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The Best Long Underwear

Last updated on October 18, 2021
Best Long Underwear

Our Review Process

Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to. Learn more.

Look for the DWYM seal for products that are the best in a category.

Our Picks For The Top Long Underwear

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Product Overview
Key Takeaway
 Men's Pick

Thermajohn Fleece Lined Thermal Long Underwear

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Thermajohn

Fleece Lined Thermal Long Underwear

This men’s thermal underwear set is made from premium polyester-Spandex. It also boasts odor control so you can wear them all day or night. The stretchy fabric and label-free construction do not constrict movement, so they can be worn comfortably under clothes.

Overall Take

Strong Seams; No TagsWith a soft feel and snug fit, this set of long underwear act like a second skin.

 Best Basic

Fruit of the Loom Moisture Wicking Long Underwear, 2-Pack

Fruit of the Loom

Moisture Wicking Long Underwear, 2-Pack

If you're looking for a medium-weight set of long underwear, this two-pack is an excellent choice. The material is soft and comfortable against skin and designed for use in moderately cold to cold weather. Men will also love that the underwear is tagless and moisture wicking.

Overall Take

Great DesignYou'll find these long underwear come in a choice of colors, including natural, soot black, light gray and navy.

 Women's Pick

Thermajane Womens’ Thermal Long Underwear

Thermajane

Womens' Thermal Long Underwear

These women’s long johns come in 11 colors and have a chafe-free fit, making them look and feel amazing. Their stretchable, moisture-wicking fabric has a “squat proof” design, so you don’t have to worry about them bunching up or shifting. Wear them under other clothes to run errands, to play in the cold weather, or to sleep in, or simply ke...

Overall Take

Choice, Flexibility and WarmthThis long underwear for women is sure to keep you cozy and won’t ride up.

 Boys' Pick

ViCherub Boys’ Thermal Fleece Lined Long Underwear

ViCherub

Boys' Thermal Fleece Lined Long Underwear

These long johns are designed for boys and are sized extra-small to extra-large. They come in eight colors and styles, including red, Christmas, blue, black, navy, jade and this gray. They can be worn as a base layer or on their own, depending on the weather.

Overall Take

Effective PickThis fleece long underwear for kids insulates against the cold and dries quickly.

Buying Guide

Long underwear comes in three different weights: lightweight, for moderate to cool weather; midweight for cold temperatures; and heavyweight for below-freezing temperatures. The main goal of this base layer is to manage moisture, but the heavier-weight versions will also add more warmth.

These tops and bottoms can be worn alone or under clothing. Most are made with moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you dry and cozy. Though they can be made from sustainable fabrics like merino wool or silk, the most popular fabric is polyester, usually with some Spandex or Lycra added for stretch. Synthetic fabrics are so widespread because they’re good at dissipating sweat and are less expensive than merino wool.

Some long underwear also has a finish to slow the growth of odor-causing bacteria, a great feature to have for those who sweat more.

Finally, long underwear should fit snugly, but not too tightly. When loose, the moisture-wicking features will not be as effective.

What to Look For

  • Natural materials like wool and silk may be warm, but they are not as durable as polyester — good to know if you expect to wear and wash them often. However, if you’re planning a multi-day trip, keep in mind that even the best anti-stink coating won’t prevent synthetic long underwear from turning smelly after a few days.
  • Merino wool is tough to beat when it comes to avoiding stink. It has natural antibacterial properties — no extra fabric treatment needed — that keep it stink-free even after multiple wears without washing.
  • Always read the washing instructions before laundering your long underwear. Most can be machine washed and will last longer if they’re air dried.
  • For activities that increase body temperature, such as running and hiking, light or midweight long underwear is a good choice. Heavier-weight base layers are ideal for less aerobic activities, like fishing.

More to Explore

The history of long underwear dates back to the late 18th century, when English inventor John Smedley first manufactured this base-layer clothing. Believe it or not, the Smedley company is still in business, and could very well be among the world’s oldest operating factories.

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