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The 12 best thermal underwear for women
Because fashion and comfort can co-exist, people
The winter season is well and truly in full swing, which means two things: copious amounts of hot chocolate with extra marshmallows by the fire and the yearly transition into our evermore era, complete with cable knit jumpers, cosy turtlenecks and oversized plaid coats.
However, as of late, it's felt way colder than in previous years, meaning our winter wardrobes have required a little extra helping hand: cue the trusty thermals.
While the word 'thermal' has often lent itself to the classic image of long johns, skiing or some sort of vest your grandad would wear, in recent years, practicality and fashion combined have come a long way – and these days, thermal underwear and undergarments for women is a more than acceptable shout. Plenty of brands have now created the best thermal underwear that will not only keep you warm but also make you feel good, too.
But before we get into our best picks (there is a design and style for everyone btw), let's unpack some of the aspects of what makes a good thermal garm:
Breathability
Firstly, it's important for the thermal material to have breathable properties so that the underwear can properly regulate your body temperature. This not only conserves your body heat and keeps you warm during the colder days, but it also prevents sweating so that you stay dry.
Material
Because thermal underwear acts as the base layer of clothing, its intention is to be in direct contact with your skin. This means that material choice is crucial. Some of the best thermal materials include merino wool, polyester and elastane, as all can provide insulation while maintaining the all-important breathability.
If you're planning on taking part in any high-activity events, whether it be winter sports or a jog around the block on your lunch break, it's best to avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture while simultaneously removing heat from the body.
Ease of washing
Be sure to check the label or product info if buying online – some under garments may be hand wash only (e.g. some products made from merino wool are best not chucked in the washing machine along with your other dirty laundry, so take note of that).
Cost
We know it's tough out there with the cost of living crisis going on, so we've opted to include a range of price points in our round-up.
So, with looking good and staying warm as equal priorities, here are 12 of the best thermal underwear for women this winter...
M&S Collection Heatgen™ Thermal Long Sleeve Polo Neck Body
Ah, the good old bodysuit, famous for its versatility and flattering style. You've got a couple of options here - you can either wear it as a base layer and add your chunky knits over the top, or you can wear as is with a pair of your fave mom jeans. People will be none the wiser that you're out and about in your underwear, but you'll 100% be warm.
This underwear set comes in an array of different colours, including nude, black, white, purple, light grey and dark grey. Whichever shade you prefer, you'll be kept toasty all day long, whether you're lounging around in your house or running errands before Christmas.
John Lewis Heat Generating Roll Neck Thermal Top, Hot Pink
What's great about this thermal offering from John Lewis is that it can be worn as a heat-generating underlayer or completely on its own as the main attraction.
The body-hugging style and roll neck act as heat-inducers in themselves, and it's also partly made from elastane.
These high-rise style thermal brief shorts are simple and effective. Again, available in either black or white, your mid-rif right down to your upper thighs will be kept at a comfortable temperature.
Next describes these high-waisted knickers as a "perfect second skin base layer" for an "everyday cold weather solution."
With a breathable fabric and super soft to the touch, these thermal undies are also just super pretty thanks to the extra detailing from the lace trim.
If high-waisted knickers aren't your thing and you're more of a hipster type of gal, this three-pack will be right up your street.
Made from 68% nylon and 32% elastane, Next shared how the knickers are "extra comfortable by wicking sweat and stretching so you can move no matter what."
If there's one person adamant about looking good at all times, it's Kim Kardashian. Granted, the majority of her SKIMS range doesn't specifically say 'thermal,' but a large proportion of the materials used align with the materials mentioned earlier.
For example, these hot pink boy shorts are made from elastane, which means they'll be breathable while also helping to keep you warm. And because they're a product from Kim K, you know damn well they'll look top-notch.
Merino Active Crop
You can always count on ModiBodi to provide the goods, can't you? This sports bra is the perfect addition to your winter active wardrobe as it's made from merino wool, which means it'll help to regulate your temperature while you work out.
It's also designed to fit firmly against your body and has removable foam bra cups for extra support.
sloggi is one of the most comfortable underwear brands out there, so if you value comfort the most, you're going to want to get your hands on one of their ZERO Feel crop tops ASAP.
Literally described as a "second skin," this bra is made from 70% polyamide and 30% elastane which means it'll be lightweight but able to keep in the heat. Sold.
M&S Collection Heatgen Plus™ Thermal Vest
If you need to quickly chuck something underneath your jumper before you leave the house in the morning, this M&S thermal vest will do the trick.
It's got wider shoulder straps for extra support and added stretch for comfort, with another big tick being that the materials for the vest are responsibly sourced.
Another vest option if you want to stock up so that you can rotate over winter. This offering from H&M "has been developed to keep you warm with minimum bulk and weight" and it's also made from 30% recycled polyester.
Nike Training Alate Coverage Dri-FIT light support sports bra
And one more thermal sports bra for all you winter sports enthusiasts. Trust, when you put on this bra and get your pump on you definitely won't be uncomfortable, or cold.
As per the description, it "moves sweat away from the skin, then draws it out of the fabric to help speed up evaporation," and is "perforated for ventilation."
Sophie Williams is a Freelance Journalist and Copywriter, covering everything from Fashion to Entertainment to music, Lifestyle and Features. She has interviewed a range of musical artists and authors including Alyssa Edwards, Courtney Barnett, Confidence Man, The Vaccines, Loyle Carner, Gabrielle, and John Niven, and has written for publications like Metro, Reader's Digest, ITV's Woo! and Vice’s NBGA. She is also working on a book for HarperCollins about Taylor Swift, due to be published in 2024.
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