BQ Tests: Ground Effect Baked Alaska

If you’ve ever turned up to a group ride, trailhead or bike tour and spotted a few riders already kitted out in Ground Effect gear — you’re not imagining it. The New Zealand-based company has built a loyal following over 30+ years, and not just across the ditch. Here in Queensland, you’ll often see their understated but well-loved kit at BQ events, on rail trails, and just out in the wild being used and abused.

Ground Effect design and manufacture all their clothing in Christchurch, NZ – not in a high-volume, low-cost offshore factory. So every item they make needs to earn its place, and every feature of said item needs to be justified. And when they get it right (which they often do), riders hang onto their kit for years. That longevity is part of the brand’s DNA — excellent fabrics, clever design, and no unnecessary frills.

The Baked Alaska long sleeve is a winter riding staple. It combines a finely knit merino wool fabric with a windproof front panel and a high collar, delivering the warmth of a vest with the convenience of a riding jersey. It’s the kind of top that makes you wonder why more winter gear isn’t made this way – warm where you need it, and breathable where you don’t. Beyond the Burnt Orange shown, the Baked Alaska comes in Cobalt Blue and Dark Royal. Ground Effect also produce the The Popsicle, the same garment but in a women’s fit and sizing, and also available in three colours.

The cut isn’t a spray-on racing fit making it perfect for layering. Whether you’re pulling it over a base layer, under a jacket, or wearing it as-is on a brisk morning, the Baked Alaska plays well with others. Thumb loops help keep sleeves in place under gloves, and the ¾ front zip offers a quick way to vent heat once you’ve warmed up.

As for storage, there’s a well-placed zippered central pocket (ideal for valuables or snacks) flanked by two traditional jersey-style rear pockets, making it just as functional on the bike as it is warm and comfortable.

Riding in the Ground Effect Baked Alaska

Dressing for a Queensland winter can be tricky. Over the last few weeks I’ve rolled out when there has been a frost, and ended the same rides as the mercury nudges 20 degrees. This means layering, and choosing the layers, is essential. Across different rides, I paired the Baked Alaska with no under shirt, either a short or long sleeve undershirt, and even with a light shell over the top to cut wind – plus my BQ Neck Gaitor of course. This helped cover the complete range of temperatures, and while using the jersey alone close to 20 degrees was warm, the merino fabric is highly breathable, and I was happy to have the long sleeves for the sun protection.

In short, it’s the kind of winter top that earns a permanent place on the gear hook. No flashy logos, no gimmicks — just quiet, hard-working performance from a company that’s been doing that for decades. If you’re after something for the warmer months, you’ll have to check out our review of the Ground Effect Solaris and Flare.

$182 AUD/ $199 NZD
groundeffect.co.nz

Bicycle Queensland members receive a free pair of merino wool socks ($NZD35) with any purchase. Login to the BQ Portal for details.