When it comes to long underwear, silk is clearly the most durable fiber. It wicks moisture away from the skin, making it comfortable to wear in many different climates. Not only that, but silk is also lightweight and anti-static. This makes it easy to pack in your carry-on or suitcase. People usually assume that wool is warmer than silk, but is it?
Merino Wool
When you want thermals to keep you warm, Merino wool is your best bet. Unlike synthetic materials, wool regulates temperature better than any other fabric, pulling moisture away from the skin and retaining warmth even when wet. Moreover, wool naturally repels odors. You can wear merino thermals under other layers for extra warmth and protection.
Merino thermals are comfortable and can keep you warm all day long. The Merino base layer is made from the finest raw materials and is very light. The lightweight 250-g merino is cool even on hot days, yet it traps warmth like nothing else. Moreover, the material never smells or feels wet.
Silk
The thermal properties of silk are unparalleled, making them an ideal choice for base layers because it's the thinnest material. The lightweight, insulating material feels comfortable next to the skin and wicks away moisture. Silk long underwear provides an effective layer of thermal warmth without adding bulk to your wardrobe. It also has a satiny feel that makes it a must-have piece for winter wardrobes.
Thermals are a great way to stay warm, but they can be expensive. You can buy thermals made of silk at almost any retail store for reasonable prices, but the best ones are made of 100% silk. Check out here for the warmest material for thermal underwear. They are also breathable, which keeps you cool while keeping your body warm.
Merino Blends
Merino blends are a great option for thermal layers. These garments are made to be lightweight and stretchy. They are also a great choice for wearing under your other clothing. A merino blend is a great choice for thermals because it provides the best balance of price, quality, and versatility.
Merino has the best heat-trapping properties compared to other fabrics, such as polyester. It regulates temperature better than other fabrics, which means that it keeps you warm in winter while staying cool during shoulder seasons. Silk, on the other hand, is not as efficient in controlling temperature, which makes it an inferior choice for thermals.
Merino wool is the best choice for thermals. It retains its insulation even after being wet, unlike other types of wool. It also has a smoother texture and is less itchy. Merino wool base layers vary in density, usually between 135g/m2 and 400g/m2. Lower-density base layers are suitable for high temperatures, while higher-density base layers are designed for colder climates. Higher-density base layers are too heavy for sports, however.
Cotton
Thermals are an essential part of winter wear, and silk is one of the best fabrics for the cold season. Unlike cotton, silk breathes and wicks moisture away from the body. This keeps you warm and dry, and silk also absorbs less moisture than wool. Thermals are also thin, which makes them easy to wear underneath clothing.
Thermal underwear should fit snugly and have four-way stretch. This type of fabric gives the wearer the widest range of mobility, and is the most comfortable to wear. Some thermals may also have added features, such as thumb holes in the sleeves. These can be very convenient when skiing or backpacking. Some also have pockets, hoods, and UV protection.
Synthetic Options
If you prefer a silk thermal but don't want to spend a lot of money, there are synthetic alternatives. They have many advantages over cotton, including being warmer, wicking away sweat, and being easy to care for. Unlike cotton, which tends to shrink when washed, synthetic thermals can be air-dried. They are also more lightweight than cotton and breathe better.