Thermal clothing is necessary to keep us extra warm during unbearably cold winter days. They are also useful if you want to keep the cold out while playing winter sports or simply enjoying the outdoors. This is why you need to shop for high-quality thermal clothing. The next time you go shopping for winter thermals, keep these important tips in mind:
- Check the materials. When it does to thermal wear, it’s all about the fabric. Low-quality thermal underwear does not wick your sweat away, leaving you feeling wet and cold. It’s a good idea to spend a little bit more money on “wicking” thermal clothes made of materials that easily spread out moisture. You want a thermal garment that moves sweat away from your skin and dries quickly. Look for thermal clothing that is made with lightweight and stretchable materials like spandex and polyester, so they easily balance moisture and temperature. Try to avoid polypropylene because it tends to retain odour and becomes stinky.
- Fleece is fantastic and you can’t go wrong with it. It’s a tried and tested insulator, making it perfect if you spend a lot of time outdoors. It still performs even when wet, and it dries quickly because the material spreads the moisture out.
- Layering is the key to staying warm. Invest on thermal sweaters, turtlenecks, pullovers, and vests. If you are outdoors a lot, you need an exterior layer that repels water from snow, rain, or sleet, and effectively blocks wind.
- Protect your face, neck, head, and extremities. Did you know that 60% of your body heat escapes from your head? Preserve that heat by wearing a thick, insulating hat. A fleece neck gaiter or scarf is also recommended to cover your neck area. You also need insulated gloves and medium-weight or lightweight thermal socks.