The way Merino can stay bearably fresh even after several rides reduces washing frequency and makes them great for multi-day adventures and/or rides that end with an extended social session. The mixed fabric can be machine washed at low temperature too so it’s not as needy as some blends we’ve used on laundry days. The double shoulder helps the shirts stay in shape and extends lifespan if you’re wearing a back pack. Skin feel is excellent with none of the itch some sheep derived shirts can create and it wicks fast enough and retains warmth well enough to use as a base layer too, though pure synthetics will still disperse moisture faster.

The Performance Merino Off Road Wool mix still retains a lot of the warm when wet and stink fighting performance of pure Merino, but it dries noticeably quicker if you get damp from rain or sweat.

While there are a vast range of Merino or Merino mix T-shirt options from bike brands or just general outdoor brands, the clever cut of the Rapha tops makes them noticeably better fitted on the bike without looking weird off it.

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