SIXS Light BT V2 functional underwear for hot days tested
Lightweight baselayers for maximum performance in summer
The SIXS Light BT V2 functional underwear is aimed specifically at riders who want to stay comfortable even at high temperatures. It's meant to cool in the heat while also preventing the body from chilling in the wind or shade - an approach that seems contradictory at first glance. As part of the 1000PS Performance Check, the fine Italian threads were tested under summer conditions in Spain to verify exactly these properties in real-world use.
When the sweat is pooling under your gear
Especially under heavy physical strain or in summer, a familiar problem shows up for many riders: heat builds up under your gear, sweat accumulates, and every movement becomes increasingly exhausting.
At 1000PS we've relied on functional underwear for years in such situations. The universal SIXS 4-Season V2 line has proven itself a reliable companion. But once the thermometer starts climbing toward 30 degrees, a second, airier set can definitely help.
With the brand-new SIXS Light BT V2, the Italians now bring a collection developed specifically for exactly these conditions.
Why SIXS Light BT V2 cools without chilling you
The concept behind SIXS functional underwear seems contradictory at first: how can a material cool while also maintaining a balanced body climate? The answer lies in moisture management and a special material structure.
The so-called Breathable Technology (BT) ensures that sweat is immediately transported away from the skin and can evaporate quickly. This keeps the skin dry, body temperature stable, and prevents overheating. Additionally, the material forms a thin layer of air between the skin and outer clothing that has a temperature-regulating effect. In heat it supports cooling, while in the wind it reduces excessive chilling. Especially in combination with wind while riding, this also weakens the familiar windchill effect.
Main features of Breathable Technology at a glance: - Body temperature regulation: The rapid dissipation of sweat supports natural cooling and keeps the body in the optimal range.
- Prevention of moisture and skin irritation: The skin stays dry, reducing friction and irritation.
- Improved wearing comfort: A fit optimally tailored to the riding position ensures more freedom of movement without bunching. Additionally, more robust fibers are used in heavily stressed areas.
- Reduction of unpleasant odors: Less moisture means less bacterial growth - the SIXS Light BT V2 stays fresh longer.
SIXS Light BT V2 line: Developed for real summer conditions
According to the manufacturer, the Light BT V2 is the lightest and most breathable baselayer collection SIXS has developed so far (40% lighter than the 4-Season line). The clear focus was on motorcycle use at high temperatures. The combination of ultra-lightweight material, high breathability, and targeted ventilation is meant to noticeably relieve the body even under full riding gear.
Particularly interesting is the multi-zone construction, which combines different requirements: where more support is needed, denser material is used. This not only offers additional support while riding but also increases durability - especially if you regularly squeeze into a tight leather suit or protector vest. In areas with high sweat production, on the other hand, the structure becomes more open and breathable.
SIXS BT V2 short-sleeve baselayer (€65.00)
Color: Black Carbon / Black-Dark Grey Sizes: XS/S, M/L (tested), XL/2XL, 3XL/4XL (an online size finder helps with determination)
The BT TS1L V2 is an ultra-lightweight, highly breathable short-sleeve baselayer specifically developed for use in intense heat, high humidity, and heavy sweating. It's aimed primarily at riders and works optimally under leather suits and protective gear, but can also be used in other sports. The goal is to effectively dissipate body heat and keep the skin dry even under heavy strain.
SIXS BT V2 baselayer leggings (€65.00)
Color: Black Carbon / Black-Dark Grey Sizes: XS/S, M/L (tested), XL/2XL, 3XL/4XL (an online size finder helps with determination)
The BT PNXL V2 is a long, technical baselayer pant for motorcycle use, specifically developed for intense heat and heavy sweating. It's designed to efficiently dissipate body heat and keep skin dry even during extended use, while sitting stably under a leather suit and protective gear, with reinforcements in friction zones.
SIXS BT multifunctional neck tube (€23.00)
Color: Black Carbon / Black-Dark Grey Sizes: Unisize
The BT TBXL is a technical multifunctional neck tube for use in high heat and intense strain, developed with a focus on motorcycle use but also suitable for other sports.
Thanks to its multi-zone construction, it offers targeted ventilation, effective moisture management, and a stable fit. The breathable mouth and nose section, flat seams, and slim, stable structure ensure high wearing comfort. As part of the Light BT V2 line, it's also designed to actively dissipate heat rather than store it.
In practice: A noticeable difference during summer riding
Once temperatures rise, it quickly becomes clear whether a baselayer really works - or does more harm than good. The Light BT V2 products are a good example of how consistently heat-focused functional underwear performs in practice. Even under intense strain, moisture is continuously transported outward, creating a dry, unrestricted wearing feel. Nothing sticks, nothing distracts - the focus stays on riding. At the same time, fatigue is noticeably reduced.
The smooth surface, reinforced in the right spots, also pays off in daily use: it makes putting on and taking off easier - whether you're peeling out of a tight leather suit or slipping back into a sweaty jacket after a break.
Unlike the 4-Season line, which is designed as an all-round solution, the Light BT V2 clearly focuses on maximum performance at high temperatures. The lower weight and more open structure let more air through - but in return also reduce the insulating effect.
Optimal care for SIXS underwear: Keeping the function intact
For functional underwear to retain its properties long-term, proper care is essential. 1. The SIXS Light BT V2 should be washed at a maximum of 40°C. Fabric softener should be deliberately avoided, as it can damage the fibers. Tumble dryers and irons also have no place here. 2. Gentle drying in the shade is recommended, ideally laid flat, to preserve the material structure. 3. For optimal care, SIXS offers a special detergent called ResolvWear. This is tailored to technical fibers, works even at low temperatures, and reliably removes odors. Additionally, the typical SIXS scent provides a fresh wearing feel.
Conclusion: SIXS Light BT V2 - The right choice for hot days in the saddle
The new SIXS Light BT V2 collection follows a clear, uncompromising approach: maximum performance in the heat - and you can feel exactly that. When it gets hot and stuffy under your gear, the "Made in Italy" functional underwear plays to its strengths: less sweat, less heat buildup, more lightness. The riding feel becomes freer and more dynamic, while fatigue is noticeably reduced.
Anyone who knows and appreciates the proven SIXS 4-Season baselayer gets the consistent summer answer with the LIGHT BT V2. Thinner, airier, more focused - exactly what you want when the asphalt is shimmering.
Bottom line: the LIGHT BT V2 isn't just a nice-to-have, but a noticeable upgrade for anyone who rides actively even in the heat and doesn't want to compromise.
- Easier to get in and out of leather suits, jeans, or jackets
- Very airy wearing feel, perfect on hot days
- Effective moisture transport even under high strain
- Noticeably less heat buildup under motorcycle gear
- Improved fit and stable hold without excessive compression
- More freedom of movement and a better feel on the bike
- Doesn't smell unpleasant even after several sweaty rides
- The predecessor showed high durability over many years
- Clearly designed for midsummer - limited insulation at cooler temperatures
- Additional layer needed in the clothing system (not a replacement for 4-Season)
- Focus is on function, not eye-catching design
- Not exactly a bargain price-wise