Thermal underwear is functional clothing designed for warming the body and winter sports. For the manufacture of textiles, polyester or polypropylene are used, which perfectly remove moisture.

Cotton, wool and other impurities are added to synthetic materials, which increase the extensibility and service life of the linen. The two main functions of thermal underwear are to retain heat and remove excess moisture from the body.

Types of thermal underwear

• This species is suitable for people with low or moderate physical activity who live in cold climates.

Heat-saving underwear helps to keep warm, since the air gap between the surface of the body and clothing is increased due to cellular or volumetric weaving of the fabric.

The air in it is heated to a temperature comfortable for the body, which does not decrease and does not allow a person to freeze.

• Moisture-wicking thermal underwear (functional). It removes excess moisture from the surface of the skin, so that the body temperature is kept at the right level.

It is made of synthetic materials that do not absorb liquid: the heated air is brought out through such a fabric, and the sweat evaporates without remaining on the clothes.

• thermal underwear combines the qualities and functions of the two previous types. Although air circulation decreases when heat is retained, and air exchange increases when excess moisture is removed, it is possible to achieve a balance between these two processes.

Manufacturers either increase the density of the moisture-wicking fabric, or reduce the thickness of the heat-saving one.

The most effective is two-layer underwear, the inner layer of which is made of moisture-wicking synthetics, and the outer layer is made of heat-saving or moisture-absorbing material (wool, cotton, synthetics, or a combination thereof).

Material

• natural fabrics they retain heat well and are comfortable for long-term wear, but they do not remove excess moisture well. Such underwear is suitable for everyday wear, sleep, long stay in the fresh air without movement.

The disadvantage of natural fabrics is that they wear out faster than synthetic ones, and wool can cause allergies.

• Synthetic fabrics do not cause allergies and are suitable for sports and outdoor activities. If you wear synthetic thermal underwear too often and for a long time, it can cause dry skin.
• mixed linen, which includes both synthetics and natural materials, is suitable for leisurely walks.

Thermal underwear properties

Modern manufacturers produce thermal underwear for men, women, teenagers and children, as well as unisex models:

• Three main types of children's thermal underwear are designed for active, semi-active and passive walks.
• Depending on the lifestyle, underwear for adults is designed for low, medium or high levels of physical activity.
• The choice depends on temperature and weather conditions: manufacturers offer models for cool, cold or very cold temperatures, for windy or snowy weather.

Since thermal underwear is only the first layer in a multi-layer system, without the right outerwear, its effectiveness will not be as high.

For intensive outdoor training, fishing or hunting, clothing is worn over the linen that is responsible for thermoregulation, and on top - a layer that protects from the wind.

The standard set of thermal underwear is a long-sleeved turtleneck or a T-shirt combined with trousers, leggings or shorts.

In addition to this equipment, you can pick up gloves, a thermal hat or balaclava, thermal socks, tights and warm insoles for winter shoes. There are also models of lower thermal underwear: men's and women's shorts, tops and T-shirts.

Thermal underwear for different sports has its own characteristics:

• Underwear for skiers has enhanced protection against hypothermia in the groin area.
• For surfers, quick-drying underwear is made.
• For figure skaters, especially thin, tight-fitting models are produced.

The distinctive features of thermal underwear include its low weight and volume. The fabric has an uneven density in different parts of the body: for example, it is thinner under the armpits, since it is in this place that the sweating is the most abundant.

Thermal underwear is multi-layered, and each layer fulfills its purpose:

• the bottom absorbs and removes excess moisture,
• the middle one takes her out,
• the top protects from the cold.

Another feature of thermal underwear is antimicrobial properties: some manufacturers add silver inclusions to the fabric, which eliminate microbes and unpleasant odors.

Separate impurities determine the additional characteristics of thermal underwear:

• Merino wool has natural antibacterial properties, which, unlike silver inclusions, will not wash out after washing. In addition, the wool of merino sheep does not absorb the smell of sweat.

• Silk in the composition provides a snug fit to the body and does not allow the skin to dry out.
• Cotton-blend linen has an anti-static effect, so it can be worn under a synthetic office suit.
• To increase the elasticity and wear resistance of thermal underwear, some manufacturers add elastane, lycra or spandex fibers to its composition.

In some situations, thermal underwear is indispensable:

• sports,
• winter fishing and hunting,
• cold windy winters.

The ability to keep warm, remove excess moisture, be invisible under clothes - the advantages of this type of underwear are obvious. In addition, some models include bamboo, which has antibacterial properties.

• Thermal underwear is not universal: each type of activity will require a separate piece of clothing, whether it's a walk or an intense outdoor workout.
• Difficulty in care. Care must be taken when washing laundry so that it lasts longer, does not fade or stretch. Thermal underwear has to be washed frequently, as it is quickly saturated with sweat.
• Price. Thermal underwear is not cheap, especially if you want to buy a quality product that will last for years.

How to choose thermal underwear

Choosing the right type of underwear should be based on the purposes for which it will be used and your lifestyle.

• For everyday wear, models made from thin cotton fabrics, such as microfiber, are suitable. Choose the right thickness depending on the season: thick underwear is suitable for winter, thinner for summer.

Long pants or leggings with a turtleneck are designed for winter cold; shorts and a t-shirt are suitable for the off-season.

• When choosing thermal underwear for winter fishing or hunting, give preference to models that retain heat. If you plan to be without movement for a long time, put on thermal underwear with wool.

• Sports thermal underwear removes excess moisture from the surface of the skin, but after 3-4 hours of training it is saturated with sweat. Some sports lines offer models designed for specific areas: chest, arms, underarms.
• For those who like skiing or snowboarding, hybrid thermal underwear is suitable, which retains heat and at the same time removes excess moisture. It combines polypropylene and natural materials - cotton or wool.

• For mountaineering, rafting, hiking and sleeping in, yachting, choose underwear made of synthetic materials so as not to sweat, because in such situations it is not always possible to change into clean clothes.
• When choosing children's thermal underwear, do not buy clothes for growth - choose the exact size for the period when the child will need it.

For active children over three years old, synthetic thermal underwear with the addition of cotton or wool or pure synthetics - linen made of polypropylene or polyester - is suitable.

• When trying on underwear, move around: bend over, sit down, raise and lower your arms. Make sure that you will be comfortable in the model you are going to buy when playing sports.

The best thermal underwear has the following characteristics:

• Does not restrict movement, but does not hang. For kayaking, it is advised to wear underwear that hugs the skin tightly, and in other cases, you can choose a size a little looser. Refer to the manufacturer's size chart.
• Does not increase body temperature, pleasant for the skin. Doesn't itch.

• Seamless or with flat seams on the outside of the garment. But the tags, on the contrary, are sewn on the outside.
• Does not stretch or slightly stretches when worn. After washing, it returns to its original shape. In some models, the fabric on the elbows and knees is reinforced so that the underwear does not wear out so quickly.
• During washing does not shed and is not painted.

Thermal underwear cannot be 100% made of natural materials alone - in this case it is considered just insulated clothing. In order for thermal underwear to perform its main functions, synthetic materials must be included in its composition.

How to use

The material and structure of the weaving linen require careful care and thorough cleaning.

• Washing is allowed in (delicate wash mode) or by hand: the temperature in both cases should not exceed 40 degrees.

Some manufacturers produce linen that can be washed at higher temperatures - information about this is indicated on the label.

• Be sure to turn brushed underwear inside out before washing.
• The use of rinse aids, conditioners and antistatic agents is acceptable.
• Frequent washing will not affect the life of your thermal underwear, so feel free to wash it after every hike or workout.

• Do not use bleach or detergents containing chlorine for washing: it destroys the structure of the fabric. It is better to take ordinary washing powder or laundry soap.
• Do not tumble dry or iron thermal underwear. It is unacceptable to give thermal underwear to dry cleaning.
• After washing, do not wring the laundry dry, but leave it to dry at room temperature, without using additional heat sources. Do not dry laundry in a dryer, over heaters or over a fire. It is better to lay out clothes on a flat surface.

Thermal underwear manufacturers

This type of clothing is represented on the Russian market by domestic and foreign companies.

The company offers men's and women's collections, which include t-shirts, shirts, tops, trousers. Women's models are made in bright colors, while men are offered discreet shades: blue, gray, black.

The range includes underwear for everyday use, mountaineering, running, skiing and tourism.

Craft

The Swiss company is considered the world leader in the production of thermal underwear. The company focuses on athletes and presents a wide range of textiles for men, women and children, as well as accessories (socks, leggings, gloves, wristlets, backpacks and bags).

The collections have thermal underwear for cool, windy and frosty weather. The company produces high-quality goods with flat seams, soft embossed thread, a large selection of colors.

Guahoo offers five options for thermal underwear depending on temperature conditions. The range includes models for daily wear, as well as for moderate and high physical activity.

The company is favorably distinguished from others by the development of thermal underwear for teenagers, taking into account mobility, rapid growth, body formation. The only disadvantage of Guahoo is the high price, which is not surprising given the quality and wide range.

A thermal underwear manufacturer from New Zealand uses Merino sheep's wool to create clothes. Clothing made from this material breathes easily and protects in cold weather. Merino wool is a light and soft material that is resistant to strong odors.

Linen made from such wool does not stick to the body, does not accumulate electricity and does not shrink after washing with proper care.

The only drawback of this material is that pellets appear on it over time. The company's collections include outerwear, underwear, socks for different weather conditions.

When several layers are combined, the effect of thermal underwear only intensifies, Icebraker garments successfully complement each other.

The Austrian company produces highly functional and comfortable thermal underwear, which is in demand throughout Europe. The company exports its products to Germany, Italy, Sweden, Russia and the Scandinavian countries.

The company offers clothes for winter and summer sports: running, cycling, outdoor activities. The range includes trousers, jackets, underwear and accessories for children and adults.

ODLO

The Swiss company produces sportswear and functional thermal underwear for sports and an active lifestyle.

The choice of clothing items is wide: thermal pants, underpants, t-shirts and shirts for men, children's sets of thermal underpants and long-sleeved thermal t-shirts for outdoor walks.

ODLO products are of high quality, elasticity, lightness and convenience. The company cares about the environment, constantly introduces new environmentally friendly materials into production.

Clothes are made in Turkey, from where they are exported to Finland, Russia and other Nordic countries. Thermoform, like other manufacturers of thermal underwear, offers men's, women's and children's models: thermal suits, underpants, t-shirts, hats and socks.

The production uses not only synthetic materials (polyester, polypropylene, nylon), but also natural cotton and wool, thermal underwear from which is suitable even for small children.

X-Bionic offers a wide range of reliable thermal underwear for men, women and children, for any kind of activity: intensive training, motorcycle and motor sports, fishing and hunting, hiking, sports games. The only disadvantage of X-Bionic thermal underwear is its high cost.

Russian manufacturers of thermal underwear are also developing: Nova Tour, Red Fox, SiberWolf, Termoline, and the prices for underwear from domestic manufacturers are democratic.

If you choose the right thermal underwear depending on the type of physical activity and air temperature, you will feel light and comfortable, and frost and heat will not interfere with your enjoyment of being outdoors.

Thermal underwear is one of the main elements in clothing for sports and outdoor activities, designed to control your heat transfer. How well thermal underwear is chosen largely determines how comfortable you will be during sports, and hence what results you can achieve.

Together with an AlpIndustry expert Yura Serebryakov Let's figure out how to choose thermal underwear that suits your conditions.

The principle of layering in clothing

In clothing for sports and outdoor activities, it is customary to adhere to the principle of layering, or, in other words, the concept of three layers. Thermal underwear is the first, base layer and is designed to control heat transfer. Thermal underwear should fit snugly to the body (it is often called a second skin) to ensure proper thermoregulation, but at the same time not squeeze muscles or restrict movement. Thermal underwear is followed by a second, middle layer of clothing designed to keep warm, for example, a fleece or a down sweater. Then comes the third, outer layer, which also brings out excess moisture, allows the body to breathe under clothing and protects from external influences, precipitation and wind. For example, a jacket with a Gore-Tex membrane.

In order for the equipment to work correctly and create comfortable conditions, and not cause inconvenience, you must carefully choose each layer and clearly understand for what tasks and conditions you choose clothes. Let's start by choosing a base.

What is thermal underwear and what is it for?

The main function of thermal underwear is to control heat transfer by removing moisture. When you sweat during intense movement, thermal underwear does not accumulate sweat in itself, but removes excess moisture from the body and prevents you from “cooking” under your clothes. If you find yourself in cold conditions and / or do not move actively, thermal underwear helps to keep you warm. It is this functionality that distinguishes specially designed thermal underwear from ordinary cotton and synthetic clothing.

For the manufacture of thermal underwear, technological synthetic fibers, high-quality soft wool, most often merino wool, or a combination of these materials are used. The cut of thermal underwear often involves a combination of materials with different composition, density and properties (ventilation, insulation, muscle support) in different areas.

Composition: thermal underwear made of wool, synthetics and combined materials

Wool, in general, has better thermal insulation properties than synthetics, but absorbs moisture more actively. With intense loads (running, freeride), this will become a noticeable disadvantage: a person sweats a lot, thermal underwear absorbs a large amount of moisture, which does not have time to be removed outside and lingers in clothes - a person begins to “cook” and experience discomfort. Therefore, for intense loads, it is preferable to choose synthetic thermal underwear that will properly remove moisture and control heat transfer, preventing overheating and hypothermia. If you are going to have less intense activities, passive rest, being in very low temperatures, you are looking for thermal underwear for the city or you get cold quickly, give preference to a base layer made of wool, with its good thermal insulation properties.

Please note that in some cases, wool thermal underwear can cause irritation, especially on sensitive baby skin. Therefore, we recommend that adults try on clothes before buying, and for children, choose synthetic models.

Men's, women's and children's thermal underwear

In general, women's and men's thermal underwear does not have big differences from each other. The cut of specialized female models takes into account the peculiarities of the female figure and, since girls usually freeze more, it has more insulated zones.

For the manufacture of children's thermal underwear, synthetics are more often used, because wool can cause discomfort to the sensitive skin of the child. As a rule, the main task of children's thermal underwear is not to remove moisture, but to keep warm, so it is usually denser than "adult" models.

In general, models of thermal underwear differ from each other in composition, the presence of compression properties, the recommended temperature regime and design features. When choosing, you should be guided by several points:

1. Intensity of exercise / high, medium or low activity
2. Temperature Range
3. Your individual cold tolerance

Temperature range of thermal underwear

As a rule, manufacturers indicate the recommended temperature and preferred activities in the title or description of the product. For example, the Swiss brand Odlo divides its thermal underwear models into several lines:

• The ultra-light thermal underwear of the Cool line is designed for the hottest weather.
• Models marked Light are designed for summer sports, they are lightweight clothes made of thin fabric, the main task of which is to remove moisture from the body
• Warm - insulated thermal underwear for cold weather and winter sports
• Models marked X-Warm are designed for the coldest temperatures

The choice of thermal underwear depending on the activity and intensity of the load

First of all, when choosing thermal underwear, you should focus on the degree of activity: whether it will be high, with intense constant loads (freeride, trail running), medium (mountaineering, hiking) or low (walking in the city, fishing). The main task of thermal underwear for outdoor activities and sports is to control heat transfer due to the timely removal of moisture from the body in order to prevent overheating or hypothermia. With low activity, sweating is less, so the main task of thermal underwear for passive relaxation is to keep warm.

For low activity it is recommended to choose thermal underwear made of wool, for example, Bergans. It retains heat better than synthetics and does not lose its properties over time, it is well suited for everyday wear. It is also worth considering synthetic thermal underwear. Its advantages are density, good moisture removal and ease of care.

thermal underwear for outdoor activities and sports can be divided into compression and non-compression. Due to compression, muscle support is provided, blood circulation is stimulated - the muscles work correctly and are not overloaded. Such thermal underwear, as a rule, has a zonal design (X-Bionic, The North Face). Each zone of clothing is responsible for a specific process: improved moisture removal (under the arms and in the abdomen), enhanced heat retention (in the chest, lower back, shoulders), etc. With low activity, compression creates discomfort. High activity non-compression base layers are usually synthetic (Odlo, Arcteryx, The North Face) or a synthetic/wool blend (Peak Performance) and work best when you are moving. By the way, as a basic, universal thermal underwear (or, if you are buying thermal underwear for the first time), Peak Performance models are almost ideal: in areas with increased sweating, synthetics with their good moisture-wicking properties are used, and in areas that freeze faster than others, wool is used with its ability to keep warm.

Generally, for hiking, trekking and mountaineering suitable thermal underwear of medium or high density, with good breathability and without compression. You can take two sets for climbing: one for climbing / assault, the second, more insulated, for changing at the base camp (or as a backup option). For winter mountaineering and high-altitude ascents, as well as for winter expeditions, Power Stretch thermal underwear can be considered: it is designed for low temperatures and can even be used as a middle layer.

For skiing, on prepared slopes or off-piste, as well as trail running and running training, you should choose compression thermal underwear. It will support the muscles and will stimulate blood circulation, which is important with constant movement and intense exercise. High levels of moisture wicking and breathability are also important for these sports. thermal underwear for winter sports, as a rule, has a zonal design - a combination of zones with insulation (for example, in the shoulders, chest and lower back), reinforcement (for example, in places of increased wear, in the elbow area) and ventilation zones (in places of increased sweating). base layer for summer activities will have a lower density to speed up the removal of moisture from the body.

Manufacturers regularly develop models for specific sports: taking into account the specifics of loads, their average intensity, as well as seasonality. However, the choice of thermal underwear is a very individual process. It depends on your personal characteristics (how you tolerate the cold), your activity in a particular sport. For some it is cold in the city at -10°C even in Power Stretch thermal underwear and a puff, for others a model with medium insulation will be enough for a harsh winter expedition. Someone prefers to have a separate set of thermal underwear for each type of activity, the other will choose 1-2 sets that are as versatile as possible for all occasions.

Thermal underwear options for skiing, off-piste skiing and ski touring

Options for thermal underwear for mountaineering

Thermal underwear options for trail running

Sports activities in winter are impossible without properly selected clothes, which should be warm enough to protect the body from severe frosts and piercing winds, but at the same time comfortable enough not to hamper or restrict movement. Therefore, many choose thermal underwear! Which thermal underwear to choose synthetic or natural? Maybe a combination option? Let's take a look at the pros and cons below!

Why thermal underwear?

It is almost impossible to achieve such an effect without the use of high-quality thermal underwear, which retains heat and provides moisture removal. Moreover, it is the second point that is key, because during physical exertion, profuse sweating is inevitably observed, which, when using ordinary clothes, leads to wetting and an increase in the feeling of cold.

Just this problem is solved by thermal underwear, removing moisture from the body and at the same time remaining dry itself. Outwardly, it does not have serious differences from the traditional, designed for everyday wear, and it is not visible under clothing.

Natural or synthetic thermal underwear?

Depending on the material, thermal underwear can be natural (wool, cotton) or synthetic (polyester, polypropylene). Very often you can find the advice of various experts who categorically do not recommend buying underwear made from natural materials. This is argued by the fact that cotton with wool, although they have high thermal insulation qualities, are not able to solve the problem of removing moisture that is absorbed into the fabric, dries for a long time and aggravates the effect of frost.

But is this statement true for absolutely all types of thermal underwear made from natural fabrics? Let's try to understand this and find out what are the features of clothing made from artificial and natural fabrics, for which cases each of these options is more suitable.

Synthetic thermal underwear for winter!

This category includes thermal underwear made from materials such as polyester and polypropylene, as well as mixed materials based on them. Spandex, nylon or elastane are most often used as impurities. The industry produces a wide variety of synthetic fabrics that differ in the nuances of the composition, the type of weaving, the strength and elasticity, the level of thermal insulation, the intensity of moisture removal: Eclipse, Coolmax, Polartec, PowerStretch and others.

Among the main advantages of thermal underwear made of synthetics, it is worth highlighting:

• comfortable wearing, pleasant feeling for the skin;
• compactness and lightness;
• high wear resistance, preservation of original qualities and appearance for a long time;
• ease of washing and care in general.

But there are also some negative points:

• an unpleasant smell, to eliminate which it is necessary to wash after one day of wearing;
• use in the production of artificial fibers based on petroleum products.

In winter conditions, there can be various problems with thermal underwear!

When playing sports, a person inevitably begins to sweat, and a peculiar microclimate begins to form between his skin and linen, characterized by a high level of humidity.

This moisture begins to condense on clothing, since moist and warm air masses always go to where the temperature and humidity of the environment are lower.

If traditional clothing absorbs all this moisture, sticks to the body and then dries painfully for a long time, then in the case of synthetic thermal underwear it happens differently: moisture passes over the surface of artificial fibers, but is not absorbed into them.

Warm, moisture-saturated air, due to the difference in temperature and humidity levels, is pushed outward, passing through microscopic gaps between the fibers.

It is also important to note that polyester with polypropylene practically does not absorb moisture (maximum - 0.4 percent of its own weight), ensuring its removal to the outer layer and a fairly uniform distribution over the surface, from where it naturally evaporates into the environment.

Manufacturers are constantly working to improve the way sweat is wicked away from the body, developing new designs, weaving options, using various material combinations. Some non-standard and innovative solutions are constantly appearing, experiments are being carried out with the introduction of zones, the structure of which differs from the rest of the clothing.

It is also worth noting that professional models of thermal underwear are additionally processed with special chemical compounds, which improves the hydrophilic properties of the material and reduces the time to remove moisture to the outside. Usually, manufacturers declare that the substances used are completely safe for humans, but it is still not recommended to wear such underwear all the time.

Natural thermal underwear for winter!

Most of the negative reviews about thermal underwear made from natural materials relate to products that are made using cotton or ordinary wool. Such clothes really do not remove moisture in the best way, get very wet and do not dry for a long time, which ultimately negates its heat-saving properties.

However, modern high-quality natural thermal underwear is made mainly from a special type of wool obtained from merino. This is a special breed of sheep of the fine-fleece type, the main advantage of which is the highest quality of combed wool, consisting of thin soft fibers. For many people, it was a real revelation that excellent thermal underwear can be made from wool, but in this case it really is.

Its main advantages include:

• light weight;
• not susceptible to moisture absorption;
• sufficiently fast removal of moisture, preservation of thermal insulation qualities even when wet;
• high resistance to discoloration and pilling;
• absolute environmental friendliness: natural fibers are safe for both human health and the environment, as they are produced exclusively from renewable resources that are easily recycled or disposed of.

Among the shortcomings can be noted:

• slower drying process compared to the synthetic version;
• the existence of the possibility of shrinkage of linen after washing.

The principle of operation of natural thermal underwear in winter!

The principle of operation of thermal underwear based on merino wool is fundamentally different from synthetic, since wool absorbs incomparably more moisture - up to 36 percent of its own weight.

However, this specific feature does not prevent the desired process from being carried out: moisture is gradually removed to the outer surface of the thermal underwear, from where it evaporates under the influence of environmental factors.

This happens primarily due to the core of the hairs, the cortex, through which the absorbed water is gradually brought to the surface due to the difference in humidity inside and outside.

Of course, in this case, many may wonder if the high level of moisture absorption of wool does not cause an unpleasant feeling of wet clothes. This usually does not happen except in some cases:

• if the athlete has too much sweating, but then the synthetic underwear simply will not have time to cope with their duties;
• if, due to excessive humidity in the environment, the laws of physics simply stop working, usually forcing internal moisture to come out.

It is interesting to note that, despite the high hydrophilicity of wool, the outer parts of the hairs have water-repellent properties due to the presence of a layer of natural lanolin on them. Thanks to this, even when wet, thermal underwear made of merino wool does not stick to the body and the athlete does not have the feeling that he is “wet to the skin”.

At the same time, as noted above, with especially intense sweating, neither synthetics nor wool can ensure rapid moisture removal, but in woolen underwear it will be much more comfortable. A certain role in this is also played by such a phenomenon as the heat of sorption, which implies the release of a certain amount of heat by the wool when wet, which is not observed when using artificial fibers.

Combined thermal underwear!

Thermal underwear made from a combination of synthetic and natural fibers is quite common, which combines the qualities of both the first and the second. This garment wicks moisture well and keeps you warm. The positive and negative aspects of combined thermal underwear depend on a number of factors, primarily on the proportion in which the components are used. In general, such underwear is usually an excellent option for those who do not have any special requirements and want to get a versatile option for various occasions.

In addition to the type of material used in the production of linen, in the selection process, attention should be paid to such indicators as the density and weight of the fabric. It is quite simple to determine, choose in a particular case: the lower the temperature and the less active the loads, the heavier and denser the linen should be. And vice versa.

Most manufacturers use special markings to facilitate the choice of buyers:

• Microweight - for intense loads in warm weather, well suited, for example, for running in positive temperatures.
• Lightweight is a good choice for training during the beginning of cold weather.
• Midweight is the golden mean. Such underwear is suitable for active activities in frosty weather or a more relaxed pastime in relatively warm weather.
• Heavyweight is the choice of those who go in for mountaineering, are fond of hiking in the winter.
• Polar weight - such underwear will not allow you to freeze even in the most severe frosts.

Also, manufacturers can indicate the temperature conditions under which this or that thermal underwear is created:

• Cool - for wearing in the cold;
• Light - focused on cool weather;
• Warm - better to wear in warm weather;
• Extrawarm is indispensable in hot weather.

The right size is the key to comfort

When choosing thermal underwear that will be used for winter training, it is critical to determine your size correctly. It is on this that it will largely depend on how efficiently it will work, that is, to ensure the removal of moisture and warm in frosty weather. The correct size will be in the case when the underwear fits the figure tightly, repeating the contours of the body in detail and without forming any folds or wrinkles.

In order not to make a mistake with the choice, it is necessary to make a fitting without fail. Putting on the thing you like, you should actively move, squat, wave your arms and legs. At the same time, underwear should not sag anywhere, gather in folds, bulge out or outlive some part of the body, there should not be any discomfort in it.

Don't skimp on thermal underwear!

Of course, it is not necessary to act on the basis of the principle “the more expensive the better” and buy the most expensive underwear, but the statement that cheap cannot be of high quality works one hundred percent in this case. This fact must be taken for granted, and not try to deceive yourself.

The fact is that the production of high-quality thermal underwear is carried out exclusively from high-tech expensive materials, and the actual technology of its tailoring is very expensive. All this is ultimately reflected in the price of the finished kit. And there is no point in spending money on some cheap thermal underwear, since it will not be able to provide the expected effect.

Thermal underwear manufacturer's choice!

Today, there are many sports brands on the market that specialize exclusively in the production of thermal underwear or make it in addition to their main products. In our country, the following brands are most popular:

• Craft is a Swedish company that has been manufacturing thermal underwear for almost four decades. It offers a wide range of products in various price categories.
• Norveg is one of the most demanded brands of thermal underwear among domestic buyers. It produces seven series of underwear, mainly in the price category above the average.
• Red Fox is a Russian company that produces two types of clothing (thin and thick) in the middle price category.
• Guahoo is a Finnish brand, one of the first to introduce its products to the domestic market. It produces a wide variety of thermal underwear, designed for different levels of physical activity and different temperature conditions. The cost is above average.
• Comazo is a German brand specializing in the manufacture of budget thermal underwear. This product is more suitable for everyday wear than for active training.

When choosing thermal underwear, you should focus primarily not on its appearance or cost, but on quality and functionality. Only in this case, it will ensure effective removal of moisture and will not allow to freeze during cold weather.

Along with other types of sports equipment, special thermal clothing for training plays an important role in sports. Since playing sports entails increased sweating, there are increased requirements for sportswear.

Thermal underwear is a special type of clothing that can keep warm in cold weather and remove moisture from the body when. It prevents heat loss and hypothermia of the body, protecting it from possible colds. In other words, thermal underwear does not allow you to freeze or sweat.

Woolen underwear has some similar properties, but it is fragile and wears out quickly. Invented not so long ago, synthetic materials are superior to wool in terms of heat saving and moisture removal.

Microfiber, lycra, polypropylene, fleece, polyester, coolray and 3D lycra are manufactured using modern technologies and are a material with a complex structure that perfectly absorbs moisture and releases it.

Thermal underwear with the addition of natural fibers removes moisture a little worse, but it is more pleasant to the body. Some types of thermal clothing are made from different types of fabrics, and thermal underwear for various sports has its own characteristics.

Varieties of thermal clothing

Different types of thermal underwear are used for sports in cold weather: for hockey, figure skating, skiing, mountaineering, windsurfing and cycling.

For example, skaters need thin thermal underwear, surfers - quick-drying, skiers - with protection against hypothermia, especially in the groin area.

Thermal clothing includes:
• thermo ;
• thermal pants;
• thermal shorts;
• thermal jumper;
• thermal overalls;
• thermal suits;
• thermal dresses;
• thermal body;
• thermo ;
• thermo-leggings;
• thermal tights;
• thermal gloves;
• thermal scarves.

Properties of thermal clothing

Thermal clothing is not only made from a special kind of materials, it is also created according to certain rules. The cut of thermal clothing is usually anatomical, that is, it completely repeats the shape of the body, and the seams are external and flat.

This is what protects against chafing, while allowing you to dynamically move your arms and legs during active physical exertion. Exclusive brands produce thermal clothing that creates the effect of a second skin, that is, as close as possible to the body.

The principle of layering in the manufacture of thermal clothing allows you to achieve the desired effect. As a rule, sports thermal clothing consists of three layers: the bottom layer absorbs moisture; medium - retains heat and removes moisture to the outside; the upper protects against adverse climatic and weather conditions.

How to choose thermal clothing for sports

The choice of thermal underwear depends on the functional purpose of clothing. If thermal underwear for everyday wear should warm, then sports thermal clothing should first of all cope with the removal of moisture from the body, and only then - if necessary - warm.

That is why everyday thermal clothing consists mainly of wool and a small part of synthetic fibers, and sports thermal underwear has minor inclusions of natural fibers and is sewn from synthetic materials.

Another function of sports thermal clothing is to eliminate unpleasant odors, for which silver ions and ceramic particles are used in the fabric. If thermal underwear is chosen incorrectly, the benefits of sportswear will be completely leveled.

When choosing thermal clothing for sports, you need to take into account the temperature regime. In summer, thermal underwear is taken entirely from synthetic fabrics with enhanced moisture removal function - such underwear is suitable for water sports. For winter types, multi-layer linen or fabric with the inclusion of natural fibers is necessary.

In enclosed spaces there is no wind and the temperature regime is constant, which makes it possible to use thermal clothing only with the function of moisture removal. If outdoors, you need to take into account the strength of the wind and different temperature conditions.

For such cases, underwear with wind protection (usually marked Windstopper or Windproof) is suitable.

The degree of physical activity also determines the choice of sports thermal underwear, which is selected depending on low, moderate or.

Caring for thermal clothing

If you are in doubt about choosing the right size, take a smaller one. Thermal underwear stretches well, and thanks to flat seams it is invisible under clothes. Thermal underwear is washed either in a machine or by hand at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees.

Detergents with chlorine and bleach are not recommended. Thermal clothing should not be wrung out, except with your hands and lightly. And, of course, you can not iron.

High-quality thermal underwear has no restrictions on the number of washes, it does not shrink or stretch. It is recommended to wash thermal clothing when playing sports often, since in a contaminated state it will not be able to fully remove moisture and perform other functions.

Thermal clothing during fitness allows you to maintain a good microclimate of the skin and keep it dry. A real thermal thing does not let moisture in from the outside and does not even change color when water gets on it.

Thermal clothing for weight loss

To lose those extra pounds, you need to sweat regularly in the gym. Often used for slimming underwear with a sauna effect.

Thermal slimming clothing can speed up the process, especially if neoprene clothing is used. However, thermal underwear of this kind requires careful use and is recommended only for healthy people.

Benefits of using neoprene thermal clothing

• Thermal underwear usually acts precisely on the desired zones, which are difficult to correct with the help of sports and. There is a kind of local stimulation of the processes necessary for weight loss in the area, and the back side.
• Thermal clothing activates fluid circulation, eliminating congestion in body fat and reducing the volume of fat cells. Lipocytes begin to produce energy, and their volume decreases, which entails a decrease in and.

• If applied under special thermal clothing, then you can quickly feel the disappearance of the “orange peel” in problem areas. Active substances designed to fight cellulite increase their effect under the influence of a thermal effect.
• If you regularly exercise for 40 minutes in neoprene clothing and apply nutrients (creams with hyaluronic acid, vitamins A and C, retinol), then the effect of fitness can be compared to a salon - such an activity increases skin elasticity. But you can use neoprene shorts and T-shirts for no more than two hours a day.

• Exercising in thermal clothing can be a test for the heart and blood vessels: clothing with a sauna effect doubles the load on the heart, dilating the vessels and increasing blood flow to the heart. Therefore, it is better not to use thermal underwear in the presence of problems of the cardiovascular system.
• Neoprene clothing can cause swelling of the reflex zones, as fluid can accumulate in areas under the clothing.
• Despite thermal clothing made of "breathable" materials and antibacterial impregnations, the condition of the skin must be monitored when using thermal underwear. Scratches, cuts, rashes and dermatitis rule out training in thermal clothing.
• Thermal clothing increases sweating, which leads to dehydration if the body's fluid reserves are not replenished in time. You can not wear several pieces of clothing with a thermal effect for training and you need to drink plenty of water.

• Neoprene T-shirts can be dangerous for the female breast, since prolonged squeezing increases the risk of mastopathy, and an increase in body temperature under a neoprene T-shirt can cause problems with the mammary glands.

Thermal clothing by itself does not break down fat, it only helps to reduce body volume in the right places in combination with exercise and proper nutrition. Thermal clothing for sports requires compliance with specific rules for wearing and caring for it.

Failure to comply with these rules will simply nullify all the thermal functions of clothing.

Thermal underwear is a functional underwear, the function of which is to provide the human body with a comfortable thermal regime. Initially, this type of special underwear was developed for army special forces, but gradually thermal underwear began to be used not only in the army. Extreme athletes, in whom intense physical activity caused an increase in body temperature and active sweating against the background of adverse environmental conditions, were the first to appreciate all the benefits and advantages of thermal underwear. Subsequently, this underwear has become an integral attribute of the equipment of most professional athletes and lovers of active sports. At the moment, thermal underwear is presented in a wide range in specialized stores for sports and tourism, and anyone who wants to feel comfortable while doing fitness or active leisure can afford to buy it.

Many ordinary people mistakenly believe that the main functions of thermal underwear are to keep warm and warm the body. This statement is only partly true, since the main task of such underwear is to remove sweat from the body, which is released during fitness training and other intense loads. And in addition to this function, thermal underwear provides comfort to the body, warming in cold weather or cooling in a hot environment.

Depending on the additional functions of thermal underwear, it is divided into 3 types:

• Summer, designed for fitness in the gym or outdoors from April to October at an ambient temperature of +10 to +35 degrees.
• Universal. This underwear can be used during any outdoor physical activity in autumn, winter and spring, if the ambient temperature ranges from -10 to +10 degrees.
• Winter, designed for physical activity in the open air at temperatures from 0 to -30 degrees. It will be warm and comfortable not only for skiing or skating, but also for just walking on a cold day or fishing on the river.

The special functionality of thermal underwear is achieved due to the material from which it is made. For tailoring underwear for physical activity, the following synthetic fabrics are used:

• polypropylene.

It does not get wet, but is able to efficiently remove moisture. Thermal underwear made of polypropylene dries in a few minutes right on the body, so it is very convenient to carry out active fitness training in it;

• polyester.

In terms of its functional characteristics, this material is slightly inferior to polypropylene, but it is softer. Polyester underwear is pleasant to the body and durable;

• polyamide.

Seamless thermal underwear is sewn from this material, which is lightweight and smooth;

• elastane.

These synthetic fibers are added to the composition of the fabric to give the product strength. Underwear, which contains elastane, stretches well. It is convenient to carry out fitness classes in it, aimed at stretching or including elements of stretching.

In the production of thermal underwear, natural fabrics can also be used, for example:

• wool.

Wool warms well if fitness training is carried out outside in the cold season, and its villi gently massage the skin, increasing blood circulation;

• cotton.

Cotton threads in their pure form are practically not used in the production of fabrics for thermal underwear, since cotton quickly absorbs and retains moisture for a long time. Most often, cotton threads in the composition of the fabric are combined with synthetic ones. Pure cotton underwear can be used in cases where physical activity does not involve active activities that provoke profuse sweating;

• silk.

This natural fabric, like cotton, is not used in its pure form, but is combined with synthetic threads.

The texture of the fabric also matters in the functionality of thermal underwear. The special interlacing of the threads makes it possible to obtain a fabric having from 1 to 3 layers. In addition, using different weaving techniques, it is possible to obtain zones of different textures on linen, which provide maximum comfort in places of the greatest or least sweating on the body during physical exertion.

Single-layer fabrics are usually used for summer thermal underwear, which should pass air well, cool the body, remove sweat and dry quickly. Two-layer fabrics are used for sewing versatile linen, which can both remove moisture and warm at the same time. Usually, the upper, warming layer resembles cells or honeycombs, through which the moisture released by the body during fitness training is evenly distributed over the entire surface of the underwear and dries quickly. Three-layer fabrics are usually used when sewing thermal underwear, the characteristics of which include an antibacterial effect. From the point of view of hygiene, it is indispensable for tourists and climbers, who often do not have the opportunity to change underwear after physical exertion. The antibacterial properties of thermal underwear can be achieved due to the content of special granules in the third layer of the fabric, which are washed off after 3-5 washes, or by weaving a thin silver thread into the material. Linen with silver thread retains its antibacterial properties throughout the entire period of operation.

Rules for choosing thermal underwear for fitness

So that thermal underwear does not cause discomfort during intensive fitness and performs its functions efficiently, you need to choose it, guided by the following rules:

• the size of underwear must match the parameters of the body. This underwear should fit snugly, but at the same time, not hinder movement;
• the characteristics of thermal underwear must match the ambient temperature and the intensity of physical activity;
• it is advisable to choose seamless thermal underwear or such models in which the seams and labels are on the outside in order to protect the skin from chafing.