Top 5 women’s base layers
Independent reviews • Best prices • Fast and free delivery
A warm, wicking base-layer will add loads of comfort to your cycling ensemble, letting you ride further and for longer.
1. Endura BaaBaa Merino Womens Long Sleeve Cycling Base Layer
Review
The Endura Baa Baa Merino might appear expensive compared to equivalent base layers, but this is because it’s made from merino wool, which has loads of advantages over polyester. It’ll stay warm and lightweight, even when soaked with sweat, which keep comfort levels high on the coldest days.
One of the greatest things about a merino base layer is its odour control properties – it’ll stay pong-free far longer than other cycling garments and you can wash it at a lower temperature.
| Quick Look | |
|---|---|
| Price | £21.49 |
| Fabric | Merino wool |
| Features | Flatock seams, choice of colours |
| Best for | Comfort |
2. Altura Transfer Womens Long Sleeve Base Layer 2013
Review
The Altura Transfer is made from a lightweight microfibre fabric that boasts very high wicking properties. You can work really hard on the bike and it’ll still cope with moving sweat away from your skin.
Seams are flatlock and mesh panels aid breathability, so this is a great base layer for long rides where you want to stay warm and comfortable for hours and not be afraid to break a sweat.
| Quick Look | |
|---|---|
| Price | £23.74 |
| Fabric | 100% polyester |
| Features | Flatock seams, mesh panels |
| Best for | Long rides |
3. Madison Isoler Womens Long Sleeve Baselayer
Top Bargain
Review
Madison’s Isoler has all bases covered when it comes to a warm underlayer for winter days. The M-Tec fabric is super absorbent next to the skin, while a women-specific cut and flatlock seams keep things comfortable.
As an added bonus, the Isoler’s pink-stitched trim is reflective, so if you do get a bit warm and want to strip off a layer or two, it’s also good-looking and practical as an outer surface.
| Quick Look | |
|---|---|
| Price | £15.99 |
| Fabric | Polyester/Lycra blend |
| Features | Flatock seams, reflective trim |
| Best for | Versatility |
4. Dare2B Zonal Womens Long Sleeve T-Shirt
High tech
Review
The distinctive Dare2B Zonal has plenty of techy features to back up its futuristic appearance. Its seamless construction means there’s nothing to chafe your skin and its nylon-elastane blend is fast wicking and has a special odour control treatment to keep it fresh.
Ergonomic Body Map Fit means this base layer should contour to all your curves. The closer a base layer fits, the better it works at removing moisture from the surface of the skin.
| Quick Look | |
|---|---|
| Price | £27.99 |
| Fabric | Nylon/elastane blend |
| Features | Bodymap fit, antibacterial |
| Best for | Odour control |
5. Madison Isoler Merino Womens Zip-neck Baselayer
Invest in the Best
Review
The Isoler Zip Neck has loads of the features of Madison’s standard Isoler base, but it is made from merino wool, making it very light, warm, comfortable and odour controlling. The high collar with a zip means it’s perfect for keeping your neck warm on really chilly winter rides, but you can unzip it a bit if you start to feel too warm.
Despite being wool, it’s machine washable, has reflective details and is very body-hugging, making it versatile for all sorts of rides and temperatures.
| Quick Look | |
|---|---|
| Price | £30.00 |
| Fabric | Merino wool |
| Features | High zip neck, reflective detailing |
| Best for | Warmth |