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Best Men's Thermal Underwear Tops

Updated January 2023
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Smartwool Men's Merino 250 Base Layer Crew
Smartwool
Men's Merino 250 Base Layer Crew
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Top Quality
Bottom Line

This crewneck top made of pure merino wool has been our fitness expert’s go-to choice for years.

Pros

Made of 100% merino wool. Slim silhouette works great for layering. Allows unrestricted motion. Special weave for heat retention, breathability, and sweat wicking. Comfortable flatlock seams.

Cons

On the expensive side for a single top.

Best Bang for the Buck
Indera Men's Traditional Long Johns Thermal Underwear Top
Indera
Men's Traditional Long Johns Thermal Underwear Top
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Most Versatile
Bottom Line

The traditional cut and long-ribbed cuffs earn kudos from our fitness expert.

Pros

Classic waffle pattern looks fashionable and is efficient at keeping warmth where you want it. Sleeves have elastic bands at the wrists that are form-fitting and help keep heat from escaping. Tagless label keeps you from itching when you wear it.

Cons

While warm enough for moderate climates, shirt may not provide enough warmth for anything below 30 degrees.

Duofold Men's Mid-Weight Wicking Crew Neck Top
Duofold
Men's Mid-Weight Wicking Crew Neck Top
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Favored Warmth
Bottom Line

Our fitness expert approves of the dual-layer fabric of this top from a renowned brand.

Pros

Comfortable cotton-polyester blend feels good against the body. Double-layer fabric adds comfort and warmth without bulk, which our expert likes. Moisture-wicking capability. Tag-free with flat-lock seams to avoid irritation.

Cons

Not designed for intense outdoor activity.

Carhartt Base Force Mid-Weight Classic Crew
Carhartt
Base Force Mid-Weight Classic Crew
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Warm Workwear
Bottom Line

The classic weave and versatility of Carhartt's base-layer top earn it our expert's praise.

Pros

Classic waffle weave traps heat close to the skin. Includes fast-drying and sweat-wicking technology. Designed to flex for ease of movement. Boasts thumb loops to prevent sleeves riding up.

Cons

Can seem short for the size.

Thermajohn Men's Ultra Soft V-Neck Thermal Underwear Shirt
Thermajohn
Men's Ultra Soft V-Neck Thermal Underwear Shirt
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Thin & Light
Bottom Line

Thinner and lighter for hiking or camping in cool but not cold weather, says our expert.

Pros

Made of 92% polyester with 8% spandex for a four-way stretch. Very lightweight, and fits well under layers. Soft and delicate fleece lining for warmth. Designed to reduce chafing.

Cons

A few people report it runs small, especially around the arms.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

30
Models
Considered
210
Consumers
Consulted
8
Hours
Researched
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