Sherpa Rinchen short sleeve base layer review

A good quality base layer is a great start to keeping warm and comfortable when on the move. That’s true of most outdoor sports, not just cycling. So although the Sherpa Rinchen short sleeve base layer is billed as 'adventure gear' rather than being cycling specific, it nevertheless serves well as a cycling undergarment.

The Sherpa Rinchen short sleeve base layer is made of a soft, thin, synthetic fabric. It has flatlocked seams too, so it’s very comfortable to wear under a cycling jacket. Sherpa has built in underarm panels so that the fit is good, although it’s not quite as tight as many cycling base layers. Nevertheless, it fits well under a cycling jacket or jersey and the tail is long enough to avoid cold spots on the back when riding. There’s nine per cent Spandex in the weave, so there’s plenty of stretch.

An advantage of the more relaxed fit is that the Sherpa Rinchen short sleeve base layer has other uses, not just for cycling. It would be comfortable to wear on its own as a T-shirt in warmer conditions or could be used when running too. It’s also UPF 40 rated, so if you did wear it on its own you shouldn’t get sunburnt too easily.

>>> Winter cycling survival guide

The Sherpa Rinchen short sleeve base layer incorporates silver ions in its fabric. These should help protect against odour build-up and Sherpa says that it is incorporated into the weave and will not wash out. In practice, I did find that the Sherpa Rinchin short sleeve base layer got a bit whiffy after a ride, although definitely less so that some other base layers that I’ve tested.

>>> Base layer buyer's guide

The Sherpa Rinchen short sleeve base layer is also very resistant to dampness from sweat, wicking perspiration away effectively and remaining comfortable even under less breathable outer layers. It washes up well and dries quickly too.