20 Best Underwear for Winter Underwear (Cold Weather Underwear)

When most people think of how to stay warm in the winter, they think about layering up with sweaters, thermal shirts and thick socks. But for some reason, we assume we can just throw on the same underwear we wore throughout the summer when it was 80+ degrees.

The same way you swap out your summer clothes for winter ones once the temperature drops, you also need to do the same thing with your underwear. 

The question is, what's the best underwear types for winter?

We consulted the pros to find out. Turns out there are 3 layers to consider when choosing outdoor winter clothing. These are the following:

• Base: This layer moves sweat away from the body’s skin (This is your winter underwear, and first and foremost, you need a moisture-wicking fabric. Folks will alternate between lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight underwear depending on the temperature outside and what type of activity they’re doing. Merino wool is generally the best base fabric.)
• Insulating: This layer traps heat around the body. (While it can be long underwear, this layer usually takes the form of vests or sweaters worn over the winter underwear, the best of which are made of fleece, polyester blends, cashmere, acrylic, or wool.)
• Shell: This layer covers everything up and overall protects us from the elements. (This is the top layer. Think ‘turtle shell’. Your best bet is a waterproof, wind-resistant jacket for a shell.)

Now that you know the terminology, let’s look at some of the best winter underwear to help fight cold weather.

10 Best Winter Underwear for Men

1. Smartwool Men’s Base Layer Bottom - Merino 250 Wool Active Pants

You’ll wear these every day all day in the winter: Merino wool does it all -- moisture wicking, odor-neutralizing, thermoregulation, and more. Most importantly, it’s without a doubt the softest wool you’ll ever feel against your skin. This pair guards against chafing, are perfect for the ski hill, and the majority of customers reported they fit precisely ‘as expected.’ 

These are available in 7 show-stopping colors and 5 sizes. Follow care instructions precisely for these, and remember -- no bleach.

The downside: Some (although few) reported their pants were made of a thinner material than desired and had holes worn through them within two winters or less. Others complained their waistband rolled over causing discomfort.

2. Carhartt Men's Force Midweight Classic Thermal Base Layer Pant

Old school durability: The Carhartt brand stands for the outdoor working man. You certainly won’t mind working outside as much when you’ve got these on, especially when worn as the base of the proper 3 layers (as mentioned earlier).

This brand wicks away sweat, traps heat, and prevents odor all through the work day. You’ll feel nice and cozy and warm in them, and rumour has it they get softer after a few washes.

The downside is that some reported the sizing was off (runs small and legs are too long).

3. LAPASA Men's Thermal Underwear Long John Set

Smooth polyester and spandex blend: These are designed to stretch and move with you, are  fleece-lined to help maintain body temperature, and light as a feather to fit well as your base layer. They’re available in an impressive 13 varieties (different colors, and some are middle weight while others are lightweight) and 5 sizes.

For the downside on these, some reported the top or bottom fit differently than the other part although they were sold as a set. Contact the company if this happens; from the looks of it, they’re more than happy to work with people to gain satisfied customers.

4. Thermajohn Men's Ultra Soft Thermal Underwear Long Johns Set

#1 Best Seller in Amazon’s Men’s Thermal Underwear: This 92% uber satin-y polyester and 8% spandex blend allows indulgent softness and a full range of motion for any activity. It adds a sleek base layer that rests perfectly smoothly underneath your clothes for activities, working outdoors, or for wearing comfortably on its own (or under clothes) indoors.

These undies are stretchable and lightweight with optimal moisture-wicking, odor resistance and heat retention. They come as a 2-piece thermal set, available in 6 sizes and 5 attractive colors.

The downside is that some reported receiving the wrong color, their size didn’t fit, and others noted their bottoms mysteriously had no fly.

5. Rocky Thermal Underwear for Men Fleece Lined Thermals

Super toasty and light: A favorite among Amazon’s Men’s Thermal Underwear Union Suits, this gem comes in 9 sizes and 8 colors/designs including a cute Christmas design you should really check out before scrolling on.

Don’t worry if they’re a little snug upon delivery; they stretch a bit and fit pretty well for most wearers after a few days. Plenty of bang for the buck with these.

Downside: The sizing is confusing to some. The instructions say to order a size larger than your usual, while reviews say to order 2 sizes larger.

6. COLORFULLEAF Men’s Cotton Thermal Underwear Union Suits Henley Onesies Base Layer

Super cute adult onesie: A crazy soft cotton/rayon/spandex blend, these adult onesies are adorbs for a fun gift, greeting card material for a matching couples set (ladies’ onesies are here), great for holiday pics of the fam goofing off together, and more. The backside (and front) opens for quick and easy bathroom trips, and overall, they’re remarkably well-made. These are a favorite among Amazon’s Men’s Thermal Underwear Union Suits.

The problem with these? Don’t have too many Christmas Eve cocktails with these on. You’ll need to work with quite a few little buttons to change clothes or use the restroom properly. (They might have been better designed with a zipper instead, just sayin’).

7. TSLA Men's Thermal Wintergear Compression Baselayer

Toasty and smooth base layer: Available in 26 (wow!) different colors and 6 sizes. These will keep you warm from the waist up and even more so from the eyeballs down when you opt to pull the mock neck up and protect your face against the freezing winds of winter.

Works well for staying warm while participating in a range of wintry activities including skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing, hiking, carolling, and sledding to name a few. Two-way superior moisture wicking keeps you dry no matter the activity. Fleece lining makes it extra soft and the poly/spandex blend gives it super elasticity..

The downside is the material is too thin according to some, and others reported theirs didn’t have any fleece lining. Also, the mock neck was loose and hung slack for some -- not taut and tall as shown on packaging.

8. Duofold Men's Mid-Weight Wicking Thermal Pant

Ex: Available in 4 colors and 5 sizes, this classic design is beautifully double-layered for colder days, and prepped for plenty of low-impact activities. These bottoms are conveniently machine washable with itch-free flat lock seams and superior moisture wicking.

The downside is they aren’t very supportive in the nether regions -- some even said they were extremely saggy down there. Some complained they fit strangely in other ways as well -- short overall and baggy, or loose at the waist and tight in the legs, etc.

9. MoFiz Mens Thermal Underwear Warm Top & Bottom Long John Set with Fleece Lined Button Fly

Elastic logo waistband holds you together: Wear with all your other layers outdoors, or indoors as your only layer. Consisting of 90% polyester and 10% spandex, this set is fleece-lined and allows a free range of flexible movement to ensure you can engage in any activities you choose.

They’re perfect for outdoor activities in the cold, or slip them on as the coziest pjs you’ll find.

What’s the downside? Although everything has its negative side, we haven’t found one for these yet. Let us know if you beat us to it!

10. FITEXTREME Mens MAXHEAT Fleece Lined Performance Long Johns Thermal Underwear

A top shelf selection in Men’s Thermal Underwear: With these, advanced moisture wicking capability, superior breathability, and flatlock stitching guarantees a friction-free 4-way stretch. Wear these for sports or other outdoor activities you enjoy, or lounge around in them in the living room. Do you prefer a looser fit? Choose a size larger than your usual in these. Some noted they were a bit on the tight side upon receipt.

What’s the downside? Some reported they didn’t stay as warm in these as they thought they would. Also, they felt the material was cheaper and thinner or ‘flimsier’ than they’d anticipated.

10 Best Winter Underwear for Women

1. Hot Chillys Women's Micro-Elite Chamois 8K Solid Tight

Let these be your favorite winter leggings: These sleek polyester/spandex/lycra blend leggings are made with MTF (Moisture Transfer Fibers), and a cutting edge Bio-Silver treatment for odor-resistance, all of which will keep you cozy and fresh as a stellar base layer.

This fabric forms a nice snug barrier between you and the elements. They are available in 6 sizes and 4 colors including blueberry, white, granite, and black. This pair of winter underwear will keep you snuggly and warm even in very low temps.

The downside: Some reported sizes running at least a size too large, so consider ordering a size smaller than your usual. Others disagreed on how warm they actually keep you in very cold weather.

2. Minus33 Merino Wool Women's Franconia Midweight Bottom

Super warm and thick: Whether you plan on skiing, snowboarding, or sipping hot cocoa in the ski chalet, you’ll stay toasty in these 100% Merino wool leggings. Available in 6 rich colors and 7 sizes, these Minus33 bottoms are super thick and warm, perfect for the coldest days of the year. Has a UPF rating of 50+.

Although it says you can machine wash these, some wearers advise hand washing (or gentle cycle washing) in cold water, tumble drying on low for a short time (maybe 15 minutes), then air drying the rest of the way for best results. Minus33 has been a beloved American-based brand for over 100 years. Comes with a 100% refund purchase price if returned within 30 days.

The downside? One negative aspect is they may warm you up a little bit too much. They’re great to wear on the super cold days -- but possibly too hot for lighter winter days.

3. Thermajane Ultra Soft Thermal Underwear Long Johns Set, Fleece Lined

#1 Best Seller in Women’s Thermal Undie Sets: This cozy 2-piece set comes in 8 sizes and 8 solid colors including purple, navy, red, gray, pink, black, white, and green.

With odor-resistance and moisture wicking technology, and equipped with heat trapping air pockets throughout, these pieces are whisper thin enough to wear underneath a pair of jeans, on their own, or layered for hard core winter sports. These are made of 92% super soft polyester and 8% spandex.

The downside on these is the sizing, which generally runs too large. Some reported using the size guide provided, only to find sleeves too long, butts too baggy, etc.

4. Under Armour Women's UA Base 2.0 Crew

Great base for snowshoeing: Extraordinarily comfy with a top level moisture wicking capability. Consists of 95% polyester and 5% elastane and comes with flatlock seams, anti-odor tech, and even thumb holes at the end of the sleeves.

Holding its own as one of Amazon’s top Women’s Athletic Base Layers, this lovely top comes in black or glacier gray and 5 sizes of awesome warmth and 4-way stretchiness. Get it as a set with bottoms or simply on its own.

Downside? Some had some trouble with sizing, i.e. larges were too big while mediums were too small.

5. Goldenfox Women's Cotton Thermal Underwear Long Johns Winter Set Fleece Lined S-XXXL

Fleece-lined, form-fitting, and cozy: Ranked high in both pajama and underwear sets, this Goldenfox duo is made of 95% cotton and 5% stretchy elastane. Its fleece lining is amazingly soft and heavenly. Wear it as a base layer for outdoor adventures, all on its own around the house, or for sleeping or movie night as pajamas. Available in 4 colors (wine red, navy blue, grey, and black) and sizes small - XXXL. Beautifully well made.

The downside? There’s a sizing conflict. Many reported they’re sized perfectly, while others insisted they run small, so you should order up a size or two.

6. Ekouaer Thermal Underwear Long Fleece Lined Winter Base Layering Set

Soft on the inside; smooth on the outside: These are medium thick and cute worn alone or superb underneath clothes, even reportedly under nice dresses (if it’s the right color with the right shoes/boots, the tapered leggings can look all right peeking out). Wear them for a cozy winter night in or any activity you enjoy outdoors.

It comes in 6 sizes and several colors including everyone’s favorite, purple. Ekouaer’s innovative fabric allows the body to retain heat and keep warm because it’s made of 47.5% cotton, 47.5% modal, and 5% spandex. It makes a truly perfect gift if you can get the sizing right.

The problem with these? More sizing drama. For most, they fit fine, but others reported they run way too small.

7. Avidlove Womens Soft Thermal Underwear Set Top & Bottom Long Johns Set PJS

Very well-made with pretty lace trim: These are warm enough to wear on their own when lounging around the house, or as a base layer when out and about on wintry days. Stretchy with a light compression to snuggle you in, making bulges appear slimmer and smoother. Wear as pajamas or even under jeans and boots -- the lower legs are flattering on their own, exposed above high heels or slippers, or tucked inside your fanciest boots.

Made of 95% modal and 5% spandex, the softness factor is over the top with these. Comes in a nicely presented, wrappable package ideal for gifting.

The downside is that some felt they were too small and tight, most likely due to the spandex. Others didn’t feel they provided as much warmth as other raved they did, and suggested another layer was necessary to stay warm.

8. Hottotties Women's Size Lux Scoop Neck L/s Top Plus

Quick-drying, bright, and stretchy: Plus-sized girls, you’re gonna love ‘em! These are absolutely gorgeous with super soft fabric, heat retaining technology to keep you nice and toasty, and they even have a set of low-set thumb holes in the sleeves to boost up the snuggliness a few more notches.

Available in 3 plus sizes and two bright color combos (Grey marl, which is grey with hot pink, and black, with is black with grey). Sizes are true to expected size (finally!) with happy customers to reflect it. Breathable, machine washable, and stretchable to 360 degrees in 60% acrylic and 40% viscose.

Now for the negatives: There don’t appear to be any as of yet. *Note: Do pay close attention when ordering. Some noted they received (and actually ordered) just the top of the set when they mistakenly believed they were ordering the whole set.

9. Smartwool Women's Merino 250 Baselayer One Piece

Uber cushy one-piece base layer:  You’ll stay snug as a bug in a rug in this onesie while skiing, hiking, door-to-door caroling, or ice skating all day. Silky Merino wool is interwoven with thermoregulation and odor resistance technology, breathability, and comfort-enhanced fibers. You can grab these in 5 sizes and 2 different colors. This adult onesie has a close-fitting hood and zippered bottom region for quick and easy stops at the ladies’ room.

The downside is that, once again, the sizes appear to be off. Some reported they run large. There is a size chart available in the pics provided.

10. Rocky Thermal Underwear for Women Cotton Knit Thermals Women's Base Layer Long John Set

Smooth, silky, and thick: So super cozy, you’ll surely want a set of these for the blusteriest of winter days. (In fact, you may as well get more than one so you’ll always have a clean set if one’s in the wash!)

An Amazon’s Choice product, this set of thermal undies is available in 12 eye-popping colors including teal, rust, navy, hot pink, and yellow. A range of 7 sizes is offered from X-Small to XXX-Large.  This winter underwear is comprised of 55% premium cotton, 45% polyester, blended into the ideal fabric of warmth, moisture wicking, and elasticity.

What’s the downside? Some disagreed with the majority and felt they didn’t provide enough warmth.

Winter Underwear Buying Guide

Best Moisture-Wicking Winter Underwear

For today’s purposes, choosing the best base layer possible is most important. Although some choices can be worn on their own indoors as pajamas or otherwise, the base layer of underwear for outdoor activity is the main focus. Moisture-wicking is a key factor in choosing your winter underwear, in order to keep that base layer dry.

The optimal fabric for the base is wool (or possibly silk, as it has a remarkable warmth-to-weight/thickness ratio), as mentioned above, the best of which is Merino (unless you can afford pricier options like cashmere, mohair, or Alpaca).

The second best base layer fabric is Cupro, followed by acrylic, nylon, lycra, spandex, polyester, or Polyguard type fabrics.

Best Lightweight Winter Underwear

Best Winter Underwear for Sensitive Skin

No products found.

Warmest Winter Underwear

Another top notch base layer can trap heat and keep winter chill at bay while facing the lowest of outdoor temps.

Trapping heat to keep the body warm while wicking sweat and moisture off away the body are two essential jobs of the base layers we discussed, blocking the chill of the winter as a result.