Full specification As published

Material92% Polyester / 8% Elastane

Weight145 g (size M)

UPF RatingUPF 30+

Fit TypeCompression athletic fit

Care InstructionsMachine wash cold, tumble dry low

Mass145 g as published

CoversComfort layer — no impact zones

Bench rank81 of 200 on this site

Base Layer · Rank 81 of 200

Klim Cool Dry Base Layer Top

by Klim

A lightweight, moisture-wicking base layer built for long, hot days in the saddle, aimed at adventure and touring riders who need a cool, chafe-free layer under armor and jackets.

4.4 Rider rating 4.4 out of 5 Bench score 42/100

Wicks sweat efficiently
Flatlock seams prevent chafing
UPF 30+ sun protection

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Specs taken from the manufacturer No paid placement Bought at retail

Verdict

The Klim Cool Dry Base Layer Top delivers on its purpose as a moisture-management layer for hot-weather riding, with flatlock seams and a mapped fit that disappear under armor and jackets. It offers little warmth on its own and costs more than generic alternatives, but for touring riders battling heat it is a smart first layer.

The Klim Cool Dry Base Layer Top is built for riders who spend long hours in the saddle in warm climates, whether on the highway or picking through technical trail sections. At 145 g in a size medium, the 92% polyester, 8% elastane knit sits light against the skin and layers under a jacket, armored suit or riding pants without adding bulk. A UPF 30+ rating gives some protection from sun exposure on long days, and the fabric is built to wick moisture and dry quickly rather than holding sweat against the body. Flatlock seams run through the construction to remove the raised stitching that can otherwise rub under armor or a snug-fitting jacket.

Klim shapes the top with mapped panels that follow the torso and shoulders, reducing bunching through the repetitive motion of shifting, braking and working the bars over hours on the bike. The extended tail hem stays tucked in rather than riding up under a jacket, and the stretch fabric allows a full range of motion when reaching forward into a riding position. An antimicrobial treatment cuts down on odor buildup, which matters on multi-day trips where laundry access is limited, though this effect fades with repeated washing over the life of the garment. Riders layering armor over the top notice less friction at the shoulders and back where padding usually presses hardest.

This top is aimed squarely at adventure touring, dual-sport and warm-weather riders who need a cool first layer under protective gear, not at anyone looking for standalone warmth. Sizing runs a touch small, so most riders are better off ordering one size up from their usual fit. On a cold morning it offers little insulation by itself, so cold-weather riders need a heavier layer underneath a jacket rather than relying on this top alone. It costs more than a generic athletic base layer, and that premium is worth paying only if the motorcycle-specific fit, mapped panels and UPF rating actually get used on real rides. Riders who mostly ride short, mild-weather commutes may not notice enough benefit to justify the extra cost over a cheaper gym top.

What works

Keeps skin dry through long, hot days on the bike
Packs down small enough for touring luggage
Comfortable against the skin under armored jackets
Cuts down on odor buildup over multi-day trips away from a washer
Flatlock seams stay comfortable under tight gear

What doesn't

Runs a little small, so sizing up is worth considering
Not warm enough on its own once temperatures drop
Priced noticeably above generic, non-riding base layers
Antimicrobial effect fades after repeated washing

Bench scorecard

Protection16Weather27Airflow45Comfort61Value60

Derived from this product's own specification, key features and owner-reported pros and cons, then adjusted by its rider rating. Same rules for every piece.

Key features