Hincapie PowerCore Merino LS Baselayer

As I packed up the car and filled my Camelback, my wife looks at me and says "You're wearing just THAT to go riding?!". The mercury read 37F as I loaded up, so I figured if this Hincapie gear could keep me somewhat warm on a cold day like this, it would perform amazing on a crisp fall day!

Hincapie has a strong reputation in the road cycling & triathlon industry for manufacturing high end bibs, tights, jerseys, etc. and their XC gear isn't any different. At first glance all the gear looked solid and well made, but we all know the real test happens on the trails. For me, the true sign of great cold weather gear is that you stay warm without effecting performance and mobility.

Powercore Merino LS Baselayer Features:


• Super-fine ADV™ Merino Wool is itch free and naturally antimicrobial.
• Every fiber contains thousands of tiny little pockets that trap air to insulate against the elements.
• Naturally porous Merino wool fibers give off a small amount of heat as they absorb and transport moisture away from the skin, preventing chill.

• Wool and polypropylene fiber blend increases dry time to improve comfort, recovery, strength, and durability.

• Fiber’s unique chemistry and bacteria resistance naturally suppresses odors caused by human sweat.

• Ergonomically fitted body and gusseted side panels provide a contoured, conforming fit.

• Elongated body, comfort fit cuffs and smooth flat-lock seaming ideal for layering.
• MSRP $80

It's obvious that the Powercore Baselayer is made for cycling, cut to fit perfectly and never felt like I was stretching it out when reaching for the bars. With the extended back seam, I could keep it tucked in without it riding up on me keeping out those pesky unwanted drafts. And as with most Merino baselayers, it's super soft, wicks away moisture and isn't one bit bulky.

As will all high end Merino wool products, you'll pay top dollar. But in my opinion, they are worth their weight in gold!

I was honestly VERY surprised how warm and comfortable I stayed throughout the ride. I would go as far as saying that on a reg fall day, if you layered the Merino baselayer with the Arenberg Jacket you'd probably be TOO warm. But with some proper gear like the Hincapie lineup, many of us in the Northeast could extend our riding season at least another month!