You might notice that a lot of pros wear high-tech base layers, even on warm days. If you're wondering why, look more closely at Pearl Izumi's Transfer Lite Sleeveless Base Layer. What you'll find is a tight-fitting piece with a unique knit fabric called Minerale. Its individual yarns have 15 times the surface area of ordinary polyester yarn. This means that it can wick sweat more rapidly. And to deliver proper wicking performance in warmer weather, this efficiency of transport is a must.

Understand that the body-hugging fit is important; you want the base layer to act like a second skin, immediately moving moisture to the outer surface of the fabric for rapid evaporation. This keeps you more comfortable by not feeling wet and clammy. It also provides the benefit of not getting chilled as you descend the backside of any long climb.

The name of this fabric isn't just for show. Minerale weaves a secret sauce of bacteria-killing minerals into the Transfer Lite Sleeveless Base Layer, so your cycling clothing won't retain an eau-de-locker-room aroma.

By the way, if you're weighing the choice of whether to go with this Transfer Lite Sleeveless Base Layer or the Transfer Lite Short Sleeve Base Layer, know that the sleeveless design can be more comfortable as a first ply beneath several other upper body pieces, making it as useful in winter as summer. With the sleeveless base layer, you might be more comfortable since you don't have as much bunching at your armpits.

The Pearl Izumi Transfer Lite Sleeveless Base Layer comes in five sizes from Small to XX-Large and is available in White.