Specialized Merino LS £60

A classic tight-fitting baselayer, this feels like it’s merino but closer inspection reveals it’s made from a combination of wool, polyester and polypropylene. The last is a fibre that’s incredibly good at wicking, and in wear that translates into a top with the immediate warm-feel benefit of wool (which feels much nicer than most synthetics on cold mornings) but one that stays drier next to the skin once you start sweating. It has the added advantage of staying warmer when you stop riding, so that the chills don’t set in. The seamlessknit construction of the body means that, despite having a close cut, it’s very comfortable, and the blend of natural and manmade fibres makes this a versatile baselayer. It cools efficiently when you get hot but stays warm as you cool down, drying faster than 100 per cent merino. www.specialized.com