Men's thermal underwear is especially effective during intense physical activity. It can be worn in both winter and summer. However, it is much more commonly used in autumn and winter as a first-line garment.

Who are thermal clothing for?

Thermal underwear was created primarily to meet the needs of people who engage in physical activity outdoors in unfavorable weather conditions. This applies primarily to runners who train outdoors in autumn and winter, rather than on a treadmill, skiers, and mountain trekkers. In short, anyone who pushes their bodies to intense exercise in low temperatures. Why is thermal underwear specifically designed for them? Because it allows moisture to wick away, protecting the body from overheating. A hot, sweaty body and low outside temperatures are not a good combination. Thermal underwear, however, allows you to maintain thermal comfort in such conditions. It simultaneously protects against the cold and wicks away sweat, leaving the skin dry. It's worth noting that thermal underwear isn't just used in winter. It can prove just as useful in summer. Runners, for example, often choose thermal shirts, shorts, and leggings, especially those who cover very long distances. Thermal clothing protects their body from the risk of overheating and allows them to stay comfortable while running, even in bright sunlight.

Thermal clothing isn't just for professionals, though. It's also a great solution for recreational jogging or walking.

Thermal underwear and men's thermal clothing

Men's thermal underwear is often confused with thermal underwear. However, these are two completely different types of clothing. Men's thermal underwear is primarily designed to protect against the cold. Thermal clothing is designed to protect the body and prevent heat loss. Thermal underwear differs from thermal underwear primarily not in its superior insulation (although, of course, its performance is better in this regard), but in its lack of advanced moisture-regulating properties. Thermal clothing doesn't have such strong properties that would allow it to effectively wick moisture away. A men's thermal sweatshirt is more suitable for people who get cold, and for moderate or low activity levels. It certainly won't be a good first layer for a skier or runner. However, it's a great option for a walk in a mountain valley or an autumn sleepover in the forest.

What should ski underwear be made of?

Thermal underwear is primarily made from synthetic fibers. They do not absorb water while allowing it to wick away quickly. Underwear is most often made of polyamide and polyester. There are also garments enriched with natural fibers. Special types of wool, such as merino wool, are particularly popular. This thicker men's underwear material is ideal for winter mountain trekking, for example, and as clothing for skiers heading to high mountains. This type of clothing also features good thermal insulation – it is most often labeled WARM or X-WARM and is suitable for the most demanding workouts and activities.

The antibacterial properties of thermal underwear are also important. Men's underwear, in addition to being breathable, should also have the ability to absorb unpleasant odors and inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.

Choose comfort - we choose the best ski underwear for men

Thermal underwear should be carefully selected in terms of size. It shouldn't be too loose or too small. Instead, it should fit the body and create a tight barrier against the cold. The better the fit, the more effective its thermal insulation. Comfort is also a key factor, so it's always worth paying attention to functional cuts and the placement of ventilation panels in areas that produce the most sweat. It's also worth checking whether shirts and leggings feature protection for the shoulders, elbows, and knees, areas particularly susceptible to cold. Seamless men's underwear is an interesting solution, as it doesn't cause chafing or irritation. Flat seams are also becoming increasingly popular.

How to wear thermal clothing?

It's worth remembering that for clothing to fulfill its purpose, it must also be worn properly. It's all about combining thermal underwear with other layers. Cotton sweatshirts, T-shirts, or pants shouldn't be worn over thermal underwear. Unfortunately, cotton will simply absorb all the sweat wicked away by the underwear. A much better solution is to layer it with clothing made of technical materials, which also allow for rapid moisture wicking. For more demanding conditions, a softshell or hardshell jacket, for example, can be worn over a technical T-shirt.

See also: women's ski underwear