Madison Isoler Merino Mens long Sleeve baselayer

The Isoler Merino Mens long sleeve baselayer from Madison offers plenty of versatility for when things turn chilly. With casual looks and fit it's just at home as part of a layering system as it is on its own.

Merino baselayers can be found cheaper than the Isoler's £44.99 price tag but the key fact is that the Madison version here is manufactured from 100% of the wonder wool, rather than a mix. That means you get the full range of benefits from the Isoler: impressive wicking, maintaining warmth when wet and probably the most important, the whiff killing antibacterial properties.

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Once temperatures started to drop into single figures the Isoler really came into its own. I found on evening rides with temps around 8-9°C and a long sleeved jersey above I could still ride pretty hard without building up too much of a sweat. Even on the steepest of climbs, once overwhelmed and becoming damp with perspiration, the Isoler would still keep you comfortable. You didn't get cold even when you've stopped and the material didn't become clingy like some man-made fibres can.

The cut is a decent compromise between performance riding and a more relaxed pace too. This means it's just at home on the commute in civvies as it is under lycra. The fact that it's not skin tight allows you to wear it as a stand-alone top without it screaming "Cyclist!" should you wander into a café. There is plenty of length in the arms for when you're stretched out on the bars and a dropped tail keeps out any draughts.

Against the skin the merino wool is soft and totally itch free, and the flatlocked seams mean you don't get any irritation from those either making the Isoler the perfect choice for those long steady winter rides getting the base miles in. The fact that the merino doesn't suffer from odours due to bacteria means it's also ideal for a week of touring if travelling light.

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In value for money terms I reckon the Isoler is pretty much on the money for a 100% merino wool baselayer especially when you take into account its comfort, fit and performance.

You get a limited lifetime warranty and as long as you follow the washing instructions (and keep it away from the moths) I can't see too many issues. The Isoler looks and feels pretty robust so there are no issues with quality.

As far as options go the Isoler is available in two colours – black and blue – and in a range of five sizes. We also reviewed a zipped version back in January which costs an extra fiver. There is also a women's model available.

Verdict

Highly versatile baselayer just at home racing as it is pootling about.