Do You Need a Cycling Base Layer?
What a base layer does under your jersey, when to wear one, and why the Corbah Prime base layer is light enough for every season.
In this post
A base layer is the thin top you wear under your jersey. It's easy to skip, and it's one of the cheapest ways to feel better on the bike.
What it does
A good base layer pulls sweat off your skin. That keeps you warmer on the descents, when a wet jersey would chill you, and cooler on the climbs.
When to wear one
- Cool and cold rides: under a jersey, a vest or a jacket, it's the first layer that keeps you dry.
- Hilly rides: long climbs followed by fast descents are where a damp jersey feels worst.
- Summer: a light enough base layer works year-round.
The Prime base layer
The Prime base layer is simple, light and sublimated. Its 75 GSM fabric is about half the weight of a standard jersey, imported from Italy because their textiles are top notch. The Corbah logo is sublimated, so it won't fade or crack. Men's sizes run XS to 2XL.
Build the rest of the layers
Add a vest when the morning starts cool (see when to wear a cycling vest), and a jacket when it's colder still: the CxM jacket is made for 40 to 65°F. Our guide to what to wear cycling at every temperature puts it all together, and cold weather cycling gear has the kit.
Getting the fit right
A base layer should sit close to your skin, so it can move sweat away. If you're between sizes, or you like a little more room, size up. Our size guide has the full charts. If you get it wrong, keep it: within 15 days of delivery you can order the same item in another size at about 20–60% off.
Get yours
Every piece is made to order for you and delivered in 5–6 weeks. Want your name or club on a jersey? Personalization is free.
