Now we're in the depths of winter - when the summer sun has become a distant memory and biting sub-zero temperatures are the hellish reality - the time has come to start thinking about thermals.
With base layers at your disposal, you can easily weatherproof your outfits without bulking out your silhouette - meaning even your summer pieces can work double-duty. There's no need to hide your oxford shirt beneath a chunky knit or conceal your favourite jeans under a floor-length coat because you can layer up from the bottom, instead.
Generally speaking, you can choose from natural fibres like merino wool, or synthetic fabrics including polyester and acrylic. The former wicks sweat effectively, is super comfortable, and boasts a natural resistance to odour and bacteria, whilst the latter delivers on the value-for-money front.
There are other economic benefits to be capitalised on, too. Instead of switching on energy-draining electric blankets or fan heaters at home, you could turn to your comfy two-piece thermal set for a cosy, sustainable and wallet-friendly alternative.
From Uniqlo’s Heattech collection to responsible brand CDLP’s offering, we’ve pulled together a selection from the best base-layer labels on the market. Our top tip? Invest in both a long-sleeved top and long johns so you're covered from top to toe.
Keep scrolling for the best.
Long johns and tights
M&S COLLECTION Heatgen Medium Thermal Long Johns
A great wallet-friendly option, Marks & Spencer’s Heatgen long johns are made using an insulating brushed-back cotton blend that’s warm, breathable, and ultra-soft.
Buy now £18.00, M&S
CDLP Long Johns
Since base layers sit so close to your skin, the feel of the fabric is all the more important. The good news? CDLP's silky-smooth plant-based lyocell will not disappoint - and it's sustainable, too. A double whammy.
Buy now £70.00, CDLP
Uniqlo HEATTECH Ultra Warm Thermal Tights
Perhaps one of the best thermal ranges on the market, Uniqlo’s HEATTECH collection is a winter essential. Deodorising, moisture-wicking, and insulating, these thermal tights are there to solve all of your cold-weather wardrobe woes.
Buy now £24.90, Uniqlo
Salomon Essential Wool Seamless Men’s Tights
Thanks to the seamless design, Salomon’s tights keep friction to a minimum for an irritation-free ride. Offering breathability and thermoregulation in all the right places, they’re designed with body mapping for the best results.
Buy now £80.00, Salomon
Lululemon Vital Drive Training Tight 28"
Designed with training in mind, Lululemon’s tights offer locked-in support and interior gripping to keep the tights in place. Better yet, the added touch of lycra means they'll keep their shape no matter how much you wear them.
Buy now £89.00, Lululemon
Tops
Adidas Terrex Drynamo Eco Merino Long Sleeve Tee
Lean into the gorpy base-layer-on-show look with Adidas' quarter-zip long-sleeve. Layered beneath a T-shirt in the city or a ski jacket on the slopes, not only is it well-equipped to keep your body temperature just right, but it's also the pop of red this season calls for. Style and substance.
Buy now £70.00, Adidas
Falke Men long sleeve Shirt Warm
Known primarily for a high-quality range of hosiery and socks, Falke’s activewear range lives up to the premium rep. With a sight turtleneck, extra flex in the shoulders and elbows, and fabric that offers moisture and temperature regulation, this top will offer you optimum protection and comfort.
Buy now £59.00, Falke
Helly Hansen Men’s LIFA Merino Midweight Crew Base Layer
Featuring a merino wool exterior and a sweat-wicking interior, Helly Hansen’s design offers warmth, breathability, and moisture management, and its super soft non-itch fabric will feel soft against your skin.
Buy now £85.00, Helly Hansen
Under Armour Men's HeatGear Long Sleeve
Designing performancewear that's both effective and affordable is Under Armour's MO. The label's HeatGear range is one of the best in the base-layer business. Moisture-wicking and fast-drying, this top will keep you warm in the winter and cool when things start to heat up.
Buy now £36.00, Under Armour
Hanro Woolen Silk Long Sleeved Shirt
Austrian underwear expert Hanro is a go-to for luxurious layering pieces. A wool-silk blend, this black long-sleeve delivers extra warmth and superior softness - especially when paired with the matching long johns.
Buy now £115.00, Hanro
