Review: Torm Cycling B1 Base Layer and Arm Warmers

Torm Cycling is a small Kent based company that produces some very high quality garments using SmartWool technology. Their products adopt a classic look and style, much like (dare I say it) Rapha; yet Torm Cycling has retained the much needed focus on making their products affordable, as well as comfortable and high-performing. As a result their range stands out as a great value, British-made offering, with some stunning pieces of apparel for all seasons.

With Spring upon us, a good base layer and a set of arm-warmers are two vital pieces of kit to add to your arsenal. They will provide you with comfort, warmth and adaptability to the changing seasons and temperatures. Over the last month I have been testing out the B1 Base Layer and Arm Warmers from Torm Cycling, and have been incredibly pleased with the products.

The B1 Base Layer
The B1 Base Layer uses Torm's signature SmartWool technology; a 60:40 mix of merino wool and polyester. The material is designed to offer warmth, whilst also providing great wicking capabilities for moisture management.

The first thing I noticed slipping the B1 out of its packaging was the attention to detail in the design; the contrasting classic colours and strong looking stitching and embroidered logo give a real sense of quality, especially for a base layer that costs less that £30.

Slipping it on, the feeling of quality continues; the thickness is ideal for Autumn/Spring cycling, and the SmartWool material feels soft and subtle to the touch. The cut is anatomical, with a drop rear hem, and a comfortable amount of cling. You could already feel that this product was going to perform well and keep you warm.

Out on the road, the good impressions continued. The B1 was warm, soft, and largely unnoticeable due its flat-locked seams and tailored cut. The thing that you did notice was the ability that the layer had at keeping you feeling dry and temperate in even the most challenging circumstances; sprint to the top of that hill and be in no fear of freezing sweat chilling your body on the descent the other side. The SmartWool fabric then seems to hold many of the qualities of merino wool, but with a reduced price tag.

The value, looks, feel and quality of this product really set it apart from any comparable competition in the base layer market at this time of year.

Torm Arm Warmers
Arm warmers are such a versatile piece of kit; roll them down when you get too hot, roll them up for the descents  slip them on for the cold morning commute, stuff them in your bag for the warm afternoon ride home. I've got quite a few pairs now in my cupboard, and they all get plenty of use.

These classically styled Roubaix lycra warmers from Torm are some of the best that I've tried. They come in two sizes and the Size 1 (S/M) that I have fit me perfectly (I'm normally a medium in most garments); they grip well and are soft to the touch.

Merino arm warmers are good for wearing under jackets for extra warmth, but the choice of Roubaix lycra for these warmers is a wise one I think; it provides better wind cheating capabilities and is slightly water resistant as well. The quality of Torm products is found here too; the seams look strong and the colours haven't faded in the wash. Overall, another great piece of classic kit that will be ideal for the Spring weather that is hopefully here to stay.

Take a look at Torm's jerseys as well if you want some more classic styling and strong performing apparel.
The Torm range is available direct from Torm.cc.