Base Layer Women

What is the difference between a base layer and a cycling jersey?

A base layer is not a standard cycling jersey, and vice versa. The base layer is thinner, has no pockets, and is purely functional for moisture and temperature regulation while cycling. A cycling jersey has back pockets, an aerodynamic fit, and a design optimized for road cycling. Together, they form a system that can be worn in winter as well as in (colder) autumn or spring weather.

If you want the best of both worlds, you can choose a merino cycling jersey. This shirt can be worn directly on the skin and falls somewhere between the two categories. It is thinner than a winter cycling jersey but warmer than a synthetic base layer. Especially for rides between five and twelve degrees Celsius, a merino shirt is an elegant solution if you prefer to wear two layers instead of three.

Why a base layer significantly improves your riding comfort

A base layer is the most underrated garment in the cycling wardrobe. The base layer is the layer that sits directly on your skin and quickly wicks moisture away to the outer layer. When that first layer works well, your cycling jersey stays drier, you feel less cold after exertion, and the chance of skin irritation is greatly reduced.

For female cyclists who train a lot or ride year-round, a good base layer is just as important as a good pair of cycling shorts. You might not notice the difference in the first kilometer, but definitely during a ride longer than an hour.

Thermal base layers for cold winter rides

A thermal cycling shirt or thermo base layer is designed for rides in lower temperatures, starting at temperatures below ten degrees. The synthetic fibers or merino wool retain heat while still wicking away moisture. Merino wool is special in this regard; it regulates body temperature in both directions, keeping you warm when it's cold and cooling you down when you work hard and your body temperature rises. Additionally, merino is naturally antibacterial and odor-resistant.

Synthetic base layers made of polyester or nylon with lycra dry faster and are slightly cheaper. They are a great choice for daily training, where you wash the base layer regularly. For rides lasting several days in a row, merino is generally more comfortable on the skin.

How do you combine a base layer with your cycling outfit?

The base layer always sits directly on the skin, never over another piece of clothing. Over it, you then wear a long or short sleeve cycling jersey and as the outer layer a windstopper or cycling jacket in cold or changeable weather. The base layer should never be so thick that it retains heat like a jacket; it is a transport layer, not an insulation layer. Therefore, always choose a model that fits snugly: a loose base layer works less well.

For women, it is important that the base layer fits well under the fit of your women's cycling jersey. Make sure it does not stick out at the collar or sleeves. With Acelera these shirts are specially designed for the female upper body, so they fit neatly under cycling jerseys.