I’ve not too long ago reviewed among the finest base layers available on the market, and after I do, I generally point out how winter base layers are a difficult prospect. There is not all the time a direct correlation between worth and luxury or heat. You may be simply as heat in an reasonably priced base layer as you possibly can in one which prices thrice as a lot.
Enter the Van Rysel (deep breath) Long-Sleeved Cycling Base Layer Racer 2. I’ve no concept who got here up with this identify however I’ll consult with it because the Racer 2 from right here on. It’s an incredible, affordably priced long-sleeve base layer that punches effectively above its weight.
It’s a skinny, snug quantity that is obtainable in three colors and is priced at £29.99 / €29.00. I’ve been testing it out for a number of months now.
Design and Aesthetics
I’ve been testing the burgundy color possibility (Image credit score: Tom Wieckowski)
There are loads of black base layers or undervests on the market, however this is not one in every of them. You can select between gray, blue and the burgundy you see right here. There is a Van Rysel wordmark on the right-hand facet of the chest and that is it for branding. The burgundy color is barely damaged up by some lighter pink colored dots and completely different materials weaves and micro perforations, it is a handsome piece all instructed, folks will not see it a lot, however it’s all the time good to tug one thing on that you just just like the look of.
The Racer 2 is comprised of Polyamide and Elastane. It’s skinny with loads of stretch which implies it is pretty versatile. It’s additionally true to dimension, my dimension small matches me completely, I’m 176cm tall, for reference.
What’s additionally good to see is that Van Rysel has modified the weave of the bottom layer in locations, similar to incorporating extra versatile elbow sections. They additionally appear to have had an identical concept to Spatz and added some ridges and waffles in locations which I assume are there to try to add a bit extra heat, one thing the Basez Extreme takes to the following stage. At this worth level, this might be a regular base layer, however I feel these inclusions add worth for purchasers.
This is not only a stripe, the weave is completely different down the size of this center part (Image credit score: Tom Wieckowski)
Performance
Performance from this base layer has been superb. The stretch is a powerful level for me, serving to it match properly and really feel very snug when you’re carrying it. The reduce can also be wonderful, the arms and torso are simply the appropriate size, and it hasn’t brought about me a single consolation challenge in use.
It’s not as thick and heat as some deep winter choices just like the Pas Normal Studios Thermal Long Sleeve base layer. But nothing is stopping you from carrying it on the coldest days with extra layers on prime. Into hotter climate because of its skinny development it’s going to pair properly with a variety of lengthy or short-sleeve jerseys and arm heaters and usually lighter equipment picks.
Before I had first washed it, it sat barely damp, with different moist garments in our washing basket and the burgundy color seeped onto the white t-shirt it was on prime of and stained it barely, I’d suggest washing it first earlier than utilizing it to keep away from any color operating. Decathlon recommends washing inside out and on a 30-degree artificial cycle.
There’s a waffle-like weave on the physique of the bottom layer (Image credit score: Tom Wieckowski)
Value
This base layer represents stable worth for cash, it matches and performs in addition to costlier base layers. If you’d relatively save your money for summer season bike upgrades, decide up one in every of these.
Just be sure to wash it earlier than you put on it to keep away from colors operating onto your Other Half’s white t-shirt, like my take a look at piece did. Aside from that mine remains to be like new.
The weave modifications on the shoulders and elbow, not the smallest seams, however they’re gentle and have not irritated (Image credit score: Tom Wieckowski)
Verdict
This is a well-made and well-priced base layer that you might use for a little bit of every little thing. It will go well with more durable, extra intense use, and if you wish to use it within the chilly, put on a bit extra on prime.
Overall it is one other well-priced and strong-performing little bit of equipment from Van Rysel.
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Testing scorecard and notes
Design and Aesthetics
A pleasant design that simply works, some good vivid color choices too, wash it first
8/10
Value
Very good, as snug and effectively becoming as loads of costlier choices
9/10
Sizing
True to dimension, my dimension small take a look at piece was bang on
9/10
Warmth
Good, is determined by what you put on it with, not as heat outright as extra heavy responsibility layers
