Base layer

A high quality base layer forms the foundation of your cycling outfit, even in warm weather, and the Craft Zero Extreme Windstopper base layer adds superior wind protection for beating the chill.

Swedish company Craft add a Gore Windstopper membrane to the chest panel of this base layer, which adds impressive protection against the wind. With wind protection next to the skin, it frees you up from having to wear a windproof outer layer and gives you a little more versatility.

The RH+ Kinox base layer has become one of my favourite go-to products since summer has (intermittently) arrived, as it feels comfortable and shifts moisture really well.

It's mostly polypropylene (78%, if you're taking notes) with the remainder polyamide (nylon) and elastane. Sometimes polypropylene can feel scratchy but not here – this is comfy stuff.

The fabric itself is very stretchy thanks to the elastane, and the mesh construction gives even more stretch so you get a close, form fit without tightness or ridges.

One thing I have seen the benefit of these last few months is the art of layering. With some truly miserable riding conditions, getting your wardrobe choices right will enhance your ride, and this Craft Active Extreme Concept Piece fits the bill for the chilly weather.

The Rapha Winter Base Layer is a toasty merino offering with a unique design that'll help to keep you cosy.

When it comes to base layers, merino's king. The fine fibres make for a garment that's light, wicking and warm even when wet, without the itchiness associated with other, coarser wool variants. This winter base layer from Rapha takes all of those positives and combines them with a close, form hugging fit to create a base layer perfect for the very coldest of days.

Howies are reknowned for their base layers - and this NBL Half Zip Merino base layer really ticks all the boxes.

Merino base layers produced over the years have gone from strength to strength, with people raving about the quality of performance, the feel and the odour resistance. So it was with much anticipation that I eagerly opened the package when it arrived for test.

The Rapha Women's Long Sleeve Base Layer is a soft, breathable base layer made from merino wool that will prove useful time and time again, both on and off the bike.