Gore Base Layer Windstopper Lady Shirt

The name of Gore's Base Layer Windstopper Lady Shirt might be a bit of a mouthful, but the garment itself is delectable. It is a winning combination of windproof panels and soft mesh that does a superb job of regulating your temperature by keeping the wind off you while wicking away sweat. It is ever so versatile. I've worn it on its own on mild days, with arm warmers when it's a bit cooler, or underneath a mid layer when it's cold.

Gore's well-proven, breathable Windstopper membrane is sewn over the superbly soft polyester mesh base fabric to give two distinct layers to the windproof panels. There is a slight rustle to the top Windstopper layer but you only notice this when handling it, not when wearing it, and the membrane is stretchy for a comfortable, close fit. 

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The panels are just where you need them when riding a bike: at the front, across the shoulders and tops of the arms, plus two side panels wrap around to protect your kidneys from wind chill. These panels have a slight sheen but are not as shiny as they appear in our photos.

The remainder of the jersey, including underarms, is the open-weave mesh, which feels lovely against the skin and is very effective at removing moisture from your skin, as well as being quick drying. All the seams are flatlock stitched so there's no chafing, which further enhances the comfort of this technical tee.

There is a V-shaped stretchy material insert over the back of the right hip with a transfer of the size label inside, and a decent sized reflective logo on the front for night-time visibility.

The snug, body-hugging fit is exactly what you want in a baselayer to maximise its fabrics' technical properties. Gore clothing comes in three fits – comfort, slim and tight – and this top is a tight fit, as you'd expect. The website description says 'extra-long back' but in fact the back is the same length as the front, though both are adequately long.

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While the V neck is very comfortable, it can leave you with a cold spot below your neck sometimes, in the gap below a buff if you're wearing one. I wonder why Gore chose this rather than a crew neck like the long-sleeved version of this baselayer sports.

However, this is a small niggle about a top-performing piece of clothing. The price tag of £50 isn't out of line with other windproof baselayers, though it can be found cheaper online. It's also available in white.

Verdict

A very useful and comfortable windproof baselayer that works year-round