Santini Grido Baselayer review

Santini's Grido short-sleeved baselayer is made from a mix of Polartec Power Wool and Merino wool and packs far more into its modest 'grey T-shirt' appearance than you might think.

While a short-sleeve thermal baselayer might sound illogical, it definitely has its place. For example, anyone who wears arm warmers to start a ride should love it, and perhaps worn under a thin jersey on cooler summer days it will keep chills out.

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With a Merino inner face for comfort and warmth, and stretchy polyamide synthetic on the outside, to help with moisture transfer and durability, this fabric is touted as getting the best of both worlds by combining those benefits of synthetic wicking with natural insulation and feel.

Its long body offers plenty of coverage and the '3D' fabric knit gives it more bulk without adding weight. It certainly made for a superbly comfortable baselayer and the fit, fabric feel and performance were all fantastic.

The cut was body-hugging, which meant moisture transfer was excellent and cold spots were reduced. The neck was spot-on too, not too high and not too low – just right for a crew neck.

It's a very well-made baselayer, and even those who criticised the short sleeves were quickly won over.

Unfortunately, the price tag is hard to overlook. There are plenty of other baselayers out there as comfortable and high-performing at nearly half the price. However, the acid test of any product is how much demand for it the test crew shows, and the Santini was right up there in the scrum.

If you have deep pockets and short sleeves don't put you off, this is an excellent bit of kit for your riding wardrobe. But, if you prefer, Santini also makes a long-sleeve version that's worth a look, too.