MÉTIER RACE LAYER

£ 75 Graphene-infused base layer from the innovative bike brand

This British-made base layer from cycling apparel brand Métier promises unrivalled breathability thanks to the unique application of graphene to the fabric. The element is an incredible heat conductor, and the pattern on the garment where the graphene is placed reflects the hotspots on your body where you’ll need heat to dissipate the most, thus cooling or warming your core temperature accordingly. It sounds mightily impressive, but does it work?

From our experience this is no gimmick, as the Race Layer worked its magic perfectly when the thermometer rose during some long and hot test rides. For those not convinced by using base layers in warm weather (including this tester), this is the best one we’ve used by far. It weighs just 56g, and because the fabric is so soft and comfortable against the skin you don’t feel like you’re wearing it. In cooler weather the benefits of the superior heat dissipation are also felt, moving sweat away from your skin so you’re not left with chills later on in your ride.

Compared to other wicking base layers it’s rapidly fast-drying, and it was almost bone dry 30mins after our training rides every time. It’s more roomy than we were expecting and perhaps not as compressive as described, but we appreciated the more relaxed fit. The Race Layer does come with a hefty price tag but it’s well made and should last a long time. Considering it can be used year-round we think it’s a sound investment, and one we now rarely ride without. metiercycling.com

VERDICT A SUPERB BASE LAYER THAT’S PACKED WITH INNOVATIVE TECH