The RH+ Kinox base layer has become one of my favourite go-to products since summer has (intermittently) arrived, as it feels comfortable and shifts moisture really well.
It's mostly polypropylene (78%, if you're taking notes) with the remainder polyamide (nylon) and elastane. Sometimes polypropylene can feel scratchy but not here – this is comfy stuff.
The fabric itself is very stretchy thanks to the elastane, and the mesh construction gives even more stretch so you get a close, form fit without tightness or ridges.
The body is completely seamless while the seams of the raglan shoulders are about as flat as it's possible to be. You'd have to be hypersensitive to feel them, and you certainly won't be troubled by them.
The best thing about the Kinox base layer is the way that it deals with sweat. The weave next to your body does an excellent job of sucking up moisture from your skin and transporting it away, while all those holes allow plenty of air to circulate. Plus, polypropylene doesn't retain water, it dries really fast, so you don't tend to get cold on the descents.
You get strips of solid fabric down the front and back, and similar panels on each of the sides. I don't think this makes any difference to the breathability, although it might help a bit with the fit.
After several weeks of use the only signs of wear are a couple of small fluffy areas inside, I think where the fabric has rubbed against my heart rate monitor strap. Whatever, you can barely see them and they make no difference to the performance.
The Kinox doesn't resist odours like merino, for example, but any smells wash out easily in the machine.
Verdict
Very comfortable base layer that transports moisture well.
road.cc test report
Make and model: RH+ Kinox base layer
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
RH+ say, "Pre-formed anatomic construction
Seamless construction"
Short and sweet, there's not a lot to argue with there.
I'd say this is for performance-orientated riders - anyone who's likely to work up a sweat.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
RH+ call the fabric Firedry and this is what they say about it:
"Characteristics: These fabrics ensure a high degree of breathability, lightness, quick drying and softness to the touch.
"Function: They keep the body cool and dry while providing comfort even in the most intense heat."
I'd agree with all of that.
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Rate the product for performance:
8/10
Rate the product for durability:
7/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
8/10
Rate the product for value:
7/10
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
It has quickly become one of my favourite summer base layers.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
The fact that it shifts sweat well and dries fast.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
It's only available in white.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.
Would you consider buying the product? Yes, certainly.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes.
Age: 41 Height: 190cm Weight: 75kg
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I've been riding for: Over 20 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: time trialling, commuting, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding,
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