Part of Castelli’s premium Rosso Corsa range, the Castelli Prosecco Tech W Long Sleeve is a synthetic baselayer.
It's designed with cool and mild conditions in mind, incorporating PrimaLoft technology.
Despite being thin, it does a good job of keeping you warm and is a low-maintenance option.
However, those pluses come at a high price, and there are certainly cheaper options out there.
Castelli Prosecco Tech W Long Sleeve details and specifications
Recommended for use in temperatures between 6℃ and 15℃, the Castelli Prosecco Tech W Long Sleeve features two synthetic fabric types.
The main body is constructed using a rib knit, stretching across the front of the torso, shoulders and sleeves. A thinner, more transparent PrimaLoft fabric covers the back in a racerback shape, down to the hem and around the hips.
Castelli notes this is where bib tight straps will sit on top, so this panel is used to reduce uneven layering thickness across these areas.
Castelli Prosecco Tech W Long Sleeve performance
The Castelli Prosecco Tech baselayer was tested in milder conditions, as it was designed for, close to the upper end of the recommended temperature range at around 12℃. It was layered under a long-sleeve jersey and rain jacket, though this was periodically removed on the climbs when it had stopped raining.
Because it’s so thin, the soft Prosecco Tech Long Sleeve fitted well under other layers, with enough length to tuck in, yet without adding bulk, thanks to the overlock hem.
The baselayer wasn’t visible under other layers, as Castelli intended, thanks to the lower neckline, which fitted more like a scoop than a crew.
The cut was a little looser than some baselayers, rather than skin-tight, but once layered under a jersey and cycling jacket, this wasn’t particularly noticeable.
I was a little concerned about how sheer the construction was before I put it on, but the thicker ribbed section gave plentiful coverage, so I didn’t need to worry about feeling exposed if I unzipped my jersey to aid breathability.
Despite the Castelli Prosecco Tech baselayer offering generous warmth on my mid- to high-intensity rides, I was impressed to find the baselayer was almost totally dry when I got home.
The impressive sweat-wicking capability of the layer is undoubtedly down to the thinner, mesh-like back panel, where PrimaLoft fibre technology has been used.
Castelli claims this also makes the material both easy to look after and quick-drying, which I can confirm to be true after a quick laundry cycle.
How does the Castelli Prosecco Tech W Long Sleeve compare to other baselayers?
At £75 / $99.99 / €69.95 / AU$129, there’s no doubting that the Castelli Prosecco Tech is among the pricier options out there, including the Santini Grido.
It’s also proven that you can enjoy a premium baselayer without using merino, unlike the Specialized Merino, quickening drying times and of being vegan-friendly.
Castelli Prosecco Tech W Long Sleeve bottom line
The Castelli Prosecco Tech W Long Sleeve baselayer punches above its weight for warmth and sweat-wicking properties.
It's easy to care for, which adds to its considerable appeal, but it'll cost you.
How we tested
A baselayer is a pretty simple piece of clothing, right? Not quite.
With options made from synthetic or natural fibres, as well as a range of thicknesses, there’s a huge range to choose from.
Here, we've focused on long-sleeve baselayers, which are best suited to riding in cool weather.
In testing, we've assessed fit, warmth, durability and – all importantly – stink factor. Some baselayers get smelly quickly, and worse still, can even hold onto a lingering funk
Baselayers on test
Product
| Brand | castelli |
| Price | 129.00 AUD,70.00 EUR,75.00 GBP,100.00 USD |
| Weight | 133.0000, GRAM (M) - |
Features
| br_gender | womens |
| Features | Material: 100% polyester Primaloft Neckline: Jewel neckline Colours: Black colourway only |
