Specialized have been delving into the world of cycle specific clothing for some time now and overall with great success. Their Merino LS Underwear baselayer is a fine example of this, its warm, comfortably stretchy and worth the higher price.
This long sleeved underlayer arrived at the perfect time, the days were getting chillier and shorter meaning the phrase ‘be bold, start cold’, once again becomes my quietly muttered motto. Specialized’s offering is made from Australian Merino with a Dryarn polypropylene microfiber inner which helps aspire moisture away from the skin and to the surface for evaporation. Whilst I can’t comment on whether Aussie sheep yield better fur for such a garment, I can say it does exactly as it says on the tin. Its all-day comfortable, wicks moisture away very, very well and hasn’t developed any funny smells, despite using it a few times too many without a wash.
The fit is an athletic one meaning its snug but it retains enough stretch to pull the sleeves up should you wish and ensures fitting and removal are as stress free as possible. Although I’ve worn it a load, its barely showing signs of wear apart from a few hooked strands on the arms - to be expected after snagging it on a few bushes here and there.
If like me, you like Specialized’s kit and accessories anyway, you won't be disappointed when you use their baselayer too. At £55 it’s up there with the best of the competition, well £5 more expensive than an Endura Baa Baa for example, but it performs just as well, and is even a little comfier than the competition.
Spesh also do a high neck/rollneck version for men and there is also a women's fit version with a regular neck at the same price.
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