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My new TT bike
by Simon Willis
 REVIEWS 17 / 11 / 05
 

TESTED: USE X-Zone base layer

use base layer (11K)

It's that time of year again when you have to think base layers, and the new £30 X-Zone from USE offers a lot of technology for not much money.

Yes, USE is more commonly know for their seatposts and lights, but they've recently launched into the clothing market with this base layer and there's more clothing in the pipeline. It's made from X-Static, a material that uses pure silver for its anti-microbial properties, therefore reducing nasty odours.

To improve cooling in certain areas, different weight material is used. For example on the arms and the central torso section, easily identifiable by the darker shade of colour. There aren't many extra features, but there are some nice details, like the subtle USE logo and heat transfer logos instead of irritating labels.

We first got to try this base layer on the 80mile MAXX Exposure off-road night ride and after nearly 10 hours of non-stop riding we were very impressed with the performance. It's super comfortable, does what it needs to do and looks smart.

Four sizes are available (S, M, L, XL) and just the one colour, Deep Blue.

  • £29.99
  • USE
  • 01798 344477

RCUK VERDICT




Good: Looks good, warm, comfortable, price


Bad: Arms could be a little more windproof if you've just got gillet on top

Overall: There's a lot of choice from well-established clothing manufactures, but this first foray into the world of clothing for USE is backed up with an excellent product that is as good as any other base layer on the market. Price-wise it's very competititve, in fact it's a bargain.



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USE X-Zone baselayer
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