LET'S BE FRANK: Thermal underwear is arguably the least sexy type of undies for men on the market. On the flip side, they are some of the most functional bottoms since they support more than just your privates, providing coverage for your entire lower half. And of course, as their name suggests, the main reason to sport these underpants is to keep you warm in the colder months. So, unless you’re willing to brave the freezing temperatures without some much-needed buffering, it’s time to embrace these hardy skivvies as a wardrobe must-have.
But, better yet, the best thermal underwear for men available today has evolved from the drab ol’ long johns of yesteryear into a subset of more types and styles to meet even more needs. Plus, they're great to layer under your favorite winter sweater and winter jacket.
Current selections range from everyday base layers to those worthier for at-home loafing, with the influence of athleisure over the years resulting in more advanced thermals that are resilient enough to keep things toasty during the most extreme of outdoor activities. Planning on an upcoming ski or snowboarding trip? Some of these picks will even prove to be a trusty base layer under your ski pants. No matter your reason for seeking out these winter-ready basics, look no further than these 14 best pairs of men’s thermal underwear.
This top-rated thermal set hits it's marks due to affordability and a number of premium specs. Thermajohn uses a polyester/spandex blend for a stretchy, form-fitting feel, but the real highlight is the fleece-lining that keeps you toasty warm. What's great is the garments are moisture-wicking too, thus making them easy to wear for all types of adventures.
You know what's better than a pair of waffle long johns? Three pairs of waffle long johns. This multi-pack from Fruit of the Loom will give you the ability to cycle through your thermal underwear for multiple days of wear—which is great if you're wearing them for work or simply wanting to wait longer to do laundry.
When it comes to thermal underwear, you may have come across items crafted in a waffle knit. And that’s with good reason—this fabric blend does an exceptional job at fulfilling all your needs: Trapping heat, tackling odor and managing moisture through its swift-drying and sweat-wicking elements. Add to that Carhartt’s rugged flex tech that makes moving around a breeze, with the added benefits of tactically placed seams reducing chafing and improving comfort.
Flexible fabric that allows for all types of motion
Moisture-wicking and odor-resistant
Great level of warmth
Cons
Can feel too tight for some
You’ve likely integrated at least some apparel by the sportswear giant into your wardrobe, and if you haven’t yet, the addition of Under Armour base layer leggings is worth adding to cart. The stretchy and lightweight HeatGear fabric incorporates anti-odor tech, moisture-wicking and fast-drying properties, making it an ideal match for the man who likes to be on the move.
Not as flexible as pairs made with tech fabric blends
Expensive
If you ask us, there's still nothing better than a pair of classic cotton long johns. This pair form Ron Dorff has a cool Nordic-inspired design and is made from cozy organic cotton. We're talking zero itch and a long lifespan.
With yoga at the core of the company’s ethos, it should come as no surprise that this base layer piece includes four-way stretch fabric that wicks moisture, dries quickly and is abrasion resistant. But Lululemon has stepped it up to the next level. These training tights include interior gripping that correspond with the body’s major muscle groups, keeping the tights in position, and aiding in muscle steadiness. Impressed much? You should be.
Merino wool that's naturally odor resistant and temperature regulating
High level of comfort and warmth
Great for outdoor activities like hiking
Cons
Expensive
Taking pride in its Merino wool items developed for the outdoors, Smartwool’s base layer tights provide more than enough warmth without any of the claustrophobic stuffiness. Thanks to the underwear’s 100% Merino wool interlock knit fabric construction (with this pair being the brand’s heaviest weight), sweat is wicked away and odors kept at bay without you losing any heat.
Ethically sourced and made with recycled materials
Easy to move around in
Cons
Would be nice if more colors were available
Expensive
Patagonia's Capilene base layer, made from recycled polyester and ethically sourced, results in a soft, stretchy and quick drying pair of bottoms that retains warmth while also working hard to wick moisture and minimize odor. Comfort is also a priority, as the seamless 3-D construction reduces chaffing while the front crotch’s double layer adds extra support to your package.
Established by textile engineers in 2002, Minus33 has upped the thermal gear ante with their base layers. A prime example of the brand’s winning pieces includes these midweight bottoms made of 100% Merino wool in an interlock knit construction. Simply put, a guarantee that you’ll stay warmed up—yet sweat-free—whether you’re up for an arctic run, a snowboarding expedition, or simply going out to grab groceries midwinter.
Bombas' long underwear has the same high-level comfort as it's socks and underwear. This pair has no tag and limited seams, so all you'll feel is buttery soft smoothness all up and down your legs.
The American company has long been regarded as one of the first suppliers of thermals, and even today, its items have plenty to boast about. These Icetex undies tick several boxes, from providing heavyweight warmth to the odor-battling properties of the fabric’s Silvadur Technology. Thanks to the brushed inner layer of the raschel knit, your goods are guaranteed to stay both snug and dry on your outdoor adventures.
Founded in 2011, the menswear brand Mack Weldon, which develops its own fabrics, has quickly climbed the ranks as a top purveyor of men’s basics, with its thermal underwear no exception. Case in point: The brand’s WARMKNIT fabric constructed in a micro-waffle knit and featuring their insulating Thermolite technology makes for a great base layer that keeps the temps just right.
If you’re determined to keep your undergarment game as sexy as possible, then a pair of long johns from CDLP is the way to go. When the Swedish design house launched in 2016, it had one goal in mind: To transform men’s underwear. Fashioned from Lyocell—the most sustainable cellulose fabric found in wood—their thermals provide a more tailored look without compromising on warmth and comfiness.
A winner in versatility, this offering by 32 Degrees consists of a soft, lightweight four-way stretch fabric that’s equally functional as loungewear, gym gear or as everyday base layer pants. The biggest win? You get all of this without breaking bank.
How We Selected
For the past three years, we consulted with Men's Health's editors and writers on the best thermal underwear for men. Experts, including our Deputy Editor of Commerce Christian Gollayan, and our Gear and Commerce Editor John Thompson, put a number of long johns to the test and evaluated their warmth, comfort, price point, and durability. We also considered top-reviewed pairs of men's thermal underwear with high praise on e-commerce websites we trust.
Bernd Fischer is a freelance writer based in London covering style for Men’s Health. Before relocating to the United Kingdom, Bernd was a Content Editor at GQ Middle East in Dubai, having previously served in the same role at GQ South Africa in Cape Town. He has written for Paper, The Manual, Mic, Splinter, and the South African editions of Glamour and House & Garden. Bernd is a graduate of Columbia Journalism School in New York.
John Thompson is the Gear and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where he covers fashion, grooming, gear, and technology. He was previously the Style & Gear Editor at BroBible.com, and a commerce writer for TheManual.com. His interests include shopping for rare vintage clothes and following his favorite baseball team, the Kansas City Royals.