DeFeet Un-D-Lite Undervest £27.99

DeFeet’s original base layer was probably one of the most famous pieces of clothing used at the Tour de France (and many other races). For many years it was easy to spot the original Un-D shirt as, once the outer jersey zip was pulled down, it was revealed that the riders had taken a pair of scissors to the logo, so not to conflict with the Teams sponsors. Pro rider endorsement of this kind gave the Un-D base layer iconic status on both sides of the pond.

This year DeFeet have unleashed the next in the evolutionary series. The Un-D-Lite tank is easily distinguished from the original as it comes in a silver grey colour. This also helps it stand out from the masses of white or black base layers that dominate the market.

For anybody that tried on the original Un-D base layer and found themselves between sizes, DeFeet’s new DriLex® material could well provide the perfect solution to the fit question. The material is very stretchy and provides a much closer fit to the skin, so much so that you almost forget that you are wearing it while in use. Upon first trying it on you instantly feel the coolness of the material against the skin. The new fabric also dries amazingly quickly and is almost dry when you take it out of the washing machine. This is a great feature on its own as you can guarantee even with a hand wash it’ll be dry for the next days ride.

Due to the combination of the material and fit the Un-D-Lite offers unparalleled levels of moisture management. Never have I felt hot while riding in it, and there has been no loss of any of the wind protecting benefits given by a good undervest. Nearly £28 may seem a lot for an undervest, particularly as you can pick up the original version for around the £20 mark. For me it is worth the extra £8 as it is lighter, performs better and removes the question on very hot days of whether to use an undershirt or not. The next evolution has been a long time in coming, but it has surpassed the original in every area.

I have canvassed the opinions of a few users I know and everyone comes back with nothing but praise for this undershirt. Like myself the other riders I have spoken to hope that at some point a full sleeve version is made available for the winter months. A good base layer defies logic; it’ll keep you cool under the hot conditions but will also add extra warmth that a jersey alone is unable to provide. It’s difficult to say that “this is the best” as that would really require the user to have worn everything on the market. What I can say is this: it is the best I have ever used and for that it will mean when my originals need replacing (which could be some time) I will choose the new version every time.