The Best Thermal Underwear For Men

If you just can't keep warm when cold weather hits, a solid set of thermal underwear might be just what the doctor ordered. Thermal underwear are form-fitting undergarments that utilize compressive fabrics to promote warmth retention and moisture-wicking, keeping you feeling cozy and dry in the cold. Plus, if you can't get enough of cold-weather sports like skiing, snowboarding, or sledding, a quality set of thermal underwear can help you enjoy the great outdoors without freezing your butt off. Read on to discover our top picks.

What To Look For

While doing our deep dive into the thermal underwear market, we tried to look for products that excelled in three key areas: warmth retention, moisture wicking, and compression. Any set of thermal underwear worth your money should offer at least one of these features handily. With this in mind, we feel Thermajohn’s complete set is the cream of the crop. This set is form-fitting without being too snug and utilizes durable fabrics that insulate your body heat. Alternatively, if you’re after a solid set of bottoms, you can’t go wrong with Devops’ thermal compression pants. Devops’ bottoms combine spandex and fleece to create a well-supported bottom specialized for folks with an active lifestyle. Read on to find out more about the rest of our favorite thermals.

Thermajohn Thermal Underwear

Cozy compression

Crafted with moisture-wicking fabric that stretches as you move, this complete set of thermal underwear can keep you warm and dry without bunching up.
Best Overall

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Thermajohn’s complete thermal underwear set offers just as much warmth retention and support as its competitors without a hefty price tag. Made with a polyester-spandex fabric blend, this set is as form-fitting as it is cozy. We also appreciate the attention to detail when it comes to moisture-wicking. This fabric works to keep you from getting chilly during activities in cold weather.

Pros:

  • Thermajohn offers this set in an eclectic array of color options.
  • The silky smooth fabric is so soft and pliable, it might make you forget you’re even wearing it.

Cons:

  • The bottoms might be a little long for men with shorter legs.

Icebreaker 200 Oasis LS Crewe

Kill the chill

Comprised of pure merino wool of the highest quality, this slim-fitting top is a must-have for staying warm during cold-weather activities.
Best Top

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Is there any better feeling than being wrapped up in cozy wool fabric when it’s chilly out? Icebreaker’s 200 Oasis long-sleeve top can give you that warm fuzzy feeling during all your cold-weather activities. We love that this slim-fitting cut can mould to the shape of your body without feeling too restrictive. The asking price is a little heftier than some of its competitors, but if you’re willing to pay for excellence, we think you’ll be satisfied with the undeniable quality on display here.

Pros:

  • We appreciate how much softer and less itchy this top is than comparable merino wool thermals.
  • This top sits at a happy medium between too restrictive and too baggy.

Cons:

  • If you’re after a thermal top that provides premium compression, you might want to look elsewhere.

Icebreaker Standard 175 Everyday Leggings

Warmth to waist

These merino wool thermal bottoms feature a reliable elastic waistband and flat-lock seams that aim to reduce chafing.
Best Bottoms

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Keeping your legs warm in cold weather is the key to feeling comfortable during outdoor activities. These leggings from Icebreaker are a smart choice for anyone trying to kill the chill while braving the elements. These 100% merino wool bottoms offer premium warmth retention along with flat-lock seams that help prevent chafing. With a breathable, lightweight construction, these bottoms can also prevent odor from rearing its ugly head.

Pros:

  • Its stretchy fabric can accommodate all kinds of body types.
  • Unlike bulkier polyester or spandex alternatives, the thin wool fabric is incredibly soft to the touch.

Cons:

  • The thin fabric is mighty comfortable, but it might make these bottoms less warming than some of their more compressive competitors.

Place and Street Cotton Thermal Underwear Set

Heating up

This classic cotton thermal set utilizes waffle-knit fabric specialized for warmth retention.
Best Cotton

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If you’re on the hunt for some of the best cotton thermals on the block, you can consider your search over thanks to Place and Street’s complete thermal set. With a cotton-polyester fabric blend, this waffle-knit thermal set provides warmth retention and comfort in equal measure. We also appreciate that this set aims to keep you dry with premium moisture-wicking technology. Plus, the classic look and feel of this set are hard to deny.

Pros:

  • Place and Street has a varied selection of color options, making it easy for you to mix and match your thermals.
  • We greatly appreciate the inclusive size options on offer here.

Cons:

  • If you’re looking for a snug fit, you should consider purchasing one size down.

Devops Thermal Compression Pants

Under pressure

These form-fitting fleece thermal bottoms will mould to your body and keep you warm where it counts.
Best Compression Bottoms

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Compression thermals offer a well-supported fit that complements active lifestyles, and these bottoms from Devops are some of the best we’ve seen on the market. With a fleece-spandex fabric blend, these thermals are as form-fitting as they are warming. Whether you’re looking for something to keep you warm on a chilly commute, or something to provide some extra support on the ski slope, Devops’ versatile thermal bottoms can get the job done.

Pros:

  • Unlike many of its competitors, Devops offers a version of these compression pants with pockets.
  • The soft fabric does a lot of work to prevent chafing during strenuous activities.

Cons:

  • The fit might be a bit too snug for some men’s liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the athletic benefits of wearing compression thermals?

Compression thermals are designed to optimize blood flow and oxygen to your muscles. Ideally, the compression works to enhance your athletic performance and offer support to your extremities.

What are the most common thermal underwear fabrics?

Thermal manufacturers utilize a wide variety of materials. Waffle-knit cotton thermals offer a great deal of warmth retention, while polyester-spandex blends provide compression and a form-fitting look. You should consider your ideal fit and feel before choosing a thermal material best suited to meet your needs.

About the Author

There's no better feeling than walking out the door in well-made clothes that make you look and feel great. Nick’s goal is to help readers feel that way every day. A true New Yorker, Nick is always up to date on the latest trends fresh off the runway. When he’s not writing about fashion, you can find him writing and producing music.

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