Thermal Underwear Buyers Guide

When buying thermal underwear it can get confusing as to what type to buy as many brands are marketed as having amazing properties or use fancy language and science to amaze and yet baffle you in to buying their product. There are so many different materials and coatings out there that know which one to go for is difficult so the first thing you need to decide is what you will be using the thermal underwear for, here is a simple guide.

Winter Sports

If you need thermals for a winter sports holiday then choosing a light, stretchy insulating material with a high wicking ability is essential as performing a lot of physical activity will generate sweat and this needs to be drawn away from the skin to the outer surface of the undergarment where it can then transfer to the next layer and so on until it can escape in to the atmosphere. Cotton is the worst choice as it does wick sweat but will retain it and takes far too long to dry making you colder than if you had not worn it at all. Polypropylene fabrics are fairly cheap and are a good all rounder, they also have a low thermal conductivity so the heat won’t leave the fabric as fast.

Extreme Cold Conditions

For those that like to travel where extreme cold bites then wool is the best natural fibre available as it wicks very well and gives massive insulation, it also will keep you warm even when wet. Wool is expensive but for the extreme conditions it is well worth it and could be the difference between life and death. Mountaineering shops stock many thermal items and the base layer is one of the most important so it’s taken very seriously, the layer should be close fitting and if going for a synthetic instead of wool then look for it to have the a high wicking ability, provide expert insulation and be able to trap and retain as much heat as possible.

Just to Keep Warm

Whilst at home keeping warm can be difficult, with heating cost soaring it’s getting very expensive, so for those people who either want to reduce their fuel bills or are just finding it hard to keep warm then you should definitely invest in thermals. Synthetic fabrics or natural fabrics with synthetic coatings are the best for this situation. You should not spend more than £20 on a top or bottoms as the higher prices are for more extreme conditions and are not worth it unless you are seriously very cold. Long time thermal makers Damart use heat caputuring material Thermolactyl in their products and they have a great range of thermals in an array of colours, styles and warmth grades that are fashionable and affordable.

Don’t be afraid to ask in store or online when making a purchase as to whether the thermals will suit your needs as keeping warm whatever you’re doing this winter is essential and knowing that you’re wearing the right thermals for the situation is comforting.