice summer jersey, especially with the longer arms and it's paired well with several of my similarly cut short-sleeved jerseys.
Summer base layers
A good summer base layer will wick away heat and sweat quickly, without adding too much bulk, allowing good airflow over the body to help you to stay feeling comfortable.
Best Overall - Summer
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want to buy a light, comfy base layer for summer
✅ You will want to wear it under tighter jerseys
❌ You aren't so keen on the translucent material
❌ You like a short torso - there's a bit of extra length in this one
I've ridden for over 13 hours straight in the Attaquer Summer base layer and it was nothing but comfortable with zero chafing or irritation. I wouldn't hesitate to use it for my longest rides and it takes the best overall spot for summer base layers.
The Summer base layer is a polyester/elastane mesh mix with stretchy wide side panels and hem. It feels really soft and comfortable when you pull it on, and this feeling remains in use. I've reached for it a lot this summer and it's one of the most comfortable base layers I've worn.
Sizing is staggered, I've tested the S/M and it's closer to a lot of other brands' small in my opinion. However, the fabric does have a lot of stretch if you're closer to a medium.
You can read our full review of the Attaquer Summer base layer for more details.
Best Merino - Summer
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want to add a quality merino piece to your cycling wardrobe
✅ You do lots of slightly less performance-focused cycling and want something for a range of temperatures
❌ You are often racing and training and wearing tight aero kit
❌ You prefer minimalist, superlight base layers
Rapha overhauled its base layer offerings this year and a new model in the range is the updated short sleeve merino base layer, a 100% merino wool, short sleeve base layer.
I noticed how soft the Merino base is as soon as I pulled it on, and it's certainly one of the most comfortable layers in the guide. It has a slightly more relaxed cut, which means you can do a lot with it. Wearing it under a jersey or even on its own for gravel or more relaxed riding. The slacker cut of the hem fits a little more like a t-shirt which helps this and I have worn it around the house to relax in. I also got back from over two hours on my gravel bike with it feeling dry and sweat and odour-free.
Although it's a summer weight, you could also wear this piece as part of your winter layering strategy making it even more versatile and useful, and boosting the value for money. At the time of writing it's discounted on the Rapha website, but even at full price it's a good buy and would make a very useful addition to most cycling wardrobes.
It won't fit as well under a tight-fitting or aero cycling jersey due to the fit and less stretchy merino wool. Check out the Nalini Melange or GribGrab Windbreak short-sleeve options in the winter section for a heavier-weight short-sleeve base to wear under a tighter jersey.
You can also read our in-depth review here.
Best Value - Summer
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want to buy a good quality all-rounder at a strong price
✅ Value a comfy base layer; this one is really soft
❌ You like tighter fitting base layers with more compression
❌ Lots of your favourite jerseys have longer, tight sleeves
The Endura Translite II base layer is constructed from a super soft and fine polyester mesh that's partly recycled. It's available in sleeveless and short-sleeved variants. There is also a Windstopper version. I however tested the short sleeve version.
It's also good value for the performance, with a price tag less than half of some of the most expensive options here.
The Translite is amongst the most comfortable base layers in this whole guide. It's super soft and comfortable with flatlock seams and the cut is ever so slightly more relaxed than some of the other more tightly fitting race cut base layers here. This adds a little bit of versatility and you could even wear it as a base layer for a walk or run.
It kept me comfortable and wicked sweat well on the smart trainer and riding outdoors, and for the price is a really solid base layer option.
It's only available in white, has a silver Endura logo on the chest and the label is soft and sewn into the rear of the neck, as you can read in my full Endura Translite II base layer review.
Also Tested - Summer
4. Assos GTO NS DermaSensor
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You value the very minimal seams and want to minimise potential hot weather chafing or irritation
✅ You are invested in the Assos brand already and want to try its summer range-topper
❌ You would rather save your cash for other more pressing purchases and upgrades
❌ You don't wear a base layer much in the summer anyway
The GTO NS Dermasensor is the top-tier summer base layer from Assos and is the most expensive base layer in the test.
Using a mesh construction except for the Assos solid line down the front of the chest, the Dermasensor is super soft and form-fitting. There are zero seams or labels apart from some minimal stitching at the shoulders and it makes for a very comfortable experience and aids layering. The mesh holes themselves are larger than most of the other base layers here and really open up when stretched which aids cooling.
Aesthetics-wise, the greys and black sit nicely against the Gold Assos logo, and whilst aesthetics don't really come into play when covering base layers, it does look classy.
I've worn it on hot climbs in Mallorca and on the cobbles of the Paris-Roubaix Challenge and it's always performed very well. It actually feels medium weight in thickness but acts like a far lighter-feeling base layer.
Needless to say, I've found the Dermasensor incredibly comfortable and soft to wear and it's performed excellently across all test rides. If you want to splash the cash for one, it won't disappoint.
Owners also benefit from a two-year warranty and crash replacement policy from Assos.
5. GripGrab Expert Seamless
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You don't get on so well with Polyester base layers
✅ Want a super soft base layer
❌ You prefer a superlight base layer for summer use
❌ Live somewhere with really hot summers
The GripGrab Expert Seamless base layer, is, you guessed it, a seamless base layer that's seriously soft and comfortable. It's incredibly soft to the touch even handling it, and pulling it on feels great.
The tubular body of the piece is seamless, the only seams to be found are on the arms and GripGrab has chosen polypropylene fabric over polyester which it says is quicker drying and stays fresher. There are also mesh 'vents' under the arms which are there to aid cooling and deal with sweat.
I found my XS/S piece to fit like a regular small, and the base layer has a good amount of stretch. The comfort on offer is up there with the best in the guide and it will suit a wide range of uses.
6. Pas Normal Sleeveless
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You wear lots of tighter, aero or race kit
✅ Like a really minimalistic base layer for summer or racing
❌ You prefer spending the least amount possible on your base layers
❌ You are particularly sensitive to label irritation
The simply named Pas Normal Sleeveless base layer is a stylish and minimalistic base layer constructed mostly of soft Polyester mesh.
It's super light and airy and Pas Normal give it a temperature use rating of 15/30C - 59/86F, so it should wick moisture well and regulate body temperature on really warm days. I've done a lot of riding in this base layer and like its comfort and shorter length. There isn't lots of it to tuck into shorts and it suits tighter, more aero jerseys very well.
It's available in seven colours and has a Pas Normal logo on the front and a large vertical 'Road to Nowhere' lettering down the back. It feels very unobtrusive to wear, almost like a second skin.
There is a newer and slightly more expensive Mechanism base layer from Pas Normal which I have also tested, but I prefer this one. It's more comfortable in my opinion and you can save the extra cash for something else.
Pas Normal also provides a 50% discount crash replacement policy in the event of an off as well.
How to choose
The best cycling base layers can be very specific in their design, but you can cover a wide range of temperatures with just a couple of well-chosen options.
Start with a thin, lightweight option for warmer temperatures and a heavier-weight long-sleeve base layer for cold weather. By playing around with different clothing layering options you will learn what temperature ranges the base layers work best in and get a feel for what you prefer.
As a starting point note the temperature on each ride, what you are wearing and how you feel on the bike this is especially relevant in winter. You will start to create a memory bank and get better at knowing what to wear to be comfortable in a certain temperature range for the riding you are doing. It's surprising how many cyclists struggle with this, you will get to the point where you can look at the temperature and know exactly what to choose to stay comfortable.
What material is best for a cycling base layer?
Different materials play a big part in how a base layer will perform and the environments in which it will excel. These materials are generally split into two groups, man-made synthetic fabrics or natural materials.
Synthetic fabrics are often used for high-performance cycling base layers, suited to warm weather or indoor training, where sweat management and cooling effects are important. The stretch achieves a close fit to maximise wicking abilities to move sweat away from the body during a hard climb or during an intense Zwift session.
Natural materials such as merino wool don't wick or dry as quickly, however, they allow effective thermoregulation across a wide range of temperatures, making them extremely versatile. When wet, natural fabrics like merino still retain their insulating properties which makes them perfect for poor weather climates. Natural materials are also more resistant to unpleasant odours from riding; ideal if you are commuting to and from work or doing multi-day rides away from home.
What do the big brands say?
We asked clothing manufacturer Rapha for some advice on how to choose a base layer, after all, there is a lot of choice out there now.
The brand came back to us and said:
"When choosing a summer base layer, riders need to consider the conditions they’ll be riding in at every point of the day. Merino lightweight base layers are great for cooler starts and they can be really effective at improving the versatility of jerseys - many customers ride these throughout the British Summer."
For very hot days we’d recommend a lightweight sleeveless base layer which will wick sweat away from the body, which evaporates to provide a cooling effect. For multi-day events or ultra-distance races, merino is a great option as it’s incredibly good at managing odour as well as being quick-drying (if you’re lucky enough to get to wash it!).
"Last but not least, think about what colour jersey and bib straps you’re wearing, a base layer can be a great way of hiding bib straps or elevating your overall style on the bike."
How do you wear a cycling base layer
Contrary to what you might see in the pictures, the base layer goes under your bib straps. They are designed to be worn next to the skin, and so work best with as much skin contact as possible.
In order to show how long they are, and any features that may have been covered by the straps, I opted to photograph them worn over the bibs.
How should you wash and care for your base layers?
Caring for base layers is generally pretty easy. The majority of options on the market are marked as a 30-degree synthetic was. This means you can just wash your base layers with your regular cycling kit. Don't forget to close any zippers on jerseys or jackets to protect your kit in the wash.
Some merino wool items have more specific washing instructions to help you look after the material, some require wool-specific detergent to look after the item. Check your labels or ask the manufacturer if you're unsure.
Base layers also deal with a lot of sweat. And over time can get a bit stinky. Companies do make base layer and undergarment refresh products for synthetic products that aim to eliminate odours and boost breathability. Nikwax makes a 'Basewash' product if you are interested.
How should a cycling base layer fit?
The best cycling base layers should have a next-to-skin fit to offer maximum performance and should be the first layer next to your skin. Sitting close to the body will allow moisture to be wicked away effectively, and minimise any bunching which may cause discomfort when worn under other layers.
High-performance race-focussed base layers will feature flat-lock stitching, a wide collar to fit beneath skinsuits, and a pre-shaped cut optimised for an aggressive riding position. For longer or relaxed riding, opt for a casual cut, which relies on the material's stretch to provide a close, comfortable fit on and off the bike.
Which length sleeve is best for a base layer?
Most cycling base layers will come in a selection of sleeve options. Generally, short or sleeveless base layers are used for hot or changeable conditions as they will fit comfortably under a regular jersey and can be paired with the best arm warmers or a gilet if temperatures are changeable.
Long sleeves are the reserve of cold weather when you will be wearing other long sleeve layers all day. Pair with a long-sleeve-insulated jersey or jacket to keep your upper body toasty when the mercury drops.
What features make a cycling base layer better?
Some base layers will offer extra features to excel in specific conditions. Super thin mesh material side panels enhance breathability during max efforts in the hottest temperatures.
To be honest, you can get away with a lot in the summer months, winter is where you will pay if you get things wrong. Top tip, if you're doing a really long ride, carrying a spare base layer can make a lovely change if you stop at a cafe halfway way, change your base layer then and you will instantly feel more comfy.
Wind-proofing, water resistance, a high collar, or even a built-in balaclava hood are all important considerations if you are frequently riding headfirst into winter.
How we tested to find the best cycling base layers
I inspect every base layer in the guide out of the packet for construction and design features, record and log its weight, and photograph myself wearing each one.
I then put in the hard yards testing each one out on the bike. I experiment with different layers and cycling kit over a range of different temperatures and conditions, both in and outdoors (this is more specific to the winter base layers) I also test each base layer long-term to see how it washes and wears. I even rode in one for over 300 kilometres!
If you have any further questions on any of these base layers, feel free to shoot me an email and I'll do my best to answer.
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Tom joined the Cyclingnews team in late 2022 as a tech writer. Despite having a degree in English Literature he has spent his entire working life in the cycling industry in one form or another. He has over 10 years of experience as a qualified mechanic, with the last five years before joining Cyclingnews being spent running an independent workshop. This means he is just as happy tinkering away in the garage as he is out on the road bike, and he isn’t afraid to pull a bike apart or get hands-on with it when testing to really see what it’s made of.
He has ridden and raced bikes from an early age up to a national level on the road and track, and has ridden and competed in most disciplines. He has a keen eye for pro-team tech and enjoys spotting new or interesting components in the wild. During his time at Cyclingnews, Tom has already interviewed some of the sport's biggest names including Mathieu van der Poel, Tadej Pogačar and Alberto Contador. He's also covered various launches from brands such as Pinarello, Ridley, Specialized and more, tackled the Roubaix Challenge sportive aboard his own rim-brake Cannondale SuperSix Evo, tested over 20 aero helmets in the wind tunnel, and has created helpful in-depth buying advice relating to countless categories from torque wrenches to winter clothing.
