Base layers - explained

Which base layer? A buyer's guide.
So often disregarded but an essential aspect of any bikers kit, this provides the "base" for the whole layering system. It's what enables you to keep warm or cool, and above all comfortable. A quality Base Layer should move moisture away from the skin, keeping you dry and ensuring that you don't get a chill. This guide is designed to help you choose which is best for you in today's market.
Natural or synthetic?
The first choice is whether you want a natural or synthetic fabric. Never use cotton as a base layer you'll just end up damp uncomfortable and smelly.
Merino Wool is favored by many as a natural base layer that remains odour free even after days of wear. The wool is from the Merino sheep so is a natural and renewable source of fabric. Merino fibers are particularly fine and woven in such a way as to eliminate the itchy feeling usually associated with wool.
Unlike Synthetics which wick moisture away from the skin, Merino actually has the capacity to absorb up to 3 times its own weight in liquid, locking it away from the skin. For the cold weather there is nothing like wool to keep you warm and dry.
EDZ Merino Wool
Polyester is highly absorbent and is incredibly efficient at wicking moisture away from the skin and allowing it to evaporate quickly. Most do not have a natural anti-odour properties so the majority of manufactures treat their fabric with an antimicrobial chemical treatment.
EDZ Base Layers
Polypropylene repels water and creates a non-porous surface that lets the water sit on it to evaporate.
Knox Dry Inside
Fit
A quality Base Layer is designed to ensure you have complete freedom of movement. You will certainly be wearing your base layers for long periods of time so it is essential that they fit close to the body to be comfortable.
For racing and under one-piece suits a one-piece base suit is ideal.
EDZ one-piece suit
For touring a separate top and bottom is a better combination, with a choice of a long zip necked top (such as the EDZ zip neck shirt), crew neck (such as the EDZ crew neck base layer), or a short T-shirt (such as the EDZ short sleeved t-shirt) with long trousers (such as the EDZ leggings).
Edz at Hideout Leather
Knox Dry inside at Hideout Leather