When it's cold and wet outside, the right thermal underwear is crucial to stay warm and dry. As an outdoor enthusiast, I know from experience how important the right clothing layer is to be optimally protected in any weather. In this blog post, I would like to introduce you to the best thermal underwear models for women and give you tips on what to look for when buying.
Why is thermal underwear so important?
Thermal underwear forms the base of your clothing and has a crucial function: it transports moisture away from the body and keeps you warm. If you freeze in cold or wet conditions, it is usually because your clothing does not transport moisture properly. Sweat-soaked clothing cools the body and causes you to cool down quickly.
High-quality thermal underwear made from functional fibers like merino wool or synthetics like polypropylene wicks moisture away from the body to the next layer of clothing. This keeps your skin dry and makes you feel comfortably warm even during exertion.
The best materials for thermal underwear
Not every material is equally suitable for thermal underwear. Here is an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of common fibers:
Merino Wool
- Very good moisture regulation and heat insulation
- Pleasantly soft on the skin
- Odor-neutral, due to natural odor inhibitors
- Relatively high price
Polypropylene
- Very good moisture wicking
- Light and quick-drying
- Cheaper than merino wool
- Can itch on sensitive skin
Cotton
- Pleasantly soft on the skin
- Poor moisture regulation
- Cools when wet
Silk
- Very light and snug
- Good heat insulation
- Relatively expensive
For most outdoor activities, I recommend merino wool or polypropylene as the base clothing layer. These materials offer the best combination of moisture transport, heat insulation, and wearing comfort.
The best thermal underwear models for women
Based on my experiences and test reports, I have compiled the top recommendations for women's thermal underwear for you:
1. Icebreaker Oasis Leggings and Long Sleeve Shirt
The merino wool underwear from Icebreaker is very high quality and offers excellent moisture transport and heat insulation. The fit is form-fitting and the surface is pleasantly soft. Perfect for winter sports like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.
2. Odlo Cubic Functional Underwear
Odlo uses polypropylene fiber, which wicks moisture away from the body in no time. The Cubic series is particularly breathable and dries very quickly. Ideal for sweat-inducing activities like mountain hiking or cycling.
3. Falke Wool-Tech Long Sleeve Shirt and Pants
The blend of merino wool and synthetic fibers combines the advantages of both materials. The Falke Wool-Tech series is very durable, dimensionally stable, and offers good moisture transport.
4. Smartwool Merino 150 Long Sleeve Shirt and Pants
As a base layer, the Merino 150 series by Smartwool is excellent. The merino wool is pleasantly soft and reliably regulates body temperature. Perfect for hiking and trekking tours.
5. Löffler Transtex Warm Long Sleeve Shirt and Pants
Löffler uses a special polypropylene fiber that quickly wicks away moisture. The Transtex Warm series is very light and offers good thermal insulation. Ideal for sweat-inducing outdoor activities.
No matter if you are skiing, hiking, or cycling - with the right thermal underwear models, you are well equipped for any weather condition. Invest a little more in high-quality functional underwear, it pays off in the long run with more comfort and safety.
Tips for Buying Thermal Underwear
When buying thermal underwear, you should pay attention to a few things:
- Pay attention to the right fit. The underwear should be snug but not restrictive.
- Choose the functional fiber that suits your activities: merino wool for endurance sports, polypropylene for sweat-inducing activities.
- Invest a little more in high-quality brand products. These are more durable and offer better moisture transport.
- Combine top and bottom parts from the same series for optimal fit and functionality.
- Look for flat seams and seamless processing for maximum wearing comfort.
With the right thermal underwear, you are well equipped for any outdoor activity. Don't let wind and weather slow you down and enjoy your time in nature to the fullest!
Conclusion
High-quality thermal underwear is essential to stay warm and dry in any weather. Merino wool and polypropylene are the best materials to wick moisture away from the body and retain heat.
With the top models I have presented from Icebreaker, Odlo, Falke, Smartwool, and Löffler, you are well equipped for your outdoor adventures. Invest a little more in your functional underwear - it pays off in the long run with more comfort and safety.
I wish you lots of fun and a great time in nature!