Undershirts and Base-Layers

Helly Hansen Verglas Hybrid Top base layer – review

Helly Hansen Verglas Hybrid Top base layer £75

Helly Hansen’s Verglas Hybrid Top base layer is one of the company’s warmest base layers to wear the famous Lifa stripes, and is packed with the company’s latest technology making it brilliant for the increasingly cold mornings regular cyclists are faced with at this time of year.

They divide their base layer range into Cool, Dry and Warm categories based on the temperature range and level of activity you’re planning on. The Verglas Hybrid top mixes materials from both the Dry and Warm range; a Lifa inner layer for keeping you dry and an external layer of Merino wool for insulation.

HH Dry panels are stitched into the arms and around the shoulders, areas that usually get sweaty first, and a ‘Coolgrid’ back panel boosts cool air circulation.

The base layer features one of the tallest necks on a base layer I’ve ever tested, so does away with the need for a neck collar or similar. It can be rolled down if it isn’t needed however, and there’s a generous half length zipper. Extended too are the cuffs, they’re long enough to cover your palms and thumb holes keep them hooked into place. They’re optional if you prefer not to harness them, and can simply be rolled out of the way.

Fit is on the just about right, a little on the snug side perhaps but well shaped so there’s no restrictions. The length of the base layer is longer than usual too, there’s plenty of overlap under your baggies for a little extra warm, and the back is well dropped so it doesn’t ride up.

A zipped chest pocket seems an odd inclusion on a top intended to be used as a base layer, but actually comes in handy if you’re pairing with a jacket that might be lacking in pockets. I found a lightweight windproof jacket over the top has been enough for current conditions. For warmer spring weather it’s the kind of top that could be worn on its own, giving it extra use outside of the deep winter.