Whether you’re a seasoned baselayer believer, a newbie, or even a skeptic, the Pearl Izumi Transfer Mesh may win you over. After some very vigorous riding both outside and in, I’m a convert.
First, full disclosure: I’m not a baselayer guy. Mostly I just wear a jersey, and layer outward — not inward with base items — as it gets cooler. But after putting the Pearl Izumi Transfer Mesh Short Sleeve Baselayer through its paces over several rides, in varying conditions…I do believe I’ve converted.
To be certain, though, I put it to a bigger test: a 100-mile gravel race where temperatures fluctuated from chilly in the early morning to quite warm by midday. “Gravel” is key here, because as any non-rider knows, more effort over more resistant, slower terrain means more sweat. Under those conditions, the Transfer Mesh proved to be the perfect foundation piece: When it was cool, it provided the slightest layer of warmth under my jersey to keep me comfortable without overheating. And as the temperature climbed, the promised moisture-wicking properties kicked in nicely, keeping me cool and dry even when the pace kicked up and the gravel softened.
What impressed me most was how well it managed moisture. Frankly I’m a big sweater, but the mesh construction breathed exceptionally well, and I never felt that clammy, soaked feeling I’ve felt with some jerseys (or that I hear you get with other, lesser baselayers). It seemed to strike the perfect balance between insulation and ventilation.
I’ve also worn it during several indoor trainer sessions — for me, real sweatfests. Even as I worked up some serious perspiration, the baselayer remained comfortable against my skin. No bunching, no excessive heat buildup—just consistent comfort throughout the workout.
My pain cave is also my garage work bench. No judging!
The fit is excellent: snug without being restrictive, and it stays in place without riding up. The extended tail ensures full coverage in the riding position, and I appreciate that the fabric tags are sewn on the outside to prevent any irritation. Sure, when I first put it on, I thought, “This is pretty tight,” but that’s no different from most any quality piece of cycling kit — and like any quality piece, I then pretty much forgot it was there at all. (Note: not being a seasoned baselayer-wearer, I tested the Transfer both under and over my bibs. My conclusion: under is the way to go, as then it provides the additional benefit of mitigating any possible chafing.)
A final note: I appreciated that Pearl Izumi sends the Transfer in recycled plastic packaging. Branding? Perhaps. But that’s branding with an important benefit.
Whether you’re tackling a gravel century with unpredictable temps, training indoors, or just looking for a versatile baselayer for everyday rides — and even if you’re not typically a baselayer devotee — the Pearl Izumi Transfer Mesh Baselayer is a solid bet.
Find the Pearl Izumi Transfer Mesh Baselayer at www.pearlizumi.com. Price at this writing: $52.50 (25% off).
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