The Women’s Next2Skin Short Sleeved Base Layer from SCOTT Sports is a versatile, effective and functional piece of kit. Consisting of panels of lightweight, wicking mesh fabric, it helps keep you cool in the heat and warm in the cool.

I’ve used this base layer under my MTB jersey and road jerseys, and on cool days and hot. I was pretty surprised at how comfortable and effective it was, particularly in warm weather as wearing a base layer in the heat always seemed counter-intuitive.

This is a skin tight base layer, but I found it didn’t pull or squeeze as the fabric is immensely stretchy and comfortable next to the skin. Different types of mesh are used in different parts of the top to help facilitate its wicking properties. So for example most airy fabric is used on the back and under the arms, where you get the sweatiest.

The fabric is also very thin and lightweight. It’s pretty see-through when you have it on, so it’s not a top you could wear on its own! It’s also only available in white.

I liked the long length of this base layer; I’m 5 foot 8 and it came down over my hips and the longer length at the rear covered my lower back while riding on the drops of my road bike. In terms of sizing, I’d say the SCOTT Next2Skin base layer comes up true to size, as I’m a curvy 12 and the Medium fitted perfectly.

I was also a big fan of the shoulder design; the seams are located at the front rather than on top. This meant I didn’t experience the chafing you can sometimes get with tops, particularly if you wear a rucksack when you ride.

The fabric is also treated with ‘Pure by Heiq’ odor protection, which did seem to do the job. Wicking properties are facilitated by ‘Interpower’ and DRYOxell technology. In practice this meant that this was a surprisingly good top for wearing in hot weather. Normally I’d stay clear of a base layer in the warm but the wicking properties were so effective I actually found I stayed dryer in my jersey than I usually am without one.

VERDICT

A versatile, lightweight piece of performance kit that works well for all disciplines, the SCOTT Next2Skin short sleeved base layer is a great addition for your spring, summer and autumn ride wardrobe.

Price: RRP £39.99
Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
More info: SCOTT Sports

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