Some people think that thermal underwear is designed only for winter sports, physical activity, military and training missions. However, such kits are also suitable for everyday use. In today’s article, we will tell you about men’s thermal underwear.
There is an opinion that thermal underwear is designed only for winter sports, physical activity, performing military and training tasks. However, such kits are also suitable for everyday use. In today’s article we will tell you about men’s thermal underwear.
Sets of men’s thermal underwear: the main features
In order for such clothes to perform their functions, it is important to adhere to the rules of three layers – to combine things in such a way that they are interconnected.
- Thermal underwear is the base layer that wicks away moisture and keeps the body dry. This way you can control the heat transfer.
- Fleece or a mix of synthetic and natural materials – keeping you warm and transferring moisture to a third layer.
- Membrane garments – an outer layer that protects against harsh weather conditions.
If one of the layers is not up to the task, the effectiveness of the other clothing from the above categories will be reduced.
As a rule, thermal underwear fabrics have a cellular structure. The lower cells, which come into contact with the body, wick moisture away, and the upper cells, which distribute it to the surface and help it evaporate. Kits come in single and double layers, fleece and stretch. The outfit includes long-sleeved leggings and sweatshirts, and there are one-piece styles. The set may also include socks.
How thermal clothing sets protect against freezing
The purpose of thermal underwear is to keep you warm. To do this, the body needs to stay dry, as moisture takes up heat and provokes freezing. In conditions of cold the body will try to regulate the temperature and sweat will be generated as a result. When a person wears normal warm clothing, the moisture does not evaporate properly. As a result of moisture coming into contact with the cold, the body loses heat, the person feels uncomfortable and freezes.
To wick away moisture efficiently, it’s a good idea to buy thermal underwear made of wool or synthetic material. Cotton is less effective.
The secret of keeping warmth is also the presence of an air pocket in the fibres. Thanks to such a solution, the thermal suit protects from cold and prevents the loss of heat. Such clothes are elastic, tight and do not constrain movements.
Types of fabrics for thermal underwear
For the manufacture of such clothing, as a rule, three types of fabrics are used.
Synthetic .Optimal for bad weather conditions. The combination of nylon, spandex, polyester and lycra fabrics is used to retain heat. These synthetic materials are also very effective at dissipating moisture. Synthetic cold weather suits are among the most popular choice of the buyers, considering criteria such as price and quality.
Wool
Natural material to keep warmth in and wick away moisture. Wool is known to keep you warm even in extremely cold weather and ensures optimal thermoregulation. It has long been used by soldiers and travellers to protect against heat loss. However, not everyone chooses a wool-based set, as not everyone likes the feel of wool against their skin. Some people may feel uncomfortable and some people may have allergic reactions. This applies in particular to physical activity.
Cotton
Natural and lightweight cotton is not the most suitable material for men’s thermal underwear. It’s less dense than the fabrics listed above and it absorbs moisture. This means the body will start to lose heat, increasing the likelihood of hypothermia. But for a short stay in the cold, this option may well be suitable.
Types of thermal underwear
Here are some men’s thermal underwear options.
For extreme cold
Effective protection against freezing, even in extreme cold. Kits are used for cold weather diving, search and rescue work. Also a suitable choice for mountaineering and hunting in harsh weather conditions.
The suit repels moisture, completely covers the body, protects ankles and wrists. One-piece design. Suitable for temperatures down to -45°C. The stretch material provides increased wearer comfort.
Not recommended above 10°C (158°F). Heavy fabrics will add weight.
For extreme sports and physical activities
Suitable for skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports. These kits are lighter in weight compared to thermal clothing for extreme cold sports. The materials are pleasant to the touch. Suitable for mild to low temperatures between 0 –
-10⁰С.
Not recommended for use if the thermometer has fallen below – 12⁰C. Set includes tights and sweatshirt. The ankles and wrists of most models are not protected in the same way as the above model.
Synthetic underwear
Budget-friendly synthetic underwear sets. Suitable for outdoor pursuits in winter. Such things are often worn by children when playing in the yard.
These kits are inexpensive and effectively repel moisture. Recommended for use in temperatures from 0°C to -20°C.
Not recommended for long-term protection from the cold and in low temperatures below – 12⁰C.
Cotton underwear
Underwear made of natural cotton. The thermal underwear consists of leggings and sweatshirt. The fabric is soft, lightweight and breathable. Recommended temperature range for operation from 0°C to -20°C.
Not suitable for prolonged use in cold conditions. Minimum protection against the cold. Cotton also absorbs moisture, which causes the body to lose heat quickly and cools down.
Choose men’s thermal underwear from manufacturers that have a positive reputation among consumers. Be sure to consider the weather conditions, your level of physical activity and how long you’ll be out in the cold. A wide range of sets provides you with the optimum choice.
