Stay warm without overheating: Three Odlo base layers for winter cycling

Anyone who cycles in winter is familiar with the dilemma: you get warm on the climbs, but your body cools down quickly on the descents. The base layer sits directly against the skin and is designed to wick moisture away from the body without adding bulk under your jersey and jacket. Odlo offers the Autumn/Winter 2026 season three seamless knitted versions. They differ primarily in terms of their focus on high-stress conditions, warmth and material. All feature areas with different textures, but are designed to regulate warmth and moisture in different ways.

Our verdict on Odlo’s base layers

​The technical approach lies not only in the seamless construction, but also in the differently knitted thermal and ventilation zones. Blackcomb, Performance Warm and Performance Wool thus focus on three key areas. Whether the differences can be felt under a winter jacket remains to be seen in a test on the bike. Staying warm without overheating: three Odlo base layers for winter rides

Blackcomb: Ventilation for high-intensity sections

As the flagship product in Odlo’s seamless base layer range, the Blackcomb, according to Odlo, combines advanced body-mapping construction with seamless workmanship. This is designed to ensure exceptional comfort, breathability and thermoregulation. Strategically placed ventilation zones help to wick away excess heat and moisture during intense activity, whilst insulating panels provide warmth where it is most needed. The close-fitting design minimises bulk under additional layers and allows for full freedom of movement. Furthermore, according to Odlo, a special technology controls odours and is designed to ensure lasting freshness even on long days outdoors. The collection comprises Crew-neck- and Half-zip tops, a Long-sleeved top with integrated face mask as well as long and 3/4-length trousers.

• Area of application: Rides involving frequent alternation between intense and gentler sections
• Price: 90 euros >> available here

Performance Warm: warmth during steady-state exercise

Performance Warm has been developed for intense activities in cold conditions and is designed to offer a balanced combination of warmth, breathability and moisture management to regulate body temperature and keep athletes dry and comfortable, even as the intensity of their activity increases. Body-mapping ventilation zones provide targeted breathability, whilst the slim, athletic fit and integrated stretch are designed to allow unrestricted freedom of movement and easy layering.

The Performance Warm Base Layers also feature a special technology designed to keep you feeling fresh for longer. The collection comprises a range of crew-neck, half-zip, high-neck and short-sleeved tops, as well as full-length and 3/4-length trousers, offering varying levels of coverage to suit changing temperatures and individual layering requirements.

• Area of application: Sporty rides in cold weather, particularly at a fairly steady pace
• Price: 80 euros >> available here

Seamless Performance Wool: Merino rather than pure synthetic fibres

Seamless Performance Wool combines merino wool with technical fibres for exceptional softness, durability and performance. According to the manufacturer, the blend of 59 per cent merino wool and 41 per cent nylon fibres combines a seamless body-mapping construction with a high-quality, next-to-skin feel, offering versatile warmth and quick-drying performance.

The product range includes a Crew-neck top, a Top with a hood and integrated face mask as well as long and 3/4-length trousers. The hood and face mask fit comfortably under a helmet and provide extra warmth and protection, whilst the 3/4-length trousers leave more space between the base layer, socks and shoes.

• Area of application: Winter trips where comfort is a priority
• Material: 59 per cent merino wool, 41 per cent nylon
• Price: 130 euros >> available here