It can be tempting to forgo the extra fabric of a base layer when the weather heats up. However, base layers serve multiple purposes that are just as valid in summer as in winter.

Designed to help you regulate your body temperature, a base layer wicks sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry.

This also means that should you get hot and sweaty on a climb, you’ll not have the uncomfortable experience of feeling damp fabric against your rapidly cooling skin.

Furthermore, should you be unfortunate enough to take a tumble on your ride, a base layer serves as a second layer, which could save you from road rash.

If you’re warm blooded, rest assured that the fabric is designed to be cooling, and not insulating – there are even a few special designs which are as light as a string vest (really). Here are some of the best base layers for summer riding…