The 10 Best Women's Long Underwear
This wiki has been updated 27 times since it was first published in October of 2016. Whether you're planning on skiing, hiking, or camping in cooler climates, or you simply want to ensure you stay warm at work or school, our selection of women's long underwear should provide you with enough options to keep the worst of winter at bay. We've added high-tech clothing for the harshest cold snaps as well as lighter choices for those who don't have to worry about sub-zero temperatures. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Under Armour Base 2.0
2. Smartwool 150 Long Sleeve
3. Columbia Omni-Heat
Editor's Notes
October 14, 2020:
If you're tired of feeling cold, we think any of the options you'll find here will help you out, although some are better suited for some activities than for others. For example, we kept the Rocky Long John Set, even though it wasn't made for ultra-cold conditions; choose this option for a little extra warmth in chilly weather or for lounging around at home.
When you need moderate protection against the elements, look instead to the Under Armour Base 2.0, the Columbia Omni-Heat, and, for a top, the popular Smartwool 150 Long Sleeve. These have all the features you'd expect for comfort as well as for durability, such as high-quality materials that will last a long time with proper care.
And if you're heading out to explore frigid environments, there's the Duofold Heavyweight Double-Layer Thermal Shirt. It's both comfortable and affordable, although some find that the torso and sleeves are cut just a touch too short. Or, if you're going to add several layers to your outfit, always a good idea in low temperatures, the Terramar Thermasilk might be a good addition. Because they aren't bulky, they make layering a snap, although on their own, they provide only moderate warmth. Since they can snag, however, you'll want to handle and wash them carefully, much the way you would with delicate leggings or lingerie.
September 17, 2019:
Whether you’re looking for durable, warm women’s merino wool long underwear or a set made from lightweight, easy-to-care-for polyester material, you’ve got plenty of options in many designs and colors. Joining the list in today’s update are the reliable Columbia Omni-Heat Thermal Insulated pants, which are designed to provide breathable warmth, whether you’re out in the cold skiing, ice-fishing, or running. This stretchy choice is sure to keep you comfortable, thanks to the moisture-wicking gusset and waistband and antimicrobial properties for odor control. They layer easily under your other clothes, so you won’t feel restricted.
If you prefer pants made from an all-wool material, look to the Meriwool Midweight, which, although they should be washed by hand, can be hung to dry easily, thanks to a handy, sewn-in loop. You can buy them with confidence, thanks to their one-year manufacturer’s warranty. For an equally durable, warm top, look to the WoolX Hannah, which comes with plenty of nifty bells and whistles, like flatlock seams for comfort, underarm gussets for mobility, and a lack of itchy, annoying tags. This one is conveniently safe for machine washing and drying.
Leaving the list today is the Rocky Thermal Long John, due to issues with availability.
October 10, 2018:
Removed the Polarmax Tech Silk due to misleading claims about fiber content. Added several options, including the Arc'Teryx, WoolX, and Meriwool, for more extreme climates. Investigated popular Smartwool choices, deciding to add the Merino 150 but omit the NTS bottoms because of reported comfort issues with the waistband.
Special Honors
REI Co-op Merino Midweight Base Layer Tights These bottoms feature ultra-fine merino wool that offers a soft feel without any itchiness, while the material naturally wicks away sweat and resists odors. The low-bulk seams prevent chafing, while the crotch gusset allows for full range of movement. This makes them great for outdoor activities like skiing, running, and more. This low-maintenance choice is conveniently machine washable. rei.com
Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms These versatile base-layer pants have a smooth outer texture that makes for easy layering, while their brushed-grid interior ensures warmth, breathability, and wicking. Their proprietary odor-control technology allows you to wear them more and wash them less. They’re comfortable as well, thanks to a flat waistband with brushed inner elastic. patagonia.com
L.L.Bean Fleece Crew If even the softest of merino wool still seems itchy to you, you'll want to check out the L.L.Bean Fleece Crew, which has the snuggly softness of fleece, just as its name suggests. Not only that, but it's made from recycled polyester, so you can feel good about your purchase in more ways than one. llbean.com
4. Meriwool Leggings
5. Arc'teryx Rho Ar
6. WoolX Hannah
7. Minus33 Franconia
8. Terramar Thermasilk
9. Duofold Heavyweight Double-Layer Thermal Shirt
10. Rocky Long John Set
Melissa Harr is a language-obsessed writer from Chicagoland who holds both a bachelor of arts and master of arts in English. Although she began as a TEFL teacher, earning several teaching certificates and working in both Russia and Vietnam, she moved into freelance writing to satisfy her passion for the written word. She has published full-length courses and books in the realm of arts & crafts and DIY; in fact, most of her non-working time is spent knitting, cleaning, or committing acts of home improvement. Along with an extensive knowledge of tools, home goods, and crafts and organizational supplies, she has ample experience (okay, an obsession) with travel gear, luggage, and the electronics that make modern life more convenient.