Most times I train or ride on my bike, outside, I'll always have a base layer on, unless it is really warm - and riding in the UK it isn't very often I ride with just one layer.
In the past I've always gone for a running top under my cycling jersey, thinking that it'll provide sufficient levels of warmth and some sweat wicking capabilities.
I started chatting to a fellow rider and friend once about base layers (as you do) and he had always used merino wool base layers and swore by their comfort, warmth and wicking capabilities. I was fascinated. I didn't own anything merino so did some research before deciding what to buy.
Doing triathlon and having to spend across three sports, generally I tend not to lavish money on top end kit. Personally I can't justify it and I think there are some good compromises to be had in cheaper alternatives. One brand I do like and have a fair bit of kit from is Wiggle's own brand, DHB. In terms of a cost/quality/performance price point they are ideal for what I am prepared to spend on kit.
And so, my first foray into the merino base layer world came courtesy of a DHB long sleeve merino top, from Wiggle. It was their M_200 version, the 200 reference I think is related to the gsm weight of the merino (e.g. 200 gsm). This, according to Wiggle makes it a 'mid-weight' garment. If I'm honest, I didn't really know if this is what I was after, but mid-weight sounded a good place to start. I don't recall exactly how much I paid, but it was less than £40.
Go to the Wiggle site here to see the exact top I'm referring to.
So, what about performance, how does this thing compare to my normal running top base layer approach. Well, the difference is almost night and day. The merino layer is super comfortable against the skin. This particular version feels nice and lightweight when on. But, what really surprised me after a few rides is its seeming ability to regulate temperature when I'm riding. I never seem to overheat, but nor do I seem to get cold. It is a really clever fabric. I've worn it as a layer with just a cycling top over and on colder rides, as a base layer with a cycling top and then winter jacket over that and so far, I've never felt any sweat or dampness build in it despite my feeling warm whilst riding. Interestingly, when I've 'over dressed', which I tend to do often, I almost feel like the merino does a good job again of regulating temperature, almost like its keeping you warm when you want it to and not too warm when you've over done the layers. It really is quite a clever piece of kit.
As with all the reviews I do, there is no science, no graphs or numbers and stats to compare, it's just a review based on feel and how I think it performs. Based on that, this is a piece of kit everyone who cycles should have available in their wardrobe. I am really impressed with it. I'm not saying you have to have this particular model or brand, but the merino base layer in my view is streets ahead of man made versions.
As I said earlier, for me the DHB brand offers a nice price/performance/quality point and so far I have been very pleased with the performance of this base layer. It washes well and so far, as described, seems to hold no odours like some of my man made kit does. Having said that, I'd perhaps like to revisit that statement after a lot more uses.
So, if you haven't yet tried merino wool as a garment, especially as a base-layer, then I'd really recommend it. If you are looking for good price/quality/performance then do look at what Wiggle has to offer via their DHB brand.
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