Castelli Prosecco R Women’s LS Base Layer

The Castelli Prosecco R Women's LS Base Layer really does help keep you dry. What it lacks in insulation it makes up for in versatility thanks to a pretty unusual design and a great cut. It's rather expensive, though.

• Pros: Good length at rear, versatile with a unique design, helps keep torso dry
• Cons: Doesn't provide as much insulation as some base layers, expensive

Castelli makes it quite clear on its website that the primary function of the top is to handle moisture rather than provide insulation. A few years ago this would have meant instant dismissal but, with so many high-performing jerseys and jackets available now, moisture control probably trumps insulation in desirable properties of a baselayer. However hard I worked, the Prosecco just didn't seem to retain the sweat that I was producing; most of the moisture sat between it and my outer layer.

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While many baselayers immediately feel snug and warm against the skin, the Prosecco didn't. In fact, for the first few wears it felt quite prickly. It was only after about four washes that it began to soften. Once I'd got it to this point I was making use of it on and off the bike – the design is pretty funky and hiding it under a jersey all the time seemed wrong. It's great for running and walking in, too. Once I'd cut the label out there was zero irritation from the seams, so it's a comfortable fit.

The manmade fibres mean that odours do cling rather. It rarely got more than a single use before it was in the washing basket, though to be fair, this is the case with all of my non-merino baselayers.

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The cut definitely gets a thumbs up from me: perfect length in the sleeves, just enough tapering at the waist and a decent length at the rear to provide a little more protection for the lower back. Although there isn't a huge amount of insulation here, it would certainly suit any women who like to use waisted shorts rather than bibs and want to ensure that their baselayer stays tucked in at the rear.

The Prosecco doesn't come cheap, particularly given its 'moderate' insulation. By comparison, £40 could get you a polka dot design dhb merino baselayer. However, if you are a bit of an outdoors addict, like loud kit, appreciate the mentioned fit and have the money to spend, then it may well appeal. You can certainly get warmth, style and versatility for less, though.

Verdict

Decent baselayer that works well on and off the bike, but there are certainly cheaper ones out there