It's freezing in the UK right now, as I'm sure we can all agree. So, while everyone's on the hunt for the best warming products, I'd like to make a case for the humble base layer. Specifically, thermals.
Following the cold weather alert issued on Monday , it remains vital to follow UKHSA's advice, such as heating your home and checking on vulnerable people.
Thermals should never be used in place of following important safety advice. However, they can make a significant difference to how warm you feel if you're looking to stay extra cosy. I, for one, feel glad I've found a pair of thermals I love, as they've really helped this winter.
Last November, I was lucky enough to test a bargain set that cost just over a fiver per piece, and I've never looked back since.
With the cold weather drawing in, I decided to try out Decathlon's cheapest Ski Base Layers. My reasoning was simple: if these products are designed for the ski slopes, they should help keep me warm inside and outside of my home.
Retailing at £5.99 for the top and £5.99 for the trousers at the time (now £6.99 each) the total set came to a respectable £11.98. But even if I'd paid more, I'd still think the layers were very worthwhile investment.
I was impressed by the products at the time, save for the length of the leggings on my long legs. But they've turned out to be even more useful than I could have known, since the winter days have closed in.
As someone who does not deal with the cold well, I kept wearing them after completing my first review - and here we are. Two months on, the thermals have become a staple in my wardrobe.
Whenever I know I'll be outside for most of the day, I make sure the set is freshly washed and ready to wear, as the garments make a real difference.
They've been everywhere, from the supermarket to the beach, during one windswept walk, and they were a welcome addition when I visited Winter Wonderland last month.
Despite sub-zero temperatures, I happily walked around the outdoor fair wearing my thermals. In a bold move, I didn't even add a full-length layer over the leggings, instead wearing them under my skirt and knee-high boots.
Black, form-fitting and comfortable, the products easily fit under top layers without adding bulk. Thanks to the quality, they can also be worn as they are, if you dare to brave the cold.
Don't get me wrong, neither is a luxury product, but you can tell they been designed with functionality in mind. These are no-nonsense thermals, and you get what you expect from the stretchy knit and brushed interior.
Sure you can layer up with jumper after jumper, if you prefer. I certainly needed layers during my visit to Winter Wonderland. But I'm glad I had my thermals as well as my knitwear and coat.
They are cheap, wash well, and I've yet to find another set that's just as good for the price. Then again, I haven't been looking, as I love almost everything about this pair.
Do you have a product recommendation to share? Email amber.oconnor@reachplc.com
