At a fraction of the price of other merino wool baselayers on the market we were intrigued to see how the latest offering from Wiggle’s own brand dhb would perform.
The SS14 range from Wiggle’s own brand dhb is impressive. The first thing you notice when looking at the range in its entirety is the direction the brand has taken with regard to style.
Purples, neons and bold prints flood the range. We were impressed. We were also impressed by the substantially bigger offering in the women’s range offering everything from an elite range to a bargain basement entry level range.
I was pleasantly surprised to see that the range also includes merino wool baselayers. At first glance the baselayer was soft to touch and looked well cut.
I opted to test a size UK 10 as I find dhb are usually right on the mark with their sizing. For the first time though, I found this not to be the case. The top sat high on my neck – uncomfortably so and was far too snug on the arms and shoulders which I knew would cause chaffing further down the line on longer spins. My 5’ 9” frame could also have done with a slightly longer cut as I found it rode up a little when I was down on the drops which was fine when wearing bib shorts but not ideal otherwise.
I tested the top on a cool March morning which turned out to be pretty balmy as soon as the sun came up. With regard to regulating my temperature, I have to say the top performed pretty well. It kept me warm and wicked away sweat efficiently when I started to sweat.
VERDICT:
dhb is almost there with this baselayer but it still needs some tweaking to get it just right. If it can make amendments to the cut and keep the price point the same, dhb could be on to a winner.
PROS:
Dhb have used a good quality merino considering the price point. It performed well. And aesthetically they have chosen their colour palette well.
CONS:
The cut needs work. It sits far too highly on the neck and the shoulders and arms are far too restrictive.
Price: £26.99
Stockist: Wiggle
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