Best thermals for women: base layers to keep you warm this winter

When it comes to reliable and effective base layers, Mumsnet users couldn’t speak more highly of the Uniqlo Heattech range, which is not only available in a range of colours and styles but comes with an affordable price tag too.

Lightweight enough to wear under everyday clothes, yet warm enough to really feel the difference, it’s no wonder they’re so popular. This long-sleeved scooped neck top is versatile enough to wear on its own, but thanks to its low neckline is also ideal for layering under a jumper or shirt for the ultimate cosiness.

Made from a polyester and acrylic mix, the fabric is soft, stretchy and moisture-wicking, whilst also being supremely comfortable. A must-have winter essential.

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If you need to pick up some thermal base layers but are on a more limited budget, Decathlon is a great place to start. Their affordable thermal base layer top comes in a choice of black and white - ideal for teaming up with their ski base layer bottoms and a pair of the best women's slippers for complete coverage when working from home in cold conditions. 

Long-sleeved and lightweight, with a flattering fitted shape, the crew neckline on this top makes it ideal for wearing alone, whilst also being discreet enough to layer under your winter woollies on particularly chilly days. We love the brushed interior and flat seams, although whilst it’s moisture-wicking, some reviewers felt it was a little on the thin side. 

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While this set may seem pricey, it includes a long sleeved top and a pair of long johns, so it actually works out decent value for money and has you fully covered – literally. Both pieces are crafted from 100% merino wool, which is super soft against the skin and offers excellent comfort and warmth.

A few reported that the leggings were quite long, so if you're tall, you may want to go for something else, but overall these are a fantastic buy, and we love that they come in a good range of sizes and colours. On icy days working from home, we'd pair them with a hot water bottle for extra toastiness.

For seriously toasty thermals, merino wool is certainly the best choice of fabric, providing warmth and protecting you from the elements without feeling bulky or making you sweaty and overheated.

These Merino Women’s Pants are made from naturally breathable high-quality wool to keep you warm and comfortable in all conditions, making them a practical choice for winter walks, hikes or everyday wear. The elastic waistband ensures they’ll stay put even when you’re at your most active, whilst the lightweight material makes them easy to store and quick drying when washed.

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When there’s an unpleasant chill in the air, a thermal top layered under your usual clothes can help trap heat and keep you warm and comfortable. Snug yet stretchy, these lightweight Heatgen Thermal Tops from M&S come with long sleeves and an attractive scooped neckline that makes a perfect base layer, retaining heat from your body whilst feeling super soft against your skin. 

They wash well at 40°C and dry quickly, but thanks to the handy two-pack, you can have a constant cycle so you won’t get cold when one’s in the wash. If you prefer a thicker design, M&S also offer similar tops in the Heatgen Plus range, even warmer for when the temperatures drop below zero.

Mumsnet users couldn’t speak more highly of Icebreaker thermals, which offer high-quality merino wool fabrics and are available in a range of thicknesses to suit every type of weather condition. This all-purpose base layer top is made from a breathable 100% merino wool which feels super soft to the touch. The high-performance fabric is moisture-wicking - helping regulate body temperature in all weather conditions and prevent sweating or odours. 

The number 175 refers to the weight of the wool - in this case, lightweight - but Icebreaker offers up to 380 for freezing or icy conditions. The stretchy slim fit is flattering on all body shapes, whilst the crew neck can easily become a non-visible layer under jumpers, sweats or even your blanket hoodie on the chilliest days.

Made from superfine merino wool and polyester, this 150 crew base layer is soft and comfortable against the skin, whilst being durable and hard-wearing for colder temperatures.

If you’ve previously found thermals too bulky or found that thicker seams are visible when layered under your clothes, the Rohan 150 Crew is a fab alternative. Unlike some other thermal designs, the seams on this top are flat-locked to prevent bulking or riding up under your clothes. It can easily be worn alone, or under thicker jumpers or fleeces to trap heat and maintain warmth on colder days.

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If you want to wear your favourite lightweight cardigan or slouchy jumper but are worried about feeling the chill, these practical thermal camisoles are perfect for layering, trapping your body heat to ensure you remain toasty warm when the temperatures drop.

Mumsnet users are big fans of Land’s End for their clothing that can withstand the elements. Made from stretchy jersey fabric with adjustable straps for the perfect fit, these moisture-wicking thermals are great for preventing overheating when moving between centrally heated environments and the outdoors, plus they look a little more stylish than some other thermals on our list. 

With a striking black leopard jacquard design and white contrasting trim, this stylish high-performance Sweaty Betty base layer is sure to be a popular choice for thermals both on and off the slopes - so long as you’re prepared to pay a premium price tag. 

A tight-fitting crew neck top with long sleeves, this seamless design offers excellent coverage without chaffing or rubbing your skin. Thanks to the intelligent moisture-wicking properties, you can also stay toasty warm whilst enjoying an active lifestyle without sweating or overheating. We'd pair with the best heated gilet for a stylish yet toasty on piste look.

There is nothing worse than having chilly feet, especially when working from home. A pair of thermal socks will ensure your feet are just as warm as the rest of your body, and when it comes to toasty toes, Heat Holders are highly recommended by Mumsnet users.

Whilst they may be thick to wear with shoes or boots, and the non-slip sole grips put them firmly in the slipper socks category, they are perfect for preventing icy toes all winter round, with a thermal tog rating of 2.3.

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If you still want to wear dresses and skirts as the seasons start to change but aren’t keen on the restrictive nature of thermal tights, these thermal knickers shorts make a great alternative. Providing additional coverage across your thighs, they can trap heat and stop cold air from getting in. 

This subtle, feminine design may not be the sexiest underwear you’ll ever own, but with an elasticated waist for comfort and an affordable price tag, they'll make a great addition to your winter wardrobe.

These Patra silk blend long johns combine the comfort of silk with the durability of modal to create a resilient yet luxurious base layer for chilly weather or outdoor adventures.

If you’re looking for thermals that can keep you warm whilst still feeling soft and luxurious, silk or silk blend thermals make a great choice for layering this winter and are kind and gentle on sensitive skin.

Naturally soft with double-layered cuffs to ensure a good fit, these long-john thermals not only look great but are easy to care for and maintain their shape after washing.

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