After six years of using regular sports base layers under my riding gear, I finally made the switch – and honestly, I should’ve done this a long time ago.

For most of my rides over the years, I’ve relied on Decathlon’s Run Dry T-shirts and base layer pants. They did the job… sort of. They’re made for running and general fitness, not for being squished inside a riding jacket for 10 hours a day. They were always a bit bulky, sleeves would bunch up, and by the end of a long ride, they’d feel sticky and uncomfortable. But I got used to them, thinking “this is just how it is.”

Rynox Vapour Pro base layers are made specifically for motorcycling. I picked up a pair recently – top and bottom – and took them out for a six-day ride. And let me just say: what. a. difference.

From the moment I put them on, they felt like a second skin. Super light, snug fit (in a good way), and no extra fabric flapping around or getting scrunched under my jacket. The airflow design is smart – once you start riding and the wind picks up, the layers dry out your sweat quickly and keep you feeling cool and fresh. I didn’t feel sticky even after hours on the saddle.

The full sleeves are a nice touch too , they add a layer of comfort, help keep the dust and sun off your arms, and actually make it easier to slide into your riding jacket and pants without feeling like you're stuffing a pillow in there.

Why Rynox and not Viaterra?

I actually considered the Viaterra base layers first – they’re cheaper at ₹2000 for the pair. But their sizing starts from Small, and with my lean build, I needed an XS. Rynox offered the right fit for me (₹3000 for the pair), and now that I’ve used them, I don’t regret the extra spend at all. The quality feels premium, the stitching is solid, and after six continuous days of use, there was zero discomfort. No rashes, no bad smell, nothing. Just dry, breathable comfort.

Another unexpected perk? My regular T-shirts don’t end up drenched in sweat anymore. These base layers take the hit, and that’s one less thing to worry about post-ride.

Final thoughts:
If you ride regularly, whether that’s weekend getaways, commutes, or long-distance touring upgrading to proper riding base layers is a game changer. It's a small piece of gear, but it makes a massive difference in comfort. And in hot, sweaty Indian riding conditions, that's saying something.

The Rynox Vapour Pro has definitely earned a permanent place in my riding kit. This is one of those rare upgrades where you instantly feel the difference and wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. Highly recommended. Worth every rupee.