All Base Layers

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Base layers are the foundation of every cold-weather riding kit. Worn next to skin under your jacket and pants, they trap heat, wick sweat and stop wind-chill from sapping your core. This range from Oxford, Motodry, Macna and Shark Leathers covers thermal tops, pants and full compression sets for winter and four-season riding. How to choose a motorcycle base layer A base layer works by managing moisture and heat against your skin. The right weave keeps you dry, and dry skin stays warm. Match the fabric and weight to the temperature you ride in and the fit you want under your gear. Type Fabric Best temperature Fit Thermal top and pant Polypropylene 0 to 12 degrees Slim, layered Bamboo compression Bamboo blend 8 to 18 degrees Second-skin Advanced base layer Technical knit 5 to 15 degrees Athletic Expedition layer Brushed thermal Minus 5 to 8 degrees Mid-weight Fabric and fit matter Polypropylene moves moisture fast and dries in minutes, which is why it suits sub-10 degree rides. A close 0 to 5mm next-to-skin fit removes the air gap that lets heat escape, so size for compression rather than comfort slack. Bamboo blends sit around 4 to 8 degrees warmer than a bare cotton tee and resist odour over multi-day trips. Layer it right Run 3 layers in winter: base, mid and shell. The base handles the first 100 percent of moisture transfer, so never wear cotton underneath. Pair a thermal pant with road kevlar pants rated to EN 17092 AA or AAA, and run CE Level 1 or Level 2 armour in the knees and hips over the top. Add balaclavas and neck tubes to seal the 20 percent of heat lost through the neck. CE Level 2 absorbs more impact energy than Level 1, so size your base layer slim enough that armour still sits flush. For full cold-weather kit, read our cold weather riding gear guide. Related: Road Kevlar Pants · Balaclavas & Neck Tubes · Cold Weather Riding Gear · Road Textile Jackets · Summer Gloves Frequently asked questions What fabric is best for a motorcycle base layer? Pol