The Keela ADS LS Zip Top. Photo: Bob Smith/grough

Price: £24.95
Colour: yellow/grey
Weight: 222g
Material: polyester
Country of manufacture: not stated
Recommended wash: 40C

This top is part of Keela’s range aimed at active pursuits.

The ADS stands for Active Dispersal System, which is designed to wick moisture away from the body and diffuse it over a wider area to allow more rapid evaporation.

I used the top extensively in a range of conditions, both on the hoof and in the saddle and it worked well, providing just the right amount of warmth on cooler days but also remaining comfortable when the temperature rose a little.

The ADS Zip Top is essentially a baselayer that can be used either as part of a layering system or on its own on milder days. The long sleeves keep the chill off in cool conditions, but can be pushed up to provide some air to the arms when the temperature rises.

The fabric is stretchy and hugs the body well, and the weave allows good wicking. The zipped neck also helps provide cooling when undone, but closes to provide protection to the neck when needed. The main body of the sample we tested was bright yellow, useful for visibility when out on the bike, with side panels, shoulders and sleeves in dark grey. More muted versions, in navy blue or black, are also available.

The fabric was comfortable and wicked well. Photo: Bob Smith/grough

The Keela top’s inner material was soft and comfortable, but the garment resisted wear well, with no signs of snagging or pilling during extensive testing. It also offers UV protection of +40.

It dried quickly after use, and also resisted the build-up of odour well after repeated outings, which makes it a good choice for multi-day treks.

All in all, a comfortable baselayer with good wicking, providing versatility in a range of conditions at a competitive price.

Best uses: hillwalking, trekking, cycling, mountain biking, on cool to warm days.

Comfort 42/50
Wicking 16/20
Odour resistance 8/10
Quality 7/10
Value for money 9/10
Total score: 82/100

• The ADS Long Sleeve Zip Top was supplied to grough by Keela