In winter, you always want to be additionally insulated. Now there are many brands of thermal underwear for example: Asics, Arena, Mizuno, Forward etc. In order for it to serve us and perform its functions, it is necessary to choose it correctly. The difficulty lies in the fact that it is necessary to choose underwear for specific purposes, since thermal underwear is different for each type of activity. It is also very important in what weather conditions you will wear it.
What is thermal underwear and its purpose
For people involved in sports, both professionals and amateurs,thermal underwear is a basic necessity. It has unique properties to retain heat and remove moisture; it can perform only one of these functions or combine both.
In appearance, thermal underwear resembles ordinary underwear. It is very thin and lightweight, pleasant to the touch and has antibacterial properties that reduce the chance of unpleasant odors from prolonged wear.
How to choose thermal underwear
It is very important to make the right choice of the bottom layer of clothing, as it directly contacts the skin and your comfort depends on it.
First, you need to choose the right size. When putting on your underwear, it should not sit on you like a bag, it should be elastic and completely fit your body, as if to create the effect of a “second skin”. The seams should be flat, as with raised seams, linen can chafe the skin, leading to discomfort, and labels should be brought out to the outside.
Secondly, first decide for what purpose you need thermal underwear.
There are three main types of thermal underwear - moisture-wicking, heat-saving and combined.
Choose moisture-wicking thermal underwear for running, cycling for winter sports. It is made only from special types of synthetics. Thanks to its unique composition, microfibers absorb the sweat that is released, remove it through the fabric and allow it to evaporate without leaving an odor.
For activities such as mountaineering, long winter hikes, etc., the heat should not be removed with sweat. To do this, it is better to purchase a combined thermal underwear that combines heat-saving and moisture-removing functions.
If you need underwear for everyday wear, winter fishing, trips to nature, then give preference to warming thermal underwear. Such underwear retains heat better, thereby preventing the body from hypothermia in cold weather at low physical exertion.
Also, thermal underwear is made from different materials. It can be composed of natural fibers, mainly wool, cotton, or synthetic, polyester and polypropylene. Manufacturers try to combine different types of fabrics. For example, the warmest thermal underwear is made of synthetic materials with the addition of wool.
How to properly care for thermal underwear
If you want your linen to serve you for a long time, then you need to properly care for it. For washing, the water should not be too hot, as the thermal underwear material can lose its essential qualities. The optimum temperature is 40C. You can wash it manually or in a typewriter in "gentle mode". Do not squeeze the thermal underwear, just let the water drain. Drying hot is strictly prohibited (ironing, hanging on batteries, etc.).
Before washing, pay attention to your thermal underwear, as on some underwear, manufacturers may give additional recommendations for caring for their product.