Freezing weather has a bad habit of turning up unannounced and leaving you out in the cold.
The first thing you should be reaching for on a cold day is a base layer, and there’s loads of different types available.
Our guide to five of the best have been chosen based on reviews left by customers on the Sportsbikeshop website…
Oxford Warm Dry - Long Sleeved Top
Customer rating:
The Oxford Warm Dry has proved popular among the first 13 reviewers, who have awarded it an average score of 4.9 stars. Customers have praised the top for the warmth it provides, and the overall fit. Customers have also noted the soft feel of the top. One customer was so impressed he bought two, and uses them both on and off the bike.
Oxford Compression Long Sleeve Base Layer Top - Black
Customer rating:
This top has been praised for its tight fit, thanks to the four-way stretch knit fabric, and its ability to keep the rider at the optimum temperature regardless of the external temperature. The top features a seamless and flat-seam construction, so it’s no surprise to see many customers also praising the comfort of the top. Several reviewers wear this top both on and of the bike.
RST Thermal Wind Block Top - Black
Customer rating:
Specifically designed for winter use, it’s no surprise that many Sportsbikeshop customers have credited this RST base layer with keeping them warm on colder rides. One customer even found this base layer so effective they ditched their heated jacket! The top is constructed from four-way stretch fabric, and plenty of reviewers have praised the top for its high level of comfort.
DXR Warmcore Long Sleeve Shirt - Black
Customer rating:
Sportsbikeshop customers highly rate the Warmcore long-sleeved shirt for its high-quality construction, especially considering the sub-£20 price, and gave it an average of 4.8 stars from the first 113 reviews. It uses a moisture-wicking material to keep your skin dry, which will stop sweat from cooling you down on chilly rides. For another £14.99, the matching trousers help create a complete cold-weather ensemble.
Rukka Outlast Shirt
Customer rating:
High-end kit brand Rukka’s base layers are popular with Sportsbikeshop customers, who gave this shirt an average of 4.8 stars from the first 69 reviews, praising its effectiveness in cold weather. The shirt uses Outlast material, which absorbs excess body heat and then gives it back when your skin temperature drops. The matching base layer trousers use the same material, and they’re also highly rated by customers.