GROUPTEST LONG-SLEEVE BASELAYERS

A riding wardrobe essential to keep you warm and sweat-free

Worn next to your skin as a foundation for layering kit, baselayers can be made from synthetic or natural fibres, or a blend of both, and are available in both insulated winter form and in lighter designs for the warmer transition seasons. This means there's a huge range to choose from, so here's what to consider before you shell out on your next baselayer.

Firstly, the riding conditions will dictate how warm you need your baselayer to be. Are you riding in the snow or minus figures where every extra insulating fibre is appreciated, or are the conditions milder, where breathability (ie. sweat-wicking) will be more key? Most brands indicate suggested conditions or even a temperature range for their baselayers. The cut of a baselayer is linked to its intended use, too for example, a deep-winter base layer may have a high polo neck or thumb holes in the sleeves to prevent any exposed skin where cuffs and gloves meet. Most are shaped to fit close to the skin, with added stretch for different body shapes, while some have a looser fit.

The materials used will impact on how a baselayer fits, as well as its thermal, moisturewicking and odour-resistance capabilities. You can largely divide baselayers into two camps - with and without merino wool. Merino boasts some excellent properties, including being naturally thermoregulating, quickly absorbing sweat from your skin and staying warm when damp. Its odour-resistance has made it the material of choice for multi-day use. However, when you're exercising at higher intensities merino can become too warm and wet-out with sweat, causing you to chill as the moisture cools. You'll often find merino blended with synthetic materials such as polyester, which can improve fit and durability, and reduce the fabric's drying time.