dhb Lightweight Merino short-sleeved baselayer review

With the arrival – sort of – of warmer conditions, I’ve been casting off the heavy long-sleeved baselayer on some rides and testing dhb’s short-sleeved merino version. dhb makes some good quality, well priced pieces and is sold through Wiggle and Chain Reaction Cycles.

The dhb Lightweight Merino baselayer still has all the benefits of merino, being 64% wool, but the rest of its composition is made up of polyester. The fabric is a lot lighter than most merino at 120 grams per square metre, so the baselayer only weighs 88g. dhb says the polyester component also increases durability and moisture transfer.

Dhb also certifies that the sheep used to produce the merino wool in Australia have not been mulesed – a procedure sometimes used to prevent flies laying eggs in the fleece which is of concern to animal welfare campaigners.

The Lightweight Merino baselayer retains the smooth feel and odour resistance of merino wool though, so it’s comfortable. The fit is very good, with enough stretch to be close without being constrictive. There’s plenty of length to overlap your shorts and it’s cut a little longer in the back.

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Worn under a lighter-weight jersey, there’s enough extra warmth for mild spring rides and the baselayer doesn’t get sweaty if you’re more wrapped up. dhb has flatlocked all the internal seams so that they don’t rub.

The Lightweight Merino baselayer has washed up well and still looks box fresh after a number of wash cycles. There’s no evidence of any pilling either. If you need something warmer, dhb also sells two heavier weights of short-sleeved merino baselayer.

Currently discounted to £18.75, the dhb lightweight merino baselayer is well priced and a good option for riding in intermediate conditions.