A breathable and versatile merino base layer for variable conditions and year-round use.
A breathable and versatile merino base layer for variable conditions and year-round use.
Last updated at 12/24/2024 00:45:36
originally posted on rapha.cc
I love my Rapha t-shirt base-layer so I bought one of these, but this is baggier than expected. I'm not quite in shape for Rapha pro-gear, but I've since bought the pro base-layer and that fits snug and tight like I would expect a base-layer to do, since the idea is to wick sweat quickly off your body. The material, also, has quite a bit of stretch, so I would suggest going down one size from your usual if you want a snug fit. With that said, this thing feels great and the extra length in the torso keeps it nicely in place. It's not my go-to for chilly days any more, but I'm glad I have it as a backup or can wear it under a t-shirt when doing things out of the house.
originally posted on rapha.cc
I bought my first merino base layer in 2017 and it was an excellent piece of kit; whether I was cycling, running, trekking, or working in the backcountry, it provided warmth layered or alone. The finish is very comfortable, close cut, and the weight is versatile for different seasons. By 2022 I had more or less worn it out, it's still functional, but one sleeve is scarcely attached.At the turn of the year I treated myself to a new merino base layer and I'm pleased to say that the quality and fit is the same. Here's to another six years (or more)!
originally posted on rapha.cc
This is one of the best pieces of cycling clothing I own. I've used a handful of different synthetic baselayers, none of which do a good job of keeping me warm when the top gets wet, but this one does a superb job of doing just that. I can wear on this and a windproof jacket on top in temps down to 28 ish degrees. I could never do that in a synthetic top. These run extremely big. I normally wear a medium in pretty much every piece of clothing. I'm 6'0", 165lbs, and the small is still a bit looser on me than I would have expected out of a baselayer. I own a small and extra small. The extra small fits like I'd expect a tighter piece of cycling clothing to fit. I considered other "wool" tops, but this is the only one I've found at this price point that is 100% merino ... MoreThis is one of the best pieces of cycling clothing I own. I've used a handful of different synthetic baselayers, none of which do a good job of keeping me warm when the top gets wet, but this one does a superb job of doing just that. I can wear on this and a windproof jacket on top in temps down to 28 ish degrees. I could never do that in a synthetic top. These run extremely big. I normally wear a medium in pretty much every piece of clothing. I'm 6'0", 165lbs, and the small is still a bit looser on me than I would have expected out of a baselayer. I own a small and extra small. The extra small fits like I'd expect a tighter piece of cycling clothing to fit. I considered other "wool" tops, but this is the only one I've found at this price point that is 100% merino wool. I strongly recommend this as an essential part of your cold weather repertoire.
I love my Rapha t-shirt base-layer so I bought one of these, but this is baggier than expected. I'm not quite in shape for Rapha pro-gear, but I've since bought the pro base-layer and that fits snug and tight like I would expect a base-layer to do, since the idea is to wick sweat quickly off your body. The material, also, has quite a bit of stretch, so I would suggest going down one size from your usual if you want a snug fit. With that said, this thing feels great and the extra length in the torso keeps it nicely in place. It's not my go-to for chilly days any more, but I'm glad I have it as a backup or can wear it under a t-shirt when doing things out of the house.
I bought my first merino base layer in 2017 and it was an excellent piece of kit; whether I was cycling, running, trekking, or working in the backcountry, it provided warmth layered or alone. The finish is very comfortable, close cut, and the weight is versatile for different seasons. By 2022 I had more or less worn it out, it's still functional, but one sleeve is scarcely attached.At the turn of the year I treated myself to a new merino base layer and I'm pleased to say that the quality and fit is the same. Here's to another six years (or more)!
This is one of the best pieces of cycling clothing I own. I've used a handful of different synthetic baselayers, none of which do a good job of keeping me warm when the top gets wet, but this one does a superb job of doing just that. I can wear on this and a windproof jacket on top in temps down to 28 ish degrees. I could never do that in a synthetic top. These run extremely big. I normally wear a medium in pretty much every piece of clothing. I'm 6'0", 165lbs, and the small is still a bit looser on me than I would have expected out of a baselayer. I own a small and extra small. The extra small fits like I'd expect a tighter piece of cycling clothing to fit. I considered other "wool" tops, but this is the only one I've found at this price point that is 100% merino ... MoreThis is one of the best pieces of cycling clothing I own. I've used a handful of different synthetic baselayers, none of which do a good job of keeping me warm when the top gets wet, but this one does a superb job of doing just that. I can wear on this and a windproof jacket on top in temps down to 28 ish degrees. I could never do that in a synthetic top. These run extremely big. I normally wear a medium in pretty much every piece of clothing. I'm 6'0", 165lbs, and the small is still a bit looser on me than I would have expected out of a baselayer. I own a small and extra small. The extra small fits like I'd expect a tighter piece of cycling clothing to fit. I considered other "wool" tops, but this is the only one I've found at this price point that is 100% merino wool. I strongly recommend this as an essential part of your cold weather repertoire.
Very soft and comfortable. Great for weather where a full on winter base layer is just too warm. Pairs great with any long sleeve jersey. Note that if you are used to pro team fitment, this garment will feel large. Runs loose. You can size down on this if you want a snug fit like pro team garments. I wear this for any ride that won’t get above 60*F but not colder than 45*F.
Beautiful base layer, relevatively warm for fall cycling. However, crap quality. After a single wash all of them developed holes on the arms, shoulders, or body areas. Expect them to be disposable. I initially thought ah, maybe I got a bad one, or two, or three, nope four with holes.
One of the more comfortable base layers I've worn. Material is oh so smooth and premium and doesn't heat me up too much but it definitely isn't cold. If this wasn't as see through it would make a for an amazing shirt. In fact I'd love if Rapha would release something like this as a shirt because it would be an instant wardrobe filler in different colors.
Overall I like this base layer. Merino wool is my favorite fabric for activewear and travel. The wool on this shirt is very thin, however, and I question its durability. We shall see. The silver lining is that it seems like a good two-season base layer for spring and fall. Maybe even a wicking layer in winter. Very expensive. A good shirt, definitely not a bargain. If it lasts two years I will be happy, but I have my doubts.
I've enjoyed this base layer over the winter. It's a nice weight, and doesn't hold odor. I appreciate the longer back side to keep it tucked in. When real cold 15-25 degrees F, I switch to my SmartWool zip-up base layer - it's nice to have the base layer go up my neck. I've also noticed that after a half-dozen washes that this base layer doesn't seem a soft. That's understandable, but my SmartWool base layers continue to be soft after many more washes. Maybe the Rapha base layer is thinner. This base layer isn't meant for off the bike.
Well I needed a long sleeve base layer and always had great experiences with merino wool hybrids. So I thought let me try a Rapha product. It must be pretty good. Well I'm highly disapointed. This marino base layer is so thin and loose it is not stable on my body. It's so saggy it's only good for being a pajama for my grandmother not even close to anything that would be considered for cycling. Soo sad from a cycling specific clothing store.
I now have four of these. Three in short sleeve, and one in long.While I do really like this product, I can’t give it the highest rating for one reason.My only issue with this base layer is the big tag / logo right at the collar, directly above the chest:-Athletes “dump” heat by opening up the chest and neck area. It feels wrong to block air flow here. Yes, it’s small, but it all adds up!-Second, I feel silly with a label right there looking like a priest. It blocks airflow, yes, but the placement feels forced. Why there?I personally cut out the label from the neck and leave the one sewn into the bottom left (of corse doing so will void warranty etc).Otherwise, this is an outstanding garment. Beautifully soft merino wool and I love the long sleeve version.
