Base Layer Guide

A base layer is the foundation of a cyclist’s wardrobe and key item of clothing for comfort on the bike. Sitting next the skin, it wicks sweat away to help regulate your body temperature, insulating you against the cold on winter rides and keeping you cool in summer.

Rapha has a wide range of base layers with different fabrics and fits for riding in all conditions.

Merino Base Layer

Made with Rapha’s pioneering merino fabric, this base layer is as versatile as it is comfortable. It will keep you cool on scorching hot climbs in summer and warm on freezing descents in winter. Naturally anti-bacterial and odour resistant, the merino base layer fabric is so soft that it’s ideal for wearing off the bike too.

Merino Mesh Base Layer

Another staple for every season, this lightweight layer combines the comfort and performance of merino with the ventilation of a mesh base layer. Made from a second generation merino-blend fabric woven exclusively for Rapha, the Merino Mesh is designed to be worn all year round. Equally effective worn underneath winter clothing as a summer jersey, short sleeved, long sleeved and sleeveless options make it the perfect partner on any ride.

Brevet Base Layer

Our first base layer to feature a fabric with a permanent antibacterial finish, the Brevet Base Layer is designed specifically for the rigours of long-distance riding. Constructed with silver coated ion yarn, the fabric inhibits the growth of bacteria to keep you fresh and odour free, day after day.

Pro Team Base Layer

An exceptionally lightweight layer, the Pro Team Base Layer is made for competition. The main panels are constructed of a highly breathable and quick-drying mesh fabric to rapidly wick sweat away from the body and regulate body temperature. Stretch side panels ensure a streamlined fit and make this base layer the summer choice of our professional riders.

Souplesse Base Layer

Mesh body fabric and stretch side panels combine to make the super lightweight Women's Souplesse Base Layer the choice of the CANYON//SRAM team for training and racing. The stretch panels make or a close fit and maximum efficiency in wicking sweat and regulating body temperature.

Light Support Bra

For longer adventures and warmer days, the Light Support Bra is cut from a soft, high-stretch, sweat-wicking fabric. This seamless cycling bra is designed to give generous coverage whilst providing just the right level of compression and support demanded by cyclists.

Riding tips

For rides with a coffee stop, pack a folded base layer into your jersey pockets. Your sweat cools quickly once you stop riding so a fresh, dry base layer can help keep you warm. In order to adapt in changeable conditions, opt for a short sleeved base layer paired with arm warmers for versatility rather than wearing a long sleeved base layer. For multi-day rides pick a base layer that will stay fresh despite repeated use. The Brevet Base Layer is made of silver coated ion yarn for a permanent antibacterial finish. Wearing a base layer beneath your jersey can keep you cooler even on the hottest of days. Base layer fabrics are more effective at wicking sweat away from the body and regulating temperature.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or a prolific race winner, a base layer can be the difference between a great ride and an uncomfortable ordeal.