What are you wearing under your jersey?
Not just a useful ice breaker on the weekend club run (try it), but a pertinent question as cyclists face the perennial problem of maintaining a comfortable body temperature whatever the weather.
Through most the year I keep a trusty merino base layer to hand for chilly morning and evening rides, but in the summer it's far too hot to dress like a sheep. On a day like today - late June, 24 degrees - the temptation is to go without a base layer at all, but for an extra level of comfort a lightweight vest might just be worth a look.
Step forward the Craft superlight mesh base layer. Craft's Mesh Superlight collection is designed for the hottest rides, hikes or runs, but worn under a cycling jersey it may just be versatile enough for a range of seasons. The superlight mesh base layer is a sleeveless top weighing just 17g that utilizes, Craft say, "a unique knitting construction with a big-hole mesh outer for fantastic ventilation, while the plain inner material effectively wicks moisture away from the skin."
Tested out on the bike, the base layer lives up to the promise. With flat seams to avoid chaffing and its gossamer-light weight, it's one garment you truly don't notice you're wearing.
You might not notice it, but in the background the base layer is quietly and effectively doing its job: the mesh knit allows for ample ventilation, keeping you cool, and the fabric efficiently wicks moisture from the body without ever feeling heavy or clingy as merino can.
Sizing is on the generous side - I tested medium, which is usually quite close fitting but here left some breathing space. The garment has a decent amount of stretch, so if you like your base layers snug you may consider sizing down; to be safe, check out the Craft sizing chart.
The superlight mesh base layer is available in men's and women's versions with several color options. I like the white version tested, you can wear it under any color jersey - or even on its own, under your bib straps for that special look. Can of domestic beer optional.
The Craft superlight mesh base layer is available from the usual suspects for around $49.99.
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