What's the difference between a base layer and a cycling jersey?
A base layer isn't a standard cycling jersey, and vice versa. A base layer is thinner, has no pockets and is purely functional, regulating moisture and temperature while you ride. A cycling jersey has back pockets, an aerodynamic fit and a design optimized for road cycling. Together they form a system you can wear both in winter and in (colder) fall or spring weather.
If you want the best of both worlds, you can choose a merino cycling jersey. This jersey can be worn directly against the skin and falls more or less between the two categories. It's thinner than a winter cycling jersey, but warmer than a synthetic base layer. Especially for rides between 5 and 12 degrees Celsius, a merino jersey is an elegant solution if you'd rather ride with two layers than three.
Why a base layer significantly improves your riding comfort
A base layer is the most underrated piece in your cycling wardrobe. It's the layer that sits directly against your skin and quickly wicks moisture away to the outer layer. When that first layer does its job, your cycling jersey stays drier, you feel less cold after an effort and the risk of skin irritation drops significantly.
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 won't notice the difference in the first mile, but you definitely will on a ride longer than an hour.
Thermal base layers for cold winter rides
A thermal cycling jersey or thermal base layer is designed for rides in lower temperatures, starting below 10 degrees Celsius. The synthetic fibers or merino wool retain heat while still wicking away moisture. Merino wool is special in this respect: it regulates body temperature in both directions, keeping you warm when it's cold and cooling you down when you're working hard and your body temperature rises. Merino is also naturally antibacterial and odor-resistant.
Synthetic base layers made of polyester or nylon with Lycra dry faster and are slightly more affordable. They're a great choice for daily training, where you wash your base layer regularly. For multi-day rides, merino is usually more pleasant against the skin.
How to combine a base layer with your cycling outfit
A base layer is always worn directly against the skin, never over another garment. Over it, you wear a long or short sleeve cycling jersey and, as the outer layer, a windbreaker or cycling jacket in cold or changeable weather. A base layer should never be so thick that it holds heat like a jacket; it's a transport layer, not an insulation layer. So always choose a close-fitting model: a loose base layer works less well.
For women, it's important that the base layer fits well under your women's cycling jersey. Make sure it doesn't show at the neck or sleeves. At Acelera, these tops are specially designed for the female upper body, so they fit neatly under cycling jerseys.
