+372 880 4126 Choosing Thermal Underwear for the Cold Season
Thermal underwear is an essential gear for anyone who enjoys fishing, hiking, or other outdoor activities in cold weather. This specialized layer helps manage sweat and body heat, keeping you dry during intense activity and warm when you stop moving. It's particularly useful during fall and spring when weather conditions can change quickly from rain to sun to wind. In this article, we'll show you how to choose the right thermal underwear for fishing trips and outdoor adventures, and review the best FINNTRAIL options for the upcoming season.
How to Choose the Right Thermal Underwear for Cold Weather
In cold weather, thermal underwear is used as a base layer that wicks the moisture away from the body and retains heat providing initial protection against cold. When choosing thermal underwear, consider several important factors:
-
Material. Synthetic, wool, or blended—each has its advantages. Synthetics wick moisture away better, wool provides more warmth, and blends combine the best of both.
-
Density. The denser the fabric, the warmer the underwear. For autumn, medium density models are optimal.
-
Design. Prefer models with flat seams, elastic bands that don't squeeze, and a high neck for better protection.
-
Type. One-piece or two-piece sets offer different advantages. E.g. two-piece is more versatile, while one-piece provides better coverage and snug fit.
-
Anatomy. Thermal underwear is divided into men's, women's, and children's styles. Anatomical cut is as important as size: the material should fit closely to the body and follow the contours of your figure without excessive compression.
Temperature Ranges
Most manufacturers use similar systems to indicate thermal insulation levels. Understanding these labels helps you quickly identify appropriate temperature ranges and select the right thermal underwear for your needs.
|
Marking |
Intensity of Activity |
Season, Temperature Range |
Type of Activity |
|
Cool (Outdoor) |
Light |
Summer, from +15°C and above |
Hiking, fishing, running, fitness |
|
Light (Thermo, Zero Extreme) |
Moderate |
Autumn, from +15°C to -5°C |
Trekking, fishing, off-road racing, running, cycling |
|
Warm (Wool Soft) |
Moderate, heavy |
Late autumn, winter to -20°C |
Trekking, backpacking, winter fishing, off-road racing, snowboarding |
|
X-Warm, Extra Warm |
Extreme |
To -30°C and below |
Backpacking, mountaineering |
Thermal Underwear Labeling
There are other types of markings with the "weight" prefix:
-
Micro. Thin, summer, for active sports up to +20°C and above.
-
Light. Thicker, suitable for transitional seasons and down to -5°C, good at wicking away moisture.
-
Mid. For winter activities, provides good warmth but less sweat evaporation.
-
Heavy. For severe winters with frost and snowfall, thick and very warm, not suitable for active sports.
Ranking of the Best FINNTRAIL Thermal Underwear Models for Autumn
Thermal underwear for active sports:
-
ALL SEASON — ideal for trekking, running, and active riding even in the wettest autumn. Comfortable thermal regulation is maintained during variable activity in the range from +10°C to -15°C. The completely seamless underwear promotes a tighter fit and accommodates the features of any figure.
Thermal underwear for off-roading and fishing:
-
THERMO-S — perfect for moderate to intensive outdoor activities in cold conditions. The dense elastic material with fleece inner lining effectively retains body heat while efficiently wicking away excess moisture. Anatomical cut with flat seams provides a snug, chafe-free fit that follows your body's contours. Temperature ranges from +10°C to -25°C make it versatile for late autumn through winter use.
-
SUBZERO — the most successful set for both active and more static fishing without much movement. The underwear is designed for harsh conditions from 0°C to -30°C, but thanks to the dense technological WAFFLE-KNIT material, it keeps you warm and comfortable even when just sitting on the shore.
Caring for Your Thermal Underwear: How to Extend Its Lifespan
-
Thermal underwear doesn't absorb sweat, and quality sets have antibacterial protection against odors. Still, wash your set regularly, but not more than once a week.
-
Check the care label before washing. It shows the temperature, recommended cycle, and whether spinning and machine drying are allowed. Following these instructions helps maintain the fabric's quality.
-
Use mild detergents and rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
-
Don't soak, bleach, or use stain removers on thermal underwear.
-
Dry at room temperature only, away from direct sunlight, heaters, and open flames.
-
Never iron synthetic materials as heat damages the fabric. Natural materials can be lightly ironed, but only on the inside.
-
Store folded in a well-ventilated place. Wool-containing items should be kept in protective bags to prevent insect damage.
Where to Buy Thermal Underwear for Autumn
Whether you're fishing in a light drizzle or off-road riding through forests of golden leaves, modern thermal wear lets you fully enjoy autumn's outdoor activities regardless of weather conditions. The key to comfort during extended fishing trips or outdoor adventures is proper layering, starting with specialized thermal underwear. For anglers and outdoor enthusiasts, factors like material composition, fabric density, anatomical construction, and expected activity levels determine the ideal choice. Browse Finntrail's online catalog for thermal sets designed specifically for fishing and outdoor pursuits—stay comfortable on the water or trail no matter how unpredictable autumn weather becomes.
