The Art of Not Freezing
Proper layering is essential for staying warm and dry throughout the season. Learn how to combine base, mid, and outer layers for whatever the weather has in store.
Base
Baselayers wick sweat, help regulate temperature, and boost performance.
Choose the right baselayer based on weather and activity level: opt for the Long Sleeve Merino Mesh as it gets colder, or stick with the sleeveless option for intense rides. For the harshest cold, our Deep Winter Base Layer combines heavyweight merino up front with mesh in back for warmth without overheating.
Base Layers
Conditions: DRY, Windy
Temperature: 55ºF
Season: Fall
Layers:
Merino Mesh Sleeveless Base Layer
LUXE Merino Long Sleeve
LUXE Thermal 3/4 Bib Tight
Ultralight Jacket
Managing Moisture
Layering is all about managing moisture — sweat on the inside, precipitation and road-spray on the outside. If layers get soaked, heat retention goes out the window, leading to cold and miserable rides.
That's why we'll say it time and time again — our apparel prioritizes wicking sweat away from the body to keep you warm and dry.
Second Layer
The mid layer is the main source of insulation—jerseys and lightweight layers that trap heat and enhance the base layer’s wicking power.
Pick your mid layer based on temperature, ride intensity, and whether you’ll add an outer shell. Choose the LUXE Merino Long Sleeve or ONE Long Sleeve for mild conditions, and the LUXE Thermal Long Sleeve or Alpha Long Sleeve as winter sets in.
Mid Layers
Conditions: Wet Trails
Temperature: 45ºF (7ºC)
Season: Early Winter
Trail Layers Bundle:
Merino Mesh SS Base Layer
Merino TRAIL Long Sleeve
TRAIL Alpha Vest
ACCESS Pant
Alpha Long Sleeve
The Alpha Long Sleeve is a unique mid layer inspired by high alpine mountaineering and specifically designed to be worn with an outer jacket or vest.
The jersey employs high loft Alpha insulation across the core, with a merino mesh back for effective heat exhaust. Paired with a lightweight jacket or vest, it takes what would otherwise be a shoulder-season kit into deep winter territory.
Third Layer
The outer shell is the first line of defense against rain, wind, and road spray. It's the most technical part of a layering system, balancing breathability and moisture wicking while blocking the elements.
When choosing an outer shell, consider what you’re protecting against and how much insulation you'll need. For dry conditions, a non-waterproof shell lets moisture escape but keeps out wind. For wet rides, reach for a waterproof option like our Alpha Zero or ONE jackets. Bonus: all our shells are PFAS-free, so you can layer up without worry.
Jackets & Vests
Conditions: Clear, Cold
Temperature: 30ºF (7ºC)
Season: Deep Winter
Deep Winter Layers:
Deep Winter Base Layer
AlphaAir Jacket
Zero Bib Tight
Combining Layers
Fewer layers mean better breathability—but skipping one can compromise the complete system.
That’s why we created Alpha Zero and AlphaAir: they blend outer shell and mid-layer insulation, giving you the warmth and protection in a single technical piece of kit. The result? Lighter weight, less bulk, and serious breathability.