This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.
Initially, only athletes used thermal underwear. It made it possible to remove moisture well from the skin during physical activity, thereby preventing the skin from freezing. Today there are a great many companies producing such “smart clothes”. And it is in demand not only among people leading an active lifestyle, but also among those who like leisurely walks around the city.
How to choose thermal underwear
- Type of thermal underwear directly depends on the buyer’s lifestyle and the purposes for using the clothing. To simply stay warm on the way to work, this is one type, but for active sports – another. Before purchasing, it is important to know the following selection criteria:
- Material. During active physical activity, experts recommend choosing synthetic models. The age when all clothing should be made only from natural layers is a thing of the past. What happens to a cotton T-shirt after an active winter run? She will get wet, and the person will sweat. In this case, synthetics will not allow heat to escape and will not get wet. The person will remain dry and warm. There are combined thermal underwear: synthetics plus natural fabrics. This type will perfectly retain heat, but will remove all excess moisture outside. This option is suitable for snowboarders. Fishermen should pay attention to products made from natural wool. This will keep you from freezing for a long time no movement.
- Size. Before purchasing, you must try on the product. It must not cause the slightest discomfort. Clothing should fit snugly to the body, but not press anywhere.
- Season. There are special thermal underwear even for summer. Its main task is to remove moisture. The denser the fabric, the colder the season it is intended for.
- Manufacturers produce men's, women's and children's underwear. The difference is not only in properties, but also in design. After all, representatives of the fair sex always want to look attractive. Taking this into account, brands have developed modern models feminine cut. Children's thermal underwear uses a mixture of natural and synthetic materials. In addition, it is better that the first underbody layer is made of hypoallergenic fabric. To avoid making a mistake with your purchase, our experts have compiled a rating of the best thermal underwear for all occasions, based on the advice of professionals.
Rating of the best thermal underwear manufacturers
Nomination | place | product name | Peculiarity |
The best manufacturers of thermal underwear for men and women | 1 | excellent quality | |
2 | best protection from the cold | ||
3 | suitable for all types of winter sports | ||
4 | wide functionality | ||
5 | original design | ||
6 | optimal for active sports | ||
The best manufacturers of thermal underwear for children | 1 | for active children | |
2 | convenience and comfort | ||
3 | best value for money | ||
The best manufacturers of thermal underwear for fishing | 1 | suitable for varying degrees of activity | |
2 | best price | ||
3 | high wear resistance |
The best manufacturers of thermal underwear for men and women
The basic principle of any thermal underwear is layering of clothing. The first layer is the underwear itself, the second is an insulated fleece or wool vest, the third is a membrane jacket that perfectly removes excess moisture. But not every man will follow these principles. Ease of use is important to them. For women, on the contrary, appearance above all. We have compiled a rating of companies that satisfy both needs at once.
The German company Norveg has a wide range of models, offering the most non-standard solutions for men and women. All products of the manufacturer are made from merino sheep wool. This material not only perfectly warms you in severe frosts, but also knows how to remove moisture from the surface of the skin without retaining it. In addition, Norveg takes care of its customers by using only first-cut wool. Therefore, it is simply impossible to freeze in such models.
The company is meticulous about the quality of its products at all stages of thermal underwear production. Even the dyeing of fabrics is done only with natural substances. And the processing occurs without the use of chlorine-containing substances.
Advantages
naturalness;
unnoticeable when worn, all models fit the body neatly.
Flaws
- high cost.
Janus
Janus thermal underwear is produced in Norway, a country where climatic conditions are similar to Russian ones. Therefore, the linen perfectly suits the needs of our customers. All products are made from merino wool, namely from the shirt front of the animal. Here it is longer, so the clothes are very warm and can withstand the most severe frosts. The important thing is that the products, by removing moisture from the body, keep the skin dry.
In addition, Janus produces excellent quality lingerie. Even after repeated washing, the clothes will not lose their properties, having lasted for more than one year. Only natural dyes of various shades and colors are used in production.
Advantages
wide range of models for men, women and children;
easy to care for;
variety of colors;
Flaws
- Some buyers note a boring design.
ODLO Warm Trend thermal underwear is made of polyester. The material is synthetic, but it is suitable for all types of winter sports. You will always be warm in such clothes if you follow temperature regime:
- from +13 to -10 °C you don’t have to worry about standing at a bus stop for a long time or walking in slushy weather in ODLO Warm Trend;
- From 0 to -15 °C you won’t be able to freeze if you run or walk quickly;
- from -10 to -25 °C is acceptable for use when engaging in active sports.
In such clothes you don’t have to worry about freezing outside and overheating indoors. The fabric perfectly wicks moisture away from the body, leaving the skin dry and warm. And the ODLO effect will protect against the appearance of unpleasant sweat odor. The whole secret is in the composition of the fiber; it is saturated with silver ions, which kill all bacteria that cause an unpleasant odor.
Advantages
protection against unpleasant sweat odor;
suitable for different temperature conditions;
does not cause irritation;
Flaws
- Most buyers think the price is a little high.
Brand Ultramax – Russian production, but is controlled by the Italian company Dimanche S.r.l. All manufactured products delight not only with an affordable price, but also with amazing quality. Thermal underwear is made from patented materials: insulated fleece, merino wool, functional polyester and the lightest material - prolene.
A wide range of sizes and models will allow you to choose a model to suit every taste. In addition, the production uses a unique technology that allows you to make a flat seam in clothes. This creates maximum wearing comfort, eliminating the possibility of skin chafing. Therefore, Ultramax is suitable for everyone without exception.
Advantages
wearing comfort;
hypoallergenic.
Flaws
- narrow color range
The Finnish company Guahoo attracts buyers with a wide range of models and functionality. It produces clothes for the whole family and for all occasions: from everyday wear to active sports, hunting and fishing.
In the models you can find gradations according to temperature: Light – cool, Middle – cold, Heavy – very cold. And the fibers of the material from which clothing is made are intertwined in a special way. This allows you to not freeze even in severe frost and not sweat indoors.
Advantages
wide range of models;
reasonable price.
Flaws
- Several buyers note in their reviews poor-quality seam processing.
The rating would be incomplete without the manufacturer of the best thermal underwear for people involved in very active sports. A distinctive feature of Craft Active clothing is the rapid removal of moisture, while maintaining body temperature at the same level. This underwear works together with a person under active loads.
Clothes do not restrict movement, which allows you not to be distracted from your main activity. The material is pleasant to the skin and does not cause irritation. The quality of the finish is excellent, the seams are made perfectly, so they do not rub the skin.
Advantages
removes moisture well;
does not irritate the body;
retains heat for a long time;
Flaws
- It may stretch out a bit over time.
The best manufacturers of thermal underwear for children
The most famous athlete can envy the child’s activity. After all, children love to run and jump regardless of the weather. Of course, with such energy expenditure, it is important that the baby’s body remains dry and warm. An excellent solution for active children is to purchase a set of thermal underwear. But even here it is important not to make a mistake, but to take into account all the characteristics of the baby: his level of activity, how much time he spends outside. Based on reviews from parents, we have compiled a rating of the best children's thermal underwear.
Reima
The Finnish brand Reima has been delighting consumers since 1944 and creates clothes specifically for active and energetic children. Thermal underwear contains synthetic and natural fibers. Suitable for use in any season, even in severe frosts. For such a case, the manufacturer has models made from merino sheep wool. Parents can rest assured about their child; this composition allows them to remain dry even after very active and long games in the cold. The baby will not sweat, which means he will not freeze.
All this is complemented by the high-quality cut of the linen. The seams are made in such a way that there is no possibility of chafing the delicate baby skin. The clothing does not restrict movement and is suitable for use from 0 to 12 years.
Advantages
perfectly removes moisture from the surface of the skin;
quality cut.
Flaws
- high cost.
Brubeck underwear is produced using seamless technology, which allows for maximum wearing comfort for little fidgets. Clothes from the Polish company do not rub or prick, keeping you warm even in the most extreme cold. For the production of thermal underwear, fabric made from merino wool, polyamide and cotton is used. The range of temperature limits for use is from +30 to -30 °C depending on the model.
In manufacturing, the principle of zoning is used, i.e. In areas of increased sweating there are additional inserts for better moisture removal. All models give comfort and joy of movement to the most active kids.
Advantages
interesting design;
Flaws
- Some models may pill after several washes.
Oldos
The Russian company Oldos has been producing children's thermal underwear since 2003. This is an excellent option for the price-quality ratio of products. All models are certified according to GOST. By choosing a brand from a Russian manufacturer, parents can rest assured about their baby. After all, the temperature range that the laundry can withstand ranges from +5 to -45 degrees.
Clothing can be one, two or three layers. The more layers, the lower temperatures the model is adapted to. At the same time, the linen is of impeccable quality and can be used for more than one season. When wearing, movement is not constrained thanks to flat seams that do not feel or rub.
Norfin is famous for producing clothing mainly for men. Here, models are made for different weather conditions for different degrees of activity. It is important to study the parameters on the package before purchasing to make sure that the underwear is selected correctly. A well-chosen set sits on the body, giving a pleasant feeling of lightness. It will practically not be felt, as it creates a “second skin” effect.
For fishermen, Norfin offers the Comfortline line. You can sit in the cold for a long time in such underwear without fear of freezing and catching a cold. In areas most susceptible to freezing, there are special microfleece inserts for additional protection from the cold.
Advantages
- withstands extreme cold.
Flaws
- Pilling may appear after several washes.
The Russian brand Nova Tour was created specifically for tourism and outdoor recreation. This company is mainly popular among hunters and fishermen. And the thermal underwear produced is suitable for any weather conditions, because it perfectly retains heat and removes moisture. During production, the manufacturer takes into account not only the degree of activity, but also the conditions where the manufactured clothing will be used.
Thermal underwear for fishing has several temperature conditions from +20 to -30 degrees and can be used in different times year. It retains heat perfectly and does not require special care.
Advantages
holds heat well;
affordable price;
does not restrict movement;
Flaws
- few color options.
Our rating includes another Russian brand that produces thermal underwear exclusively for the specific climate of our country. The Dry Web Ultra line, made of three-layer fabric, has been developed especially for fishermen. The first underwear absorbs moisture, the middle layer actively moves it, and the third layer evaporates this moisture.
But the main quality of clothing is that it retains heat perfectly. The thermal underwear fabric consists of merino wool and high-volume acrylic. In addition, the composition of the material perfectly absorbs the smell of sweat, preventing harmful bacteria from multiplying.
Advantages
keeps warm;
wear resistance.
Flaws
- discrepancy with the size range.
Attention! This rating is subjective in nature, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.
Thermal underwear for sports first appeared several decades ago, and was initially available only to military personnel and athletes. However, soon positive qualities This type of clothing is appreciated by a huge number of people around the world. This underwear jersey:
does not distort the silhouette;
reliably protects its owner from both severe frosts and heat;
leaves a person complete freedom of movement due to its incredible elasticity;
fits tightly to the body;
does not float and does not irritate the skin.
One can talk about the positive features of such clothing for quite a long time, but how is this effect achieved? It should be said that such kits are based on the right combination of synthetic and natural materials, due to which Garsing thermal underwear, as well as the model range of other manufacturers, creates a comfortable microclimate inside the clothing, keeping body temperature in the so-called “tolerance zone” - this is a small temperature range in which a person feels most comfortable.
Thermal underwear made of polyester and other thermal fabrics has become popular recently, because such a wardrobe element retains heat much more effectively than conventional sets made of synthetic and natural fabrics. Thermal underwear is especially popular for fishing, hunting, outdoor activities in winter and skiing. In addition to thermal insulation, sets of modern materials perfectly remove liquid and prevent getting wet. Moreover, even if the complex does get wet (rain, sleet, sweat), it will not lose its thermal insulation properties, which is extremely important during outdoor activities.
Thermal socks, sweatshirts, knee socks and long johns at the best price
There are many sales points whose main activity is thermal underwear. The online store “Tylovik”, whose pages you are now leafing through, is one of them. We often buy this kind of clothing for people who, due to their professional activities, are often outdoors in any weather - sellers, instructors, builders, installers and, of course, the military.
Winter thermal underwear is distinguished by a special fabric composition that is not afraid of exposure even to very low temperatures and becomes a reliable protection between the wearer’s body and severe frosts; such underwear does not allow the icy winter wind to pass through. If we talk about what the statutory thermal underwear should be, the regulations of various departments do not put forward strict requirements for this element of the wardrobe, the main thing is that it is warm, comfortable and does not restrict the movement of employees.
That is why thermal underwear for all departments is not very different from most civilian models. The only difference that can be is the difference in colors; if, for example, civilian models can have any color, then military items are most often made in black, blue or camouflage fabrics. Extremities freeze the most in the cold, which is why military thermal socks are in incredible demand in winter, allowing a person to feel comfortable even in autumn shoes at low temperatures. In addition to socks, the kit may include:
T-shirt;
sweatshirt;
pants.
At the same time, you can buy thermal underwear of any nature and purpose on the pages of our store, where a colossal number of different models are presented. It should be said that we offer each client to acquire this warm clothing, necessary for any season, and to protect themselves from winter frosts, regardless of how much time you have to be outside every day. Now you will always feel incredibly comfortable.
Men's thermal underwear is indispensable, first of all, for athletes, fishermen, hunters and military personnel, however, civilians also wear this type of clothing with pleasure. We offer not only men's sets, but also women's thermal underwear, so with our help you can get warm clothes for your entire family. Do you want to buy thermal socks? Make purchases with us, because you won’t find anything cheaper in all of Moscow!
With the onset of cold weather, people begin to become interested in thermal underwear in stores. In the old days, it was bought mainly by professional athletes, but today this underwear is available to everyone. The term “thermal underwear” has taken hold in modern society and has acquired many myths regarding what it should be and what it is generally intended for. We will help you figure it out and give you practical advice by choice of thermal underwear.
First, let's figure out what thermal underwear is? Externally, thermal underwear is similar to things familiar to all of us: T-shirts with long and short sleeve, turtlenecks, shorts, long johns, leggings, etc. All this is not so great value, like the type of material and type of weaving that was used to create linen.
Thermal underwear is special clothing for thermal insulation and moisture removal. The most the best material Polypropylene is considered to be used for the manufacture of thermal underwear; it has zero absorbency; polyester is also used. To make thermal underwear pleasant to wear, cotton or wool is added to it.
Modern technologies for the production of thermal underwear involve a special weaving of very thin fiber (microfiber). Due to the high density of fibers, a feeling of comfort is created. To achieve a thermal effect, two methods of weaving fabric are used: waffle weaving, mesh weaving and longitudinal ribbed weaving. In the first case, a thick air layer is created; such underwear warms well, but does not remove moisture well enough. And when using polymer materials, a less pronounced volumetric weaving is used. The peculiarity of thermal underwear made of polymer materials is that it is two-layer. The inner layer is made of polymer material, and the outer layer has a “cellular” structure, provides additional thermal insulation and works for maximum moisture distribution and rapid evaporation.
To get rid of unpleasant odors When worn for a long time, modern manufacturers of thermal underwear treat it with antibacterial treatment. Also, in order to maintain skin hygiene, bacteriostatic fiber Meryl Skinlife is used, and to suppress the proliferation of bacteria and fungi, it is used nylon thread X-Static, which is coated with a layer of silver.
Modern thermal underwear is classified according to many criteria, taking into account physical activity, in which it will be worn. Physical activity involves not only sports, but any activity in general (leisurely walks, winter fishing, etc.). Accordingly, activity can be low or high, and this is important to consider when choosing a thermal underwear model.
How to choose the right thermal underwear?
To choose the right thermal underwear, you must determine what tasks it should cope with. Let's look at the main ones.
- Thermal underwear for sports. Sports thermal underwear should ensure normal moisture removal. In this case, heat conservation fades into the background, since during high physical activity the body temperature does not decrease. You can choose sports underwear with low, medium or high level activity. Most often it is made from synthetic fabrics, which warm better than natural ones. For active recreation in winter, choose thermal underwear that contains polypropylene, which rids the body of excess moisture;
- Thermal underwear for fishing. Organizing winter fishing requires careful selection of thermal underwear for fishing. If you like to sit with a fishing rod on the ice, when choosing thermal underwear for winter fishing, focus on its ability to retain your body heat. Moisture removal in this case is not so important. It is best to choose thermal underwear with wool for sitting still during the cold season;
- Children's thermal underwear. When buying thermal underwear for your child, you must take into account the degree of his activity during walks, as well as how comfortable it will be to put on the baby: for example, a neck that is too narrow can cause the baby to categorically refuse to wear the purchase. Do not buy thermal underwear for children to grow into: the size must strictly correspond to the height of the child during the period when he is going to wear it. For children, choose thermal underwear in a unisex style: practical and comfortable;
- Thermal underwear for everyday wear. Choosing thermal underwear for everyday wear implies some specific parameters. For everyday wear, underwear is suitable that can warm and remove moisture if necessary. As a rule, thin cotton fabrics such as microfiber are better suited for these purposes;
- Men's thermal underwear for cold weather. On sale you can find a wide range of casual and sports thermal underwear for men. Representatives of the stronger sex usually do not like to wrap themselves up and put on several layers of clothing, but in winter it is important to prevent hypothermia. You can kill two birds with one stone by purchasing a T-shirt or turtleneck, as well as long johns made of heat-resistant fabric that will maintain comfort and keep you warm in the most severe frost. Heat-resistant long johns in the Russian winter are not a whim, but a necessity4
- Women's thermal underwear. Women tend to choose thermal underwear made from elastic fabrics that fit the body well and allow them to wear their favorite clothes, regardless of the weather. The modern market offers a wide selection of thermal underwear for women: swimming trunks, tank tops, shirts, bodysuits, leggings. How to choose women's thermal underwear for cold weather? Women's thermal underwear usually has attractive colors and finishing materials. You can even find linens with silk, lace or satin trims that will provide comfort and warmth while still being attractive.
Types of thermal underwear.
When purchasing thermal underwear, it is important to choose the type of material, its structure and cut wisely. Based on the type of fabric used, all linen can be divided into three categories:
- Synthetic underwear. This thermal underwear has moisture-wicking properties and is created for athletes or people experiencing high physical activity with high heat production and sweating. Thermal underwear made of synthetic materials effectively removes moisture from the body and keeps it dry without disturbing the temperature balance. Linen dries quickly, as moisture does not accumulate in synthetics. Synthetic thermal underwear consists of polyamides, polypropylenes and elastanes;
- Heat-saving thermal underwear. It has special thermal insulation fibers and can retain body heat for a long time. Things of this type are sewn from fabrics of a special cellular or volumetric weave, which creates a wide air gap. The larger this layer, the warmer the linen and the longer it will retain heat;
- Heat-saving underwear provides skin ventilation and does not create discomfort even with prolonged wear. Designed for everyday use and designed for low physical activity and low temperatures environment. This type of thermal underwear is made from natural cotton or wool, and there are also synthetic models made from polyester, microfleece and mycoplush;
- Hybrid thermal underwear, considered universal, this underwear meets the most stringent requirements: light, durable, dense, wicks away moisture, and maintains body temperature. This type of thermal underwear most often consists of two or three layers. The inner one (needed to remove moisture) can be made of polypropylene, thermolight or polyamide, and the outer one consists of merins wool (warms). The underwear is suitable for people who engage in active sports, fishing, hunting, mountaineering, and tourism.
Thermal underwear sizes.
Size is very important when choosing thermal underwear because if the thermal underwear does not fit your body well, it will not retain heat properly. If the item is too small, it will hinder your movements and create discomfort.
Thermal underwear sizes are marked with the traditional designations XS, M, L, XL, XXL, but they may differ from one manufacturer to another. We recommend that when purchasing underwear, you are guided by the size chart offered by one or another manufacturer.
When choosing the size of thermal underwear, refer to the following table of thermal underwear sizes:
Name/size | S | M | L | XL |
Men's Thermal Underwear | ||||
HEIGHT | 168-174 | 174-178 | 178-184 | 184-190 |
CHEST CIRCUMSTANCE | 86-92 | 92-98 | 98-104 | 104-110 |
WAIST | 80-84 | 84-88 | 88-92 | 92-96 |
HIPS | 90-94 | 96-100 | 100-104 | 104-108 |
Women's Thermal Underwear | ||||
HEIGHT | 160-164 | 164-170 | 168-174 | 172-178 |
CHEST CIRCUMSTANCE | 84-88 | 88-92 | 92-98 | 98-104 |
WAIST | 64-68 | 68-72 | 72-78 | 78-84 |
HIPS | 90-94 | 94-98 | 98-104 | 104-110 |
Children's thermal underwear | ||||
Name/size | XXS | XS | ||
HEIGHT | 128-134 | 140-146 | ||
CHEST CIRCUMSTANCE | 61-68 | 67-74 | ||
WAIST | 57-62 | 61-66 | ||
HIPS | 66-75 | 72-81 |
Video
How to distinguish real thermal underwear from a fake.
Avoiding counterfeiting when choosing thermal underwear is not very difficult if you know how to distinguish high-quality thermal underwear from a fake. Firstly, when choosing thermal underwear, pay attention to ensure that it does not stretch. Secondly, high-quality thermal underwear should dry in a matter of minutes. Thirdly, good thermal underwear should be seamless.
Signs of high-quality thermal underwear include the following:
- Fits, but does not squeeze;
- All seams and tags are on outside;
- The seams should be flat;
- Does not fade, does not stretch, does not stain when washing thermal underwear;
- Does not absorb odors and does not become wet from sweat;
- You shouldn't be hot in thermal underwear.
Rating of thermal underwear manufacturers.
We present to you the top 5 the best manufacturers thermal underwear.
Thermal underwear Craft produced since 1977 in Sweden. The Kraft assortment includes sweatshirts, T-shirts, long johns, shorts, as well as a separate line for cycling. Distinctive Features Craft thermal underwear - flat seams, soft embossed thread, three-dimensional elastic fabrics, large selection of colors. Prices for Craft thermal underwear range from 800 to 5,000 rubles.
Thermal underwear Guahoo- one of the first brands of thermal underwear to appear on the Russian market. This is an excellent representative of classic thermal underwear models for everyday wear. The advantages include a variety of models, flat seams and wide color scheme. The manufacturer offers 5 options for Guahoo thermal underwear for different temperature conditions and 3 options for different degrees of physical activity. Average price- 5000 rubles.
Thermal underwear Red Fox produced by a Russian company. The manufacturer offers two types of thermal underwear: thin and dense. The first option is suitable for quickly removing moisture and is intended for active sports, and the second is for removing moisture and retaining heat. The advantages of Red Fox thermal underwear: flat seams, anatomical cut, wide and elastic waistband. Prices for Red Fox thermal underwear range from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles.
Thermal underwear Norveg is one of the most popular in Russia. In total, the brand’s assortment includes 7 series: Soft, Winter, Wool+Silk, Active Kids, Hunter, Classic and Merino Wool. But it is worth noting that there are not many color options. The manufacturer promises quick selection of size, anatomical cut and excellent fit to the body. The average price for a set of Norveg thermal underwear is 5,500 rubles.
Thermal underwear Comazo- excellent value for money. The German brand Comazo is popular in the budget thermal underwear segment. The assortment includes 3 types of linen for different temperature conditions from -10 to -35 degrees. People who have worn Comazo thermal underwear note that it is not suitable for active sports, but for everyday wear - best option. The average price of Comazo thermal underwear is 1,500 rubles.
Winter is just around the corner and bitter cold is coming. If so, it’s time to think about warm clothes and special thermal underwear. Layering of clothing is best way protect yourself from severe cold and strong wind. If everything is done correctly, you will smile even in a snow storm, instead of repenting about spending time at home with a cold. Today we will talk about thermal underwear, or rather, we will study the question of how to choose thermal underwear for a man who likes to actively spend time in the fresh frosty air. Let's go!
Conventionally, all clothing can be divided into three layers: a base layer, an insulating layer and a protective outer layer. Underwear, various T-shirts or thermal underwear are considered the base layer, which is directly adjacent to the body. Oddly enough, men often neglect the importance of a base layer. They thoughtlessly use the wrong material, expecting protection and the desired warmth from a thin T-shirt. I will try to present strong arguments in favor of a responsible approach to choosing a base layer and thermal underwear, in particular.
Types of fabric for thermal underwear
On sale you can find three standard types of thermal underwear fabric. They all have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Synthetic thermal underwear
When it comes to cold weather, synthetics are the gold standard for harsh winter conditions. Often the unique combination of polyester, nylon, spandex and lycra achieves the perfect balance of moisture wicking and heat retention that no other combination of materials can achieve.
By the way, you noticed that I wrote “wicks away moisture and retains heat.” The fact is that thermal underwear regulates the removal of moisture from the body rather than warming. At best, thermal underwear with added wool can provide a little warmth. More on him later. All other thermal underwear wicks away moisture, nothing more.
Wool thermal underwear
Wool is created by nature itself to perfectly wick away moisture and retain heat. Difficult to obtain and expensive, wool has been used for hundreds of years to protect explorers, travelers, soldiers and hunters from the cold. True, wool has a drawback - many people do not like it when it comes into contact with the skin. Rash, scabies and irritation can result from such close contact, especially when you are active in the cold.
Cotton is a very cheap material (not counting poor synthetics) and is available in abundance. However, it is less insulating and retains moisture in cold weather. This is VERY BAD, as cold air and accumulated moisture lead to rapid heat loss. Cotton is useful as a base layer when you're going outside but not planning much activity (for example, when you go shopping at a nearby store or spend no more than a couple of hours outside). In this case, the cotton will create an air cushion of warm air, but no more.
We pay attention to moisture removal
As your body warms up, it will try to regulate its temperature, which results in sweating. Under normal conditions, this is good - evaporation removes heat from the surface of the skin, cooling it. Once you're dressed, this becomes a problem unless the fabric is water-repellent.
Too much large number moisture upon contact with cold air leads to accelerated heat loss and/or saturation of the fabric with moisture, resulting in the loss of its insulating properties. Which again leads to heat loss.
You want thermal underwear that effectively wicks moisture away from the middle layer (jeans, sweatshirt, turtleneck, etc.). Synthetics and wool do it; Cotton does not remove heat well.
How a thin layer will retain heat
The secret is in the air gap in the fibers of the fabric.
Loft is a property of low-density fabric that ensures that the fabric retains its shape and retains air. Fabric with good loft perfectly prevents heat loss and cold penetration. It warms, while remaining free and light - important quality for those who pay attention to the weight of clothes.
Types of thermal underwear
Along with the types of fabric for thermal underwear, there are also different types of thermal underwear itself. We'll talk about them below.
Have you ever vacationed or scuba dived at the North Pole? If yes, then you have definitely worn thermal underwear for extreme conditions. This thermal underwear will protect you even in the hottest frost.
Advantages:
- Repels moisture.
- One-piece design - protects the middle of the torso, and you don't have to buy a separate top and bottom.
- Ultimate protection – wrist and ankle protection.
- Provides protection in moderate to extreme cold - from moderate to extremely low temperatures (down to -40-45 degrees Celsius - with other layers).
- The stretch effect allows you to wear thermal underwear for a long time (over 24 hours) without feeling tired.
- Resists bacteria - can be worn for weeks (for hunters, tourists, military).
- Can be used in a wide range of conditions - diving, winter fishing, mountaineering, hunting in the far north.
Flaws:
- High cost ($100-300).
- The one-piece design is only suitable for those who need protection from both the top and bottom.
- Not suitable for temperatures above 10 degrees Celsius, it must be removed if the temperature rises.
- Made from thick fabric, it will hug the body but will add weight.
- May cling to clothing - although latest models have a smooth surface.
Thermal underwear for active activities or extreme sports
If you snowboard or ski on the mountain slopes, then you need thermal underwear for active sports. It is much more convenient and more practical than models for extreme cold, as it is lighter and made of materials more pleasant to the touch.
Advantages:
- Repels moisture.
- Excellent fit - designed to accommodate the armhole width and low waist. Completely covers the torso and limbs, making movement easier.
- Does not cling to clothing and is designed to be worn under clothing or uniforms.
- Provides light to moderate cold protection from moderate to low temperatures (up to 0-10 degrees Celsius).
- Interesting design and colors.
Flaws:
- High cost - $30-100 separately for top or bottom.
- Not suitable for use in low temperature environments (below -12 degrees).
- May not be suitable for long-term wear (over 24 hours) due to form-fitting design.
- A separate top and bottom set does not always protect the midsection, wrists and ankles.
A tip for those who want to save money - pay attention to not very popular brands in your hypermarkets - if you know what the fabric is made of, you can find things of similar quality for 2/3 cheaper. Better yet, head to inexpensive sports stores where you can still buy sleds or wooden skis from Soviet times. This is the power of knowledge!
It must be admitted that not everyone can afford to buy thermal underwear for a season (that’s how much it usually lasts), therefore, some manufacturers are introducing “economy” series products into their product line. This thermal underwear is quite suitable for working outdoors or for a child to play in the yard. Still, it's better than a regular cotton T-shirt.
Advantages:
- Low cost.
- Can repel moisture.
Flaws:
- Not suitable for long-term protection against cold.
- Provides minimal protection in extreme temperatures (below -12 degrees).
- They don't fit well, which leads to overheating, irritation and discomfort.
Here we come to our usual cotton shirt or T-shirt, which, although poorly, protects us from the cold.
Advantages:
- Low cost.
- Provide light protection - suitable for temperatures from 0 to 10 degrees.
Flaws:
- Not suitable for long-term wear at low temperatures.
- Not suitable for long-term protection against cold.
- Provides minimal protection in winter and absorbs moisture, which leads to cooling of the body due to increased sweating.
- Does not fit well, which leads to overheating, irritation and discomfort.
In conclusion
Today we examined only the basic differences various types thermal underwear. This article should help you figure out how to choose thermal underwear for a man, woman, or your child to stay warm this winter. To one degree or another, like any underwear, you will feel comfort or discomfort only some time after wearing it, so I did not recommend a specific manufacturer. Try to try on thermal underwear before purchasing, if the seller allows it and you can evaluate the feel of the fabric a little. All other properties will appear only after use in the field.
I wish you good luck and hope you don't catch a cold this winter!