Didn’t everyone have a Helly back in the day? The striped-sleeve T-shirt that, if it wasn’t the original base layer, certainly feels like it ought to have been?
Times have moved on, and the Warm Freeze uses Helly’s signature LIFA technology – developed to ensure the layer next to your skin is dry – in combination with merino wool.
On the inside you can see a sort of honeycomb construction, which in our experience always delivers good moisture management, and in this case is also non-itchy and soft against the skin. The outer layer is merino, adding extra warmth and a more substantial feel.
The half-zip design meant we wore this base layer a lot in place of a jersey underneath a waterproof or softshell jacket on autumn rides. On averagely cold days it provided plenty of warmth, and the zip garage is a nice touch that adds to the jersey-quality feel.
Although it isn’t bike-specific, the active cut allows for a lot of movement and it’s plenty long enough in the arms and body. In the coldest winter weather, its balance between warmth and wicking performance puts it in a class of its own.
We’ve taken to pretty much living in this top, wearing it alone with a gilet for everyday use and just adding extra clothes for riding. With a winning combination of fit, fabric and performance, it’s perfect. Try it now.
