When you think of essential winter clothing, thermal underwear may not be at the top of the list. However, this garment is a worthy addition to your closet.
Often made from fabrics such as wool, cotton, polyester blends and even silk, thermal underwear provides extra warmth and insulation as a base layer. It also wicks moisture away from your body, keeping you dry and protected from colds, which is especially important for outdoor winter activities like skiing and snowball fights.
For women, our top choice is the Thermajane Thermal Underwear Set. For men, our vote goes to the TSLA Thermal Underwear Set.
Here’s our complete list of the best thermal underwear sets for men and women.
Smartwool Merino 150
I have been a fan of Smartwool for many years. Their products are durable and very comfortable, and the 150 series is no exception. Once I put on the tops and bottoms, I almost forget I’m wearing them. And I don’t mind wearing these all day. These merino wool layers do a great job of regulating body temperature and wicking away moisture. I’ve used them for skiing, camping and hiking in cold weather and I’m always impressed with how well they contour your body and keep you warm. Pair them with some of the best hiking pants and you’ll be ready to face the coldest weather outdoors.
TSLA Thermal Underwear Set
Microfiber won’t keep you the warmest outdoors, but finding a suit that can get you through a variety of situations at a budget-friendly price is a win and a great choice for your cold-weather layering arrow pocket. This long sleeve shirt and leggings set features moisture wicking and fleece lining, and is available in 12 colors. With incredible stretch, this set is a great option for those who work outdoors year-round and need extra layers. This set is also available in women’s styles.
Cuddl Duds Long Underwear
My favorite women’s long underwear is by Cuddl Duds. Honestly, I don’t like the bottom but love the top! The Cuddl Duds Long Underwear is perfect to wear under if I want to wear a more stylish long sleeve t-shirt because they are a little thinner and have a more subtle neckline than the SmartWool thermal underwear. If I’m working in a coffee shop or going out to dinner in the winter, then I prefer to wear my Cuddle Duds long underwear top underneath my clothes.
Men’s Capilene Air Bottoms
The outdoor apparel brand’s Capilene base layer is made from recycled polyester and blended with merino wool from New Zealand (we may add ethically sourced) to create a soft, stretchy and quick-drying undershirt that strives to wick sweat moisture and reduce odor while keeping you warm. Comfort is also a top priority, as the seamless 3-D construction reduces chafing, while a double layer in the front crotch adds extra support to your package.
Thermajane Thermal Underwear for Women Ultra Soft Long Johns Set with Fleece Lined
The Thermajane Women’s Thermal Underwear for Extreme Cold suit is lightweight and breathable. It fits like a gentle glove, which means comfort.
The two-piece women’s thermal underwear has an elastic waistband at the bottom that wicks away moisture.
It is fleece lined and 4-way polyester spandex stretch allows for full range of motion.
The overall fit won’t pile up under your clothes because they follow the shape of your body. You can wear this thermal underwear at home or outdoors without additional clothing.
