Adventuring on two wheels forces us to be really focussed on our layering. With limited space, covering vast distances each day and facing ever changing weather getting your baselayer choice right will take you the extra mile.
Cycling is a multi-facetted activity. It transports us far and wide, through rain and shine, valleys and mountain peaks. As the day unravels your comfort levels change and need to adapt. Whether you encounter a freak shower, a prolonged downpour a sudden drop in temperature or a chilly cloud inversion, everything is perfect until you start to feel cold and damp as sweat accumulates.
How the environment impacts your ride
In adventure cycling, your comfort is significantly influenced by your environment. Different terrains and altitudes can affect how your body manages temperature. Cycling through valleys can be warm and sheltered, while higher altitudes and open moorlands can expose you to chilling winds and driving rain.
Weather and its unpredictable nature
Weather conditions are unpredictable and can change swiftly. A sunny day can turn into a rainstorm, leaving you soaked, while a cool morning can become uncomfortably hot as the day progresses. Without the right baselayer, you're left dealing with wet, clammy clothing that can make your ride miserable. Stopping to change breaks your flow and is undesirable, what you really need is clothing that adapts.
Intensity of activity and the weight of gear
The intensity of your cycling also affects comfort. As you push yourself up steep alpine passes or descend like Tom Pidcock, your body generates heat and sweat from both the exertion and the heightened stimulation. A baselayer that doesn’t wick this moisture away efficiently, or indeed absence of a baselayer, can leave you feeling cold and damp.
Carrying camping gear whether it’s a small backpack, lightweight bikepacking kit or cycle touring panniers, demands even greater output, generating more heat and accentuating the differential between peak activity and rest. This makes it crucial that your baselayer helps manage this burden effectively.
Seasonal variations and the length of your ride
The season plays a big role in what you wear when cycling. In summer the classic cycling jersey is the go to for many. Light, breathable and well fitted. From the depths of winter we count the days to when we can get out in nothing more than our favourite cycle jersey and a pair of shorts.
But there are 3 other seasons to enjoy, and with the right baselayer enjoy them we will. In winter, you need warmth, wind and moisture management. If you commute you will want something that dries quickly in the server room and doesn't pong. Of course this has added benefits when cycle touring. A short ride might not cause much discomfort, but a multi-day adventure without the right baselayer can lead to chafing, smelly odours, irritation, and decreased performance.
The benefits of a good cycling baselayer
Choosing the right baselayer can greatly improve your cycling experience. It helps regulate your body temperature, wicks away sweat, and dries quickly. This means you stay comfortable, whether you’re climbing a mountain pass or cruising along a flat trail.
Make baselayers part of your cycling gear
Baselayers are not just for hiking and running. As adventure cyclists we face many of the same challenges alongside some unique ones. An essential part of your cycling gear, they manage moisture and keep you comfortable. Here are the main material choices:
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Merino wool: Excellent for colder rides. Merino wool wicks moisture, dries relatively quickly, and is naturally odour-resistant. Perfect for long rides, multi-day rides in cooler climates.
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Synthetic fibres: Often made from polyester or nylon, these are great for high-intensity activities or hot climates. They wick moisture efficiently and dry quickly. Ideal for warm weather, strenuous rides and ease of washing.
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Merino and synthetic blends: Combining the benefits of both, blends offer moisture management and quick drying. They are versatile and can be used in various conditions.
Environmental considerations
We know cycling is good for us and it is good for the environment, so when choosing baselayers it makes sense to consider the environmental impact. Our kit is designed to perform, but we do not believe in performance at the cost of the planet.
We use PFC-free DWR coatings to improve the breathability and water resistance of some garments. We offer both natural and synthetic fibre options across our product lines. Merino wool is a natural, renewable resource. We ensure our wool is sourced responsibly and meets the Responsible Wool Standards. Synthetic fibres can be made from recycled materials such as plastic bottles and fishing nets, reducing their ecological footprint. Sometimes we treat our garments with special treatments like the antimicrobial Polygiene. This saves water by reducing the number of times you need to wash it.
Baselayer solutions for adventure cyclists
There is a deep set culture of riding within the team at Alpkit and Sonder. Whether the daily commute, a week cycle touring the Scottish islands, an epic Silk Road adventure or a gentle tag-along the Danube; our baselayers are proven to meet the needs of adventure cyclists:
- Valli Long Sleeve Jersey: A premium long sleeved thermal cycling jersey, made in Italy. Designed for comfortable cool weather riding year-round. Warm and highly breathable brushed-back fabric with a full length zip with chin guard. Three drop-in rear stash pockets for on the go convenience.
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Aztec merino blend baselayer: Ultra-lightweight, corespun merino long sleeve base layer for high intensity performance. Naturally wicking, odour resistant and fast-drying. Aztec uses certified non-mulesing merino and GRS-certified recycled polyester.
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Vayper Long Sleeve synthetic baselayer: Vayper is designed to be a true next-to-skin base layer, ideal for the demands of summer cycling adventures. The close, athletic cut allows the Vayper to pull sweat away from the skin much more rapidly when you’re working hard and the ultralight fine knit fabric retains less moisture, meaning it dries quicker.
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Kepler Velo: Naturally breathable merino blend cycling jersey for ultimate pedalling comfort. Natural odour resistance means you can wear your Kepler Velo repeatedly without needing a wide quarantine zone for the smell! Perfect for bike tours when clothes washing is but a distant memory!
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Paradiso jersey: Our premium Italian-made cycling jersey made using 100% recycled fabric gives freedom of movement, with a close fit for fast moisture wicking, aerodynamic efficiency and easy layering. At home on Alpine roads, remote gravel tracks and long weekend rides from your front door.
The foundation of your cycling comfort
Choosing the right baselayer is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable adventure cycling experience. It forms the basis of your layering system, working to manage moisture and maintain your body temperature. With the right baselayer, you'll be ready to tackle any trail, in any weather, staying dry and comfortable throughout your journey.