Thermal undergarments, also known as thermal underwear or base layers, are clothing items worn underneath outer garments to provide insulation and keep the body warm in cold weather conditions. It is made from materials that trap heat, such as wool, fleece, or synthetic fibers. Thermal underwear is often worn as a base layer under other clothing, such as a jacket or coat.
Types of Thermal Underwear
There are two main types of thermal underwear: long johns and leggings. Long johns are full-length pants that cover the legs and torso which is made of wool, synthetic fibers and comparatively thicker. Leggings are shorter pants that cover the legs only which is made of cotton, polyester, spandex comparatively thinner .
Fig 01: Long Johns
Fig 02: Leggings
Characteristics
Feature
Long Johns
Leggings
Material
Wool, synthetic fibers
Cotton, polyester, spandex
Thickness
Thicker
Thinner
Materials Used in Thermal Underwear
Wool: Wool is a natural fiber that is known for its warmth and durability. It is also a good conductor of moisture, which helps to keep you dry.
Fleece: Fleece is a synthetic fiber that is soft and comfortable. It is also a good insulator, which helps to keep you warm.
Synthetic Fibers: Synthetic fibers are often used in thermal underwear because they are inexpensive and easy to care for.
How to Choose Thermal Underwear
When choosing thermal underwear, it is important to consider the climate you will be wearing it in. If you will be in cold weather, you will need a heavier weight thermal underwear. If you will be in mild weather, you can choose a lighter weight thermal underwear.
It is also important to consider the activities you will be doing when wearing thermal underwear. If you will be doing strenuous activity, you will need a thermal underwear that wicks moisture away from your body. If you will be doing less strenuous activity, you can choose a thermal underwear that does not wick moisture away as well.
Uses
Outdoor activities: Thermal undergarments are commonly used in outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, or hunting to provide warmth and comfort in cold weather conditions.
Everyday wear: They are also useful for everyday wear during winter or in occupations that require working in cold environments.
Popular Brands of Thermal Underwear
•Smartwool
•Under Armour
•L.L.Bean
•Patagonia REI Co-op
Conclusion
Thermal underwear stands as a remarkable innovation in cold-weather apparel, offering unparalleled comfort, warmth, and protection. Its ability to regulate body temperature, enhance insulation, and facilitate moisture management make it a must-have item for those seeking to stay cozy during chilly seasons. With its versatile layering options and advancements in fabric technology, thermal underwear has evolved into an indispensable garment that provides both physical and psychological well-being in the face of winter’s bite.
Md. Anwar Hossen is a dynamic faculty of Apparel Engineering department at Textile Engineering College, Noakhali. He is serving as “Foreman” (1st class gazetted officer) since 08th November, 2021. Before getting recommendation by BPSC as Foreman, he served for 03 years 01 month and 12 days as an “Inspector (Technical)” at Department of Textiles. Recently, Mr. Anwar achieved his Master’s of Science in Textile Engineering from Daffodil International University (DIU). He achieved his Bachelor of Science in Textile Engineering from Dhaka University of Engineering & Technology (DUET) in 2019. In 2013, he completed a Diploma in Textile Engineering degree from Begumganj Textile Engineering College, Noakhali (TECN). Learn More>>
