Buyer's Guide to Base Layers
Base layer (Paul Smith)
The first step to successful winter dressing is choosing the right base layer. These garments perform two important tasks: they sit close to the skin, transporting moisture away from the body to prevent chilling and they are also designed to trap air to help keep you warm.
An ideal base layer should sit unnoticed under your winter mid-layer and work in conjunction with the rest of your layering system. A lightweight base layer is an extremely versatile garment and should be standard wear in any cyclist's wardrobe. If you're an active, sweaty rider go for a base layer with good moisture management. If you like to ride at a more sedate pace, then warmth and the thicker insulating base layers are more suitable. Of course the best solution is to find a compromise between the two.
Sleeves
Short sleeves are more versatile and you can add arm warmers if extra warmth is need. If you get cold easily then go for long sleeves for more warmth. Long sleeves should go all the way to the wrist and should be a tight fit to prevent them rolling, bunching, or billowing. Always check for Raglan sleeves. Raglan sleeves reach all the way to the neckline, covering the shoulder. The seam sits under the arm and to the side of the chest and back. This is much better than a single seam located on top of the shoulder where it can be restrictive and rub against the skin. Raglan sleeves also give a better fit and a greater degree of freedom.
Moisture Management
It's important to move moisture quickly away from the skin to stay warm and comfortable. If you sweat heavily or are a high-activity cyclist go for a high-moisture movement fabric over an insulating one, and add to your mid-layers to provide extra warmth when required.
Stretch
Most fabrics are woven so they have a four-way stretch. This allows them to hug the body's natural shape for the best performance.
Odours
Base layers do get smelly, so any material that delays the build-up of bacteria is a bonus. Merino wool naturally resists odours and many man-made fabrics are specially treated to prevent smells. Most base layers are machine washable at 40°C and some even higher. Take note of the drying instructions because some can't be tumble dried.
Neck
High necks are ideal when it's really cold but can get hot when it's not. A good compromise is a soft, snug-fitting crew neck that will sit against the neck of the mid-layer. Thicker, thermal base layers may feature a zip but they also adds bulk.
Warmth
Base Layers provide warmth by trapping air next to the skin. This effect is due to the weave, the fabric fibres or a mixture of both. The colder the conditions, the thicker the base layer, it's as simple as that.
Seams
The less the better and any present should be flat-stitched for improved comfort and increased strength. Most seams go under the arm and either side of the shoulder to the neck. Some fabrics use contour mapping. By changing the weave of the fabric the structure can map to the body's shape without the need for numerous panels and seams.
Hem
Should be long in the back to keep you covered in the saddle, but should also stay in place.
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