The type of material used in the manufacture of any clothing speaks volumes to its comfort, quality, and durability. There are many natural, synthetic, and hybrid fibers used in the global textile industry. Since no material is made equal, here are some of the materials commonly used in creating base layer clothing.

Synthetic fibers like polyester and their blends typically dry very fast which suits them for base layer clothing. This aspect makes apparel made from these materials ideal for cold, wet, as well as hot conditions. Traditionally synthetics had an odor accumulation problem. Luckily, advancements have brought enhanced synthetics that deal with such issues.

Cotton is incredibly absorbent and driers slowly, so stay away from base layer options made of 100% cotton. Avoid the fabric because you will still sweat under your clothing; however, cotton blended fabrics can still work. Synthetic fibers and bamboo merge with cotton to produce performance fabrics that have softness, enhanced moisture-wicking as well as stretchiness locked in.

Silk is an incredibly smooth fabric, which makes it suitable for users with, particularly sensitive skin. This fabric can be treated with chemicals to enhance the clothing’s moister wicking properties. The only major drawback is that it required meticulous care and it traps odor.

Merino wool has nearly replaced traditional wool in textile production thanks to its softness. This fiber is blended with stretchy fabrics like spandex to make warm yet stretchy clothing. Clothing made from merino wool comes highly recommended because of the moisture-wicking capabilities supple feel.

Polyester blends like spandex, Lycra, and nylon feature in almost every textile product made in the world. Base layer clothing that utilizes such fibers in their construction are stretchy and nearly feel like a second skin. Outfits featuring such materials also have a fleece lining to prevent the garment from locking odor while enhancing the warmth they offer.

Bamboo is a relatively new fabric to the market. This fabric is mixed with other fibers like cotton and polyester for a stronger material. Bamboo is effective at wicking moisture and retains its shape allowing manufactures to create clothing that offers more compression.

Outdoor explorers like hikers, campers, and climbers need to stay dry and warm as well as add some odor resistance to their clothing. Base layer clothing provides those qualities as well as resistance to dirt and grime thanks to enhanced fabrics. Naturally, soft and warm fabrics like cotton and wool are combined with synthetic fibers to make clothing that is both functional and comfortable.

Snow sports like snowshoeing and skiing require long treks through harsh snow-covered landscapes, which exposes you to freezing temperatures. Light to heavyweight base layering clothing affords the wearer some protection from these harsh elements. These clothes effectively prevent heat from escaping while wicking away at sweat to ensure you stay dry and warm.

Upper torso activities like mountain climbing and kayaking lead to a heavy accumulation of lactic acid, which causes cramps and swelling. Base layer options made with thick fabric, to a loose fit on the chest area can reduce oxygen debt and the accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles. Such clothing offers some compression as well as the circulation of warm oxygen-rich blood in the muscle tissues.

Backpackers need clothing that is comfortable, and warm enough to sleep in because of the on-the-go nature of their journeys. Both synthetic and natural fabrics work well in the preferred base layer clothing. The base layer clothing should also wick at moisture and be easy to doff even while on the move.

Casual hikers require warm, moisture-wicking, and warm base layer clothing to provide them with insulation and protection from the elements. Their base layer clothing options also need to be light and have anti-chafing features like welded seams. Both synthetic and natural fibers can provide these qualities.

Commuter cyclists face constant battles with oncoming traffic as well as chilly winds and the constant threat of rain. Light merino base-layer clothing with waterproof shells are ideally suited to the needs of such commuters. Such materials provide the necessary protection, and the user need not worry about getting hot and sweaty under such layers of clothing.

All-weather motorcyclists hit very high speeds that expose them to frosty wind chills. Heavy synthetic-based base layer clothing further enhanced with a windproof membrane is ideal for the needs of such users. Such clothing enhances the insulating effects of your helmet, jacket, balaclava, etc.

Aspects such as the materials used, weight, and general design of thermals can tell you the most about the insulation such a product offers. Thermals need to trap heat while allowing for ventilation and wicking away at sweat and moisture. This “trapping” and retention of body heat keeps your body from going numb from the cold.

Proper Insulation can also protect you from hyperthermia, frostbite, cold, and flu infections. This protection is as a result of your body, retaining a temperature that prevents such infections and reactions. However, relying solely on thermal underwear is a foolhardy choice; please also invest in additional gear like high quality gloves, socks, balaclavas, and anything else that will keep you warm.

As mentioned earlier materials play a huge role in the insulating qualities of any item of clothing. Merino wool is a natural fiber that keeps you warm even when you sit or stand in the cold for some time. Wool is soft and fluffy, which makes it comfortable to wear, and the fluffy fibers act as small pockets that trap hence insulate hot air.

Thermals made with such materials also reduce the ratio at which heat is lost to the environment. This type of clothing fits snuggly close to the skin. Therefore, very little of this hot air gets lost during the transfer back to the body.

The trick to proper insulation is creating a secondary layer of hot air between your thermals and skin. Air does not conduct heat or remain heated as effectively as water does. Therefore, you also need to control sweat, wind, and the amount of moisture that comes from the environment. Most of the products on this list have these aspects under control; however, your choice remains subjective to your personal needs.

If you are shopping for something for regular or daily usage, then a thin and lightweight option is the best bet. Such thermals easily slip into your jeans and other clothing without bunching up. As for the cold winter months, you are safer if you bet on a heavier option to shield you from the cold.

Each weight option has its advantages and drawbacks. Your needs and range of activities serve as the best way to determine the weight of your clothing. Here are the main categories you will run into while shopping for thermals.

Ultra-lightweight thermals are good for mildly cold climatic conditions. You can layer them under sports gear for additional warm for early morning outdoor activities when the season is not too cold. You can also sleep in them or use them as casual daily wear.

Lightweight thermals have a bit heavier than ultra-light but less bulky than heavyweight models. Such thermals are ideal for daily use as well as a variety of winter outdoor sports and activities. You can use them for skiing or running, jogging or hiking during the winter.

Some lightweight options offer some compression that ensures you have warm blood flowing through your muscles. The key to using such clothing outdoors is to move around a lot to sustain this blood flow. Therefore, as long as you keep moving these thermals will keep the cold at bay.

Mid-weight thermals are suited for use in regions where users are exposed to passing bouts of harsh temperatures. They offer slightly less insulation when compared to heavyweight models but provide more flexibility and freedom of movement. These qualities make them appropriate for use in activities such as sledding, snowshoeing, skiing, and extreme winter sports.

Heavyweight thermals are ideal for extreme levels of cold. Their sheer weight makes them great for spending time in such environments, even without constant motion. If you are interested in backpacking through the winter, camping or hiking then you should go for such clothing.

The first thing you to consider when looking at the style of base layer clothing is the amount of coverage you need. Aside from the coverage, you can also look at how much compression you need from your clothing. The ease of use can also determine your preference for a particular style over another one.

Long shirts
Some models come in the shape of long sleeve shirts that usually have a crew neck or an extendible turtleneck. These shirts provide your upper body and arm with protection from the elements. The most beneficial aspect of long-sleeved shirts is you can easily roll up the sleeves or take them off when it gets too hot.

Leggings
Base layer pants look like tights because of their form-fitting and compression design. They cover everything south of the waistline. Aside from insulating your body from the elements, these tights can also be used by cyclists and runners that have issues with chaffing.

Boxer/briefs
These provide the same level of coverage, regular boxers, and briefs offer. These thermal underpants are suitable for places with subzero temperatures. When layering clothing for such regions, you will need as many layers as possible.

Two-piece suits
This base layer clothing comes with both a long sleeve top and legging bottoms. Such an outfit gives the advantage of being able to take part of it off when it gets hot. Some of the products on this list that feature this design also work well as sleepwear or casual gear.

Union suits
All thought union suits are outdated and not commonly used these days they still warrant a token mention. These suits look more like jumpsuits or onesie jammies. The amount of coverage and stiffness of such suits makes them inappropriate for a range of activities, but they make great pajamas for the winter months.