Base layers are the foundation of every cold-weather riding kit. Worn next to skin under your jacket and pants, they trap heat, wick sweat and stop wind-chill from sapping your core. This range from Oxford, Motodry, Macna and Shark Leathers covers thermal tops, pants and full compression sets for winter and four-season riding.
![Shark Leathers - SHARK THERMALS [Top + Bottom] - Shark Leathers](http://sharkleathers.com.au/cdn/shop/files/S210616.jpg?v=1738240403&width=1134)
![Shark Leathers - SHARK THERMALS [Top + Bottom] - Shark Leathers](http://sharkleathers.com.au/cdn/shop/files/S210616_6606f8f0-3c6e-44e5-ac26-04233b389e0c.jpg?v=1738240404&width=1134)
Shark - Bamboo Compression Set
MOTODRY SHIRT POLYPROPYLENE THERMAL
MOTODRY PANT POLYPROPYLENE THERMAL
Oxford Advanced Base Layer Thermal Top - Charcoal
Oxford Advanced Base Layer Thermal Pant - Charcoal
Oxford Advanced Expedition Layer Pant - Black
Oxford ATMOS Core Base Layer Pant
Oxford ATMOS Core Base Layer Top
How to choose a motorcycle base layer
A base layer works by managing moisture and heat against your skin. The right weave keeps you dry, and dry skin stays warm. Match the fabric and weight to the temperature you ride in and the fit you want under your gear.
| Type | Fabric | Best temperature | Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thermal top and pant | Polypropylene | 0 to 12 degrees | Slim, layered |
| Bamboo compression | Bamboo blend | 8 to 18 degrees | Second-skin |
| Advanced base layer | Technical knit | 5 to 15 degrees | Athletic |
| Expedition layer | Brushed thermal | Minus 5 to 8 degrees | Mid-weight |
Fabric and fit matter
Polypropylene moves moisture fast and dries in minutes, which is why it suits sub-10 degree rides. A close 0 to 5mm next-to-skin fit removes the air gap that lets heat escape, so size for compression rather than comfort slack. Bamboo blends sit around 4 to 8 degrees warmer than a bare cotton tee and resist odour over multi-day trips.
Layer it right
Run 3 layers in winter: base, mid and shell. The base handles the first 100 percent of moisture transfer, so never wear cotton underneath. Pair a thermal pant with road kevlar pants rated to EN 17092 AA or AAA, and run CE Level 1 or Level 2 armour in the knees and hips over the top. Add balaclavas and neck tubes to seal the 20 percent of heat lost through the neck. CE Level 2 absorbs more impact energy than Level 1, so size your base layer slim enough that armour still sits flush. For full cold-weather kit, read our cold weather riding gear guide.
Frequently asked questions
What fabric is best for a motorcycle base layer?
Polypropylene wicks moisture fastest and dries in minutes, making it ideal for cold rides below 10 degrees. Bamboo blends suit milder four-season conditions and resist odour on longer trips. The Motodry and Oxford thermals here use polypropylene and technical knits, while the Shark bamboo set targets mild weather.
Should a base layer be tight or loose?
Tight. A base layer needs to sit against your skin with no air gap so it can move sweat away and trap body heat. A compression or second-skin fit also stops the fabric bunching under your jacket and pants. Size down if you are between sizes for a true next-to-skin fit.
Can I wear a base layer in summer?
Yes. Lightweight moisture-wicking layers like the bamboo compression set keep sweat off your skin in warmer conditions, which helps you stay dry and cool under a mesh or textile jacket. For deep winter riding choose a thermal or expedition-weight layer instead.