Megmeister Drynamo winter cycle long sleeve base layer review
An excellent base layer which kept me warm in deep winter conditions - though the price tag represents the performance
- (opens in new tab)
- (opens in new tab)
- (opens in new tab)
- Sign up to our newsletter Newsletter

A superb base layer which offers ample breathability and is warm without bulk. It would be understandable if the price tag was a deterrent, however you are paying for a quality construction.
-
+
Stretchy fit
-
+
Warm and breathable
-
+
Wicks sweat well
-
-
Pricey
Why you can trust Cycling Weekly Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Megmeister is not a brand I was aware of before this base layer arrived at Cycling Weekly HQ. 'Meister' comes from the German word for 'master' or 'craftsman', and since the marque has a tunnel vision focus on base layers alone - each one specifically formulated for one sport - then it follows that it considers itself the base layer master.
The jewel on Megmeister's crown is its 'Drynamo' technology. This method of construction weaves yarn in a way which promises the best in wicking capabilities, at a very low weight.
>>> Megmesiter short sleeve base layer reviewed
This sport specific version has been created for cycling, of course. Body mapping - with extra breathability at the back and tons of venting under the arms - aims to optimise airflow. The lower back is kept long, to ensure it doesn't rise up when over the handlebars.
Megmesister's seamless cycling base layer includes a 12 per cent Elastane content and offers four-way stretch which is unmissable when pulling this garment on. The material snaps to fit close against the skin perfectly, but feels as though it could encompass two of me if required (no, I've not tested this).
This fabric does feel notably different when compared with a standard base layer; I found it more comfortable than most - although the aesthetic did remind me of the kind of get-up I remember from teenage visits to Camden Town's Cyberdog store.
>>> Best base layers for cycling
The goal of this material is to wick sweat and repel water, keeping the skin dry - with air pockets working to manage airflow. The Drynamo material has an antibacterial treatment deigned to keep whiffs at bay, too.
Heading out on cold winter mornings, I tried pairing this base layer with arm warmers and a Castelli Gabba on one occasion, opting for a winter jacket as the over-layer on most rides.
Where some deep winter base layers can swaddle you up, resulting in a feeling of claustrophobia, this garment breathed well and still kept me warm, even during high intensity rides where I was riding three to five minute intervals.
Upon return, the base layer generally felt quite damp, but didn't feel wet against the skin when I paused on the ride.
Costing £54.95, this base layer is a considered purchase, however you are playing for a quality construction. After several washes, it still looks and feels like new - and I'd expect Megmesister's offering to pass the test of time.
Thank you for reading 10 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription
Join now for unlimited access
Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
Michelle Arthurs-Brennan is a traditional journalist by trade, having begun her career working for a local newspaper, where highlights included interviewing a very irate Freddie Star (and an even more irate theatre owner), as well as 'the one about the stolen chickens'.
Previous to joining the Cycling Weekly team, Michelle was Editor at Total Women's Cycling. She joined CW as an 'SEO Analyst', but couldn't keep her nose out of journalism and in the spreadsheets, eventually taking on the role of Tech Editor before her latest appointment as Digital Editor.
Michelle is a road racer who also enjoys track riding and the occasional time trial, though dabbles in off-road riding too (either on a mountain bike, or a 'gravel bike'). She is passionate about supporting grassroots women's racing and founded the women's road race team 1904rt.
Michelle is on maternity leave from July 8 2022, until April 2023.
-
Team bosses underwhelmed by 'symbolic' UCI rider development fee plan
The new rule will see development teams earn €2,000 a season once a rider signs to the WorldTour
By Tom Davidson • Published
-
First ever sale at premium kids' bike brand Islabikes
Parents wanting to get their kids a new bike can get up to 35% off while stocks last
By Vern Pitt • Published
-
No turns, giving up and learning from mistakes: dissecting a curious stage three of the Volta a Catalunya
Why did the chase group give up? What was Primož Roglič playing at?
By Chris Marshall-Bell • Published