When it comes to winter wear, there are a lot of categories and subcategories of woolen clothing that might come off as confusing or even overwhelming for some people. But winter wear is very simple, even humorous. Let’s begin by discussing exactly what is thermal clothing.

The word ‘thermal’ means heat. Thermal wear is also known as ‘long underwear’ or thermal underwear because of its appearance which is of elongated underwear that fits the entire body. There are plenty of reasons why wearing thermals is important in winter. For that, let’s start by understanding ‘What is thermal clothing exactly ?’

What is Thermal Clothing?

Thermal clothing is a type of clothing that keeps you warm in cold weather. It is made from a fabric that is moisture-wicking and breathable, which means it helps to keep you dry and comfortable. Thermal clothing is often referred to as "base layer" clothing because it is the innermost layer of clothing that you wear.

It works by trapping your body heat and preventing it from escaping. The honeycomb weave of the fabric helps to create small pockets of air, which trap the heat. The moisture-wicking properties of the fabric help to keep you dry, which is important because sweat can cool you down and make you feel cold.

Thermal clothing can be worn for a variety of activities in cold weather, such as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. It can also be worn for everyday activities, such as going to work or school.

A complete guide on thermals for winter

What is Base Layer Clothing?

Base layers refer to the innermost layers of winter clothing. In cold weather conditions, base layers form the foundation for all the other layers. Many define them as ‘second skin’ thus referring to the many features they provide. This innermost layer soaks all the sweat and maintains the body temperature by not letting the body heat escape. It also prevents the extremely cold air from seeping in. 

Whenever you look for these online or in a physical store, understand that base layers stick to your skin for greater efficiency. That doesn’t mean that they should be uncomfortable or restrict your movements.

Kosha typically has three types of layers namely – base layers, mid-layers, and shell layers. According to the place of visit and your body resistance to cold, make an informed decision with what to opt for!

Base layer vs Thermal clothing. Is there a difference?

While going through this blog, it might seem that thermal clothing and base layers mean the same and can be used interchangeably. However, that is not the case. 

Base layer clothing is the innermost layer of clothing that you wear, and it is designed to wick away moisture and keep you dry. Thermal clothing is a type of base layer clothing that is made from a fabric that is specifically designed to retain heat.

So, while all thermal clothing is base layer clothing, not all base layer clothing is thermal clothing. For example, a cotton t-shirt can be a base layer, but it is not thermal clothing because it does not retain heat.

Kosha's base layers are made of thermal fabric, which means that they are both moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating. This means that they will help you to stay dry and warm, even in cold weather.

Merino Wool & Bamboo Lightweight Thermal Wear

What are the types of thermal clothing?

Thermal clothing comes in different forms, including thermal bottoms, thermal tops, and thermal accessories. Kosha's thermal base layers are stylish and effective, and can be worn as a standalone piece or under regular clothing.

Kosha originally made their base layers with merino wool, but customers found them to be itchy. They have since reinvented their product using a combination of merino wool and bamboo, which is more comfortable and warmer to wear.

Base Layer & Thermal Clothing Tops

Kosha’s base layer thermal wear comes as half-sleeve and full-sleeved tees. Being light in weight they are highly compressible. These are available for both men and women. They are anti-bacterial, moisture-wicking, durable and so chic that they can be carried off directly in breezy winters!

Merino Wool Bamboo Full Sleeve Thermal Tee

Kosha thermal base layer tops are perfect for anyone who wants to stay warm and stylish in cold weather. They are a great choice for hikers, skiers, snowboarders, and other outdoor enthusiasts. They are also a good option for people who live in cold climates or who simply want to stay warm during the winter months.

Check out Kosha’s thermal base layer tops for men, base layer tops for women 

Base Layer & Thermal Clothing Bottoms

When visiting a place that experiences cold winters, it is important to wear the right clothing to stay warm. Denim, jeans, and cotton are not suitable for extremely cold weather, as they do not insulate well and can absorb moisture, making you feel colder.

Instead, you should wear base layer and thermal clothing bottoms that are made from materials that are waterproof, snow-proof, and windproof. These materials will help to keep you warm and dry, even in the coldest weather.

Women's Oatmeal Thermal Bottoms

Kosha's thermal bottoms are the perfect way to stay warm and comfortable in cold weather. They are made with a combination of merino wool and bamboo, which makes them soft, moisture-wicking, and breathable. They are also windproof and water-resistant, making them a great choice for outdoor activities in cold weather.

They are available in a variety of colors and sizes, so you can find the perfect pair for your needs. They are also machine-washable and easy to care for. They are also called thermal leggings. In case of extremely low temperatures, wear these underneath your regular clothes

Check out Kosha’s thermal base layer bottoms for men, base layer bottoms for women

Accessories 

Accessories play a very important role when it comes to achieving peak warmth in cold weather. Winter accessories like gloves, mittens, beanies, caps, socks, scarves, mufflers, or even monkey caps when it comes to kids, are worth more than just their aesthetic value. 

All weather merino wool accessories

These accessories make sure that the areas of the body that are usually exposed to cold climate, are covered and insulated. As snowy winters make the hands go numb, Kosha’s merino wool gloves impart great warmth while also providing the much-needed grip.

Check out Kosha’s accessories for men, accessories for women

What is Kosha thermal clothing made of?

Kosha’s thermal wear is made of merino wool, bamboo, and elastane. They are available in full-sleeved, half-sleeved t-shirts, thermal pants, thermal accessories, and more. The thermal tees can be used as actual T-shirts for casual winter outings.

Kosha’s range of thermal wear collection has additional features - it is soft on the skin with antibacterial properties. Being durable, it has anti-odour traits and is also moisture-wicking.

Do thermal clothes really work?

As mentioned in the introduction, thermal means ‘heat’. This is also why providing maximum insulation is the key feature of thermal winter apparel. Thermals are usually body-hugging for additional warmth. 

Best Thermal and woollen wear

When worn as base layers, the material is such that it sticks to your skin thus leaving no space for chilly winds to enter. Thermal base layers also maintain the heat by not letting your natural body's warmth escape. This is typically done as thermals tend to soak in your sweat.

All of these features make these the best choice when it comes to winter clothing. However, there is only so much that these can do. In places with very low temperatures pair these with appropriate outerwear depending upon your resistance to cold.

Read: The Best Thermal Wear in India

When should thermal clothing be worn? 

Based on the purpose and time of visit, how to put thermal wear to use must be decided. In places with pleasant winters, the thermals can be worn on their own. In regions of extreme cold, thermal wear should be paired with insulating outerwear like parkas, puffer jackets, sweaters, etc. 

Kosha’s thermal wear can be used in a temperature range of 15 degrees Celsius to 10 degrees Celsius without any additional layers. When paired with more layers, this thermal wear can be used for temperatures reaching as low as -20 degrees Celsius. 

Stylish Pullover

The choice of which thermal wear to be used also differs according to the season and intention of the visit. If one visits Iceland in December for adventurous purposes, the type of thermal carried should be full-sleeved and it should be used as a base layer whereas Mumbai’s December can have the thermal base layer being used directly as a Tee!

Kosha’s thermal wear is super stylish, it also allows plenty of free flow of movements making it a suitable choice for any occasion. Wear these for taking a stroll across a park, or maybe with outerwear during a ski trek or a snow hike!

Can thermals be worn alone?

Yes, thermals can be worn alone, but it depends on the weather conditions. If the weather is not too cold, then thermals can be worn alone as a base layer. However, if the weather is very cold, then thermals should be worn under another layer of clothing.

Thermals are designed to wick away moisture and keep you dry. This is important in cold weather, as sweat can cool you down and make you feel cold. However, thermals are not very thick, so they will not provide much insulation on their own.

If you are going to wear thermals alone, then you should choose a pair that is made from a thick, moisture-wicking fabric. You should also choose a pair that is not too tight, as this can restrict your movement and make you feel uncomfortable.

Do thermals need to be washed?

Yes, thermals need to be washed, but not as often as you might think. Merino wool thermals can be worn for up to 3 days without washing, as they are naturally odor-resistant. However, if you sweat a lot or if you get them dirty, then you should wash them sooner.

Frequent washing can damage the fibers in merino wool, so it is important to wash them gently. You should also use a mild detergent and cold water.

Conclusion

Thermal clothing is an essential part of any winter wardrobe, and Kosha is a great place to find high-quality thermals and base layers. Kosha's thermals are made from a blend of merino wool and polyester, which makes them soft, warm, and moisture-wicking. They are also temperature-regulating, so you stay comfortable even when the temperature fluctuates.

If you are looking for thermal clothing that will keep you warm and comfortable in cold weather, Kosha is the perfect place to shop. Their thermals are made from high-quality materials and are designed to last. Plus, Kosha offers a free consultation service, so you can get help choosing the right thermals for your needs.

For any queries related to wearing thermals, base layers, or winter wear in general, visit Kosha’s store and get a free consultation! While you’re at it, check out Kosha’s website for the wide range of thermals and base layers available at Kosha.

This blog article is written by Kosha Team Member – Sanika Totade.