Le Col Pro Mesh short sleeve base layer review

When I unwrapped the Le Col Pro Mesh short sleeve base layer, I was pretty sure I’d been sent the wrong size. It looked as if it was going to be a good fit for a ten year old. But there’s a ton of stretch in the predominantly polypropylene fabric, so it actually fitted my medium frame just fine, without feeling constraining.

>>> Buy now: Le Col Pro Mesh short sleeved base layer from Wiggle for £55

It’s important for a base layer to fit closely, to ensure skin contact and that sweat is wicked away effectively, rather than sitting on your skin with the damp resulting in cold spots and less efficient cooling. So having a lot of stretch is a good thing. Le Col says that the fabric composition makes the Le Col Pro Mesh short sleeve base layer hydrophobic, so it wicks moisture away from the skin. Even on warmer climbs towards the middle of the day, I didn’t find that I ended up feeling damp.

The Le Col Pro Mesh short sleeve base layer is, like the Endura Fishnet, a base layer with a string vest look, with quite large holes in it through which air can pass. That’s nice on warmer rides, to help keep you a bit cooler. It’s knitted without seams in the body, although there are flatlocked seams at the shoulders and arms.

>>> Buy now: Le Col Pro Mesh short sleeved base layer from Wiggle for £55

The holes are not evenly distributed either, with a closer weave with smaller perforations over the rear of the shoulders and upper back, where you can expect more air circulation as you ride, there's more pressure on your undergarments and the fabric needs to support the garment more. The breast bone is also covered by a non-perforated fabric.

As with other white base layers that I’ve tested, staining with sunscreen can be an issue around the collar and the ends of the sleeves, particularly with the 30C wash recommended. There’s a black option available too, if this bothers you, although by definition your base layer isn’t going to be on show much.

>>> Base layer buyer's guide

At £55, the Le Col Pro Mesh short sleeve base layer is on the premium priced end of the base layer spectrum, with many perfectly serviceable pieces coming in £20 or £25 cheaper. But it’s comfortable and feels durable, so it should see you through many warm days’ riding. There’s a sleeveless version available too, priced at £50 as well as a women’s version.