How to choose thermal underwear
→ How to choose thermal underwear
To choose the right thermal underwear, it's advisable, first and foremost, to opt for a garment that's both waterproof and breathable. Then, to choose the right thermal underwear, it's also important to consider material(synthetic or natural), weight (heavier for more warmth), fit and comfort.
These insulating undergarments, designed to wick away perspiration and maintain warmth, are essential for outdoor activities. A quality underlayer is crucial, as it forms the basis of your clothing system, and a poor choice could undermine the effectiveness of the other layers.
→ Thermal underwear: essential comfort
Feeling good in your thermal underwear is an essential priority. Flexibility, fabric stretch and garment size are important. You'll need a with a waist that's very close to the body to capture its moisture, but still guarantees you unrestricted freedom of movement.
Then it's up to you to choose the garment that best suits your preferences and conditions of use. The most widespread thermal underwear is the which is the real basis of sportswear. It will keep your whole upper body warm, while maintaining a certain ease of movement.
You can also find, on our site, for women or men, which will have the same technical characteristics. There are two types of material that can make up your thermal underwear.
→ Thermal underwear made from natural fibers
Merino wool is the most widely used wool in the manufacture of thermal underwear thanks to its lightness and value for money. Merino wool acts both as a powerful antibacterial and is above all thermoregulatory. Its knitted fabric keeps the body warm and dry, even in very cold and damp weather.
➡️ Materials :
- Wool
- Merino wool
- Bamboo
✅ Advantages :
- Natural warmth
- Lightweight
- Pleasant to the touch
- Excellent natural odor management
❌ Disadvantages:
- Fragility (susceptible to snags and wears out faster)
- Higher cost than synthetic
- Longer to dry than synthetic
→ Thermal underwear made from synthetic fibers
Materials such as polyester, polyamide and elastane are hydrophobic and do not absorb water. They regulate temperature perfectly and are ideal for intense exertion.
➡️ Materials :
- Polyester
- Polyamide
- Elastane
- Polypropylene
✅ Advantages:
- Dries faster than natural fibers
- High wear resistance
- Lower cost than natural fibers
- Better elasticity
- Easy to care for
❌ Disadvantages:
- Heavier weight than wool
- Less odor management
- Less heat input
How do I care for my technical underwear?
To care for your thermal underwear properly and avoid shrinkage, we recommend washing at temperatures no higher than 30°C. Thermal undergarments are fragile, like for example, especially when made from merino wool.
It's also advisable to let them air-dry and avoid using an iron or tumble-dryer, to prolong their life. Last but not least, avoid mixing them with garments likely to cause snags, especially if they are made of wool. For further advice on caring for your technical garments, .
→ Indispensable thermal pants and tops
At Nautisports, we strive to bring you the best thermal underwear.
Whether for women or for men, you'll find thermal undershirts as well as pants that are the main items to own to protect you from the cold.
Among the wide selection of products available on our site, Helly Hansen's range is one of the Norwegian brand's best sellers. Men's and women's thermal underwear is also available from Musto and Gill.
→ Keep your freedom of movement with thermal pants
The or thermal underpants, are garments specially designed to offer optimum protection against the cold, often used in extreme winter conditions or for outdoor activities.
Made from insulating materials such as merino wool or technical synthetic fibers, they help maintain body heat while ensuring good breathability.
Thermal pants are lightweight, close-fitting and often worn as an underlayer under wider garments, helping to retain heat without restricting movement.
They are appreciated for their moisture-wicking properties, preventing body moisture from chilling the skin.
→ Thermal tops: stay warm and dry
Thermal tops are garments designed to offer optimum thermal insulation while being lightweight and comfortable.
Made from specific materials such as polyester, merino wool or synthetic blends, they retain body heat while wicking away moisture, helping to keep you dry even during intense physical activity.
Thanks to their elasticity, thermal tops offer freedom of movement, while fitting snugly around the body to prevent heat loss.
They are essential for maintaining a stable body temperature while staying comfortable in harsh weather conditions.
→ Thermal clothing: the 3-layer rule
It would be hard to talk about without mentioning the three-layer concept! Breathable first layer, insulating second layer, protective third layer: this system is renowned for its exceptional efficiency.
➡️ First layer = thermal undergarment
It's in direct contact with the skin, and must be breathable to wick away perspiration, so you don't end up with damp clothes and a chilly feeling. Cotton is not recommended, as it is not very breathable. The choice of thermal undergarments is therefore crucial.
➡️ Second layer = fleece & softshell
This layer, generally made up of fleeces or softshells, must both transfer moisture outwards and provide the necessary warmth. When active, fleece is recommended for breathability, and when stationary, a down jacket for warmth.
➡️ Third layer = waterproof jacket
This layer, often a waterproof jacket, or hardshell, protects against rain and wind, thanks to a breathable membrane that keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape. It does not protect against the cold, but acts as a shield against the elements.
→ Make your choice of thermal underwear at Nautisports
To choose the right thermal undergarment, you mainly need to look at the material it's made of. Polyester and polyamide provide excellent breathability, while elastane offers greater flexibility and freedom of movement.
Whether you're looking for diving underwear or thermal underwear for offshore activities, Nautisports offers a wide range of products, from men's thermal tops to women's thermal pants, so don't let the cold get to you, and get thermal underwear for your sea outings or other outdoor activities.
