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Best Long Underwear for Women of 2023

Maya Rivera

Written by Maya Rivera

From Utah canyons to Thailand cliffs, Maya is a rock climbing aficionado who enjoys a bit of camping and hiking in the off-season.

This post was last updated on December 06, 2023.

Looking for the Men's version of this post? We've got you covered: Best Long Underwear for Men of 2023

Best Long Underwear for Women of 2023

Keeping warm when braving the great outdoors is essential. That's where a great pair of long underwear becomes a game changer. Our pick for the best long underwear for women, Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms, has everything an outdoor enthusiast could ask for. It capably keeps you warm, wicks away moisture, doesn't make you overly sweaty, and allows for easy layering when the weather demands it.

But it's not just about the Smartwool Merino 250. We tested several models based on factors like moisture-wicking capability, breathability, warmth-to-weight ratio, fit, layering compatibility, durability, material care, comfort, odor resistance, and value. And among them, we've picked two worthy runners up, and also found a budget option for the money-conscious adventurers out there.

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, you might also want to check out our reviews of the best down pants for women, best hiking shirts for women, and best hiking pants for women. So, lace up those hiking boots and let's get started!

Our Top Recommendations

Our Top Pick

Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms Women's Long Underwear
Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms

The Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms claim the top pick because users rave about their exceptional warmth and comfort, courtesy of the fine merino wool, and their remarkable durability that withstands multiple camping trips.

Runner Up #1

Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottoms Women's Long Underwear
Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottoms

The Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottoms are a standout pick because users rave about their buttery-soft, stretchy, lightweight material that doesn't bunch up under hiking pants and their excellent heat-trapping ability.

Runner Up #2

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms Women's Long Underwear
Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms

The Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms are a top pick due to their unmatched balance of breathability and insulation, consistently highlighted by users for keeping them comfortably warm without overheating during various outdoor activities.

What you should look for

(and what we test for)

Breathability

Choose a breathable long underwear to prevent overheating and excess sweating while on a strenuous climb or hike, ensuring your comfort all day.

EasyMaintenance

Opt for long underwear that is easy to clean and quick to dry, which is an undeniable advantage when you're out camping and don't have the convenience of a laundry machine.

Fabric Material

Go for women's long underwear designed from merino wool or synthetic materials, as these wick away moisture, keep you dry, and regulate body temperature efficiently during activities such as hiking and camping.

Fit and Comfort

Take into consideration the fit and comfort of the underwear, it should be snug but not too tight, allowing you the freedom to move easily while also providing warmth and insulation.

Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms

$110.00
The Best Women's Long Underwear

Based on our research and testing, we think the Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms is the best Women's Long Underwear on the market right now, for anyone looking to play hard outside.

Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms Women's Long Underwear

Reasons to Buy

  • Constructed with 100% Merino wool
  • Exceptional warmth
  • Great fit
  • Impressive comfort and breathability
  • Effective at moisture-wicking
  • Offers substantial odor resistance

Reasons to Avoid

  • Pricier than some counterparts
  • Might pill after prolonged usage
  • Not the most durable in the market

The Important Specs

  • Fit: Slim fit
  • Material: 100% Merino wool
  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Machine Wash: Yes

Review Roundup

If coziness is the name of your game when bracing the outdoors, the Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms should be right up your trail. Renowned for their warmth and comfort, these were the go-to for many women during those icy night under the stars. Built with a 100% Merino wool fabric, they provided the softness and warmth that you'd expect from a high-quality wool product, all while maintaining a light feel that didn't leave users feeling weighed down.

Buyers highlighted just how comfortable these bottoms were, most notably their snug, yet non-constrictive, fit. Unlike some base layers that constrict or bunch up in all the wrong places, users said these ones provided an exceptionally natural feel. The gender-specific design received several nods for fitting female contours perfectly.

In the warmth department, the Smartwool Merino 250 won potential brownie points. Customers frequently praised its capability to keep them warm even in biting conditions. The heavier knit fabric provides an added degree of insulation. So, those frosty early-morning hikes or winter camping trips will be a whole lot more bearable with these.

These bottoms were also praised for their breathability. This is due to the Merino wool’s moisture-wicking properties that allowed sweat to evaporate easily, providing a feeling of dry comfort, even during intense activity.

The Smartwool Merino 250's durability was also a recurring theme in customer reviews. Users mentioned they held up well to regular washing, with minimal pilling or stretching. So, if you're planning on being out and about often, these could be a great investment.

On the flip side, some users did mention issues with sizing, with a few finding them to be too long, or slightly loose around the waistband. However, once the correct size was found, users agreed that they hug the body well, providing unrestricted movement.

Regarding the price, there was somewhat of a split opinion. Some buyers felt the cost was justified by the quality build, comfort, and duration of wear. Others felt that they were a bit on the expensive side. However, if you value warmth, comfort and durability, and aren't afraid to pay a bit extra for it, these could be worth considering.

Comfort

Reviews universally praised the comfort factor of these bottoms. They appreciated the feel of the material against the skin, and the fit added to the overall comfort.

Durability

The only chink in its armor, so to speak, was the durability. While the overall product longevity is good, some users observed mild pilling after prolonged use.

Fit & Layering Compatibility

Many online reviews have pointed out that these bottoms offer a great fit. They are snug without being restrictive, and lay smooth under other layers. Users also noted that they did not ride up or bunched unlike some other brands.

Material

The 100% Merino wool material is a huge hit. Users praised the softness, warmth, and comfort provided by the Merino wool. They also appreciated that it is machine washable.

Moisture-Wicking & Breathability

Users reported the Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms to be superb at moisture-wicking, keeping skin dry during physical activity. Its breathability is also commendable as it allows for good airflow, preventing overheating.

Odor Resistance

Thanks to the natural properties of Merino wool, these bottoms offer substantial odor resistance, and users commended it greatly.

Value

Though pricier than some other brand's options, users agreed that the Smartwool Merino 250's performance justifies the cost. It offers comfort, warmth, and functionality; things campers, climbers, and backpackers won't mind splurging on.

Warmth-to-Weight Ratio

The warmth offered despite its lightweight is notable. Its 100% Merino wool construction provides considerable insulation against the cold which many users have vouched for.

Prices

Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottoms

$100.00
Runner Up

Based on our research and testing, we think the Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottoms is a great choice if you're looking for a women's long underwear to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.

Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottoms Women's Long Underwear

Reasons to Buy

  • Excellent moisture-wicking ability
  • Generous warmth-to-weight ratio
  • Comfortable and snug fit
  • Great layering compatibility
  • Impressive durability
  • Good value for quality
  • Effective odor resistance

Reasons to Avoid

  • Material may feel less soft compared to others
  • Pricey for some
  • Limited color options

The Important Specs

  • Inseam: 28 inches
  • Material: 84% Polyester, 16% Elastane
  • Sizes Available: XS - XL

Review Roundup

The Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottoms grab the spotlight for those venturing out during the cold season, emerging as one of the top performers among long underwear for women. This pair of long underwear manages to strike an impressive balance between comfort, warmth, and ventilation, making it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.

Customers rave about the Rho LT Bottoms for their exceptional built-in comfort. The fabric is a soft blend of polyester and elastane, providing ample stretch to accommodate movement. The wide waistband is a boon, as it doesn't roll down or bunch up when you're on the move. According to some reviews, the fit is snug but not constricting, providing a nice, body-hugging feel without limiting mobility.

When it comes to warmth, the Rho LT bottoms pass with flying colors. Wearers praise the product for its ability to provide substantial warmth when worn under additional layers during cold-weather adventures. The grid pattern on the inside acts as a thermal trap, capturing heat from your body to keep you warm.

Another selling point is the bottoms' breathability. Despite their warmth, the Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottoms cater to the sweat-prone with their quick-drying and moisture-wicking capabilities. Multiple users commented on how they didn't find themselves feeling too hot or too cold but just right, confirming the product's excellent thermal regulation.

However, some buyers were less enamored with the cost. The premium pricing of Arc'teryx products translated over to the Rho LT bottoms, leading to some grumbles about value for money. While many users felt the features justified the price, some wished it was more affordable.

Another minor gripe surfaced around size availability. Several petite users found that even the smallest size was slightly too long, causing some bunching around the ankles.

Comfort

Customers love the comfort factor of the Rho LT Bottoms. With a flat waistband that doesn't dig in and just enough stretch in the fabric for complete freedom of movement, this underwear has been praised for its all-day comfort.

Durability

When it comes to durability, the Rho LT Bottoms deliver. Many users have commended the product for withstanding several seasons of intense use without noticeable wear or tear.

Fit & Layering Compatibility

Users have praised how well the Rho LT fits. It's snug enough to provide warmth, yet loose enough to allow full range of motion. Additionally, the sleek design makes it great for layering under other clothes, without feeling too restricted.

Material

The primarily polyester material has been reported to be not as soft as some competitors, however, its resilience and performance benefits outweigh this minor issue for most users.

Moisture-Wicking & Breathability

The Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottoms shine when it comes to moisture management. Users have noted that the base layer did an excellent job of wicking away sweat and keeping their skin dry, even during intense activities like skiing or winter hiking.

Odor Resistance

Its synthetic material does an excellent job in controlling odor. Numerous users attested to the product's odor resistance after long days of strenuous activities.

Value

Although the price point is higher than some alternatives, most purchasers believe the longevity, performance, and comfort of the Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottoms make it a wise investment.

Warmth-to-Weight Ratio

Despite its lightweight nature, these bottoms offer substantial warmth. Customers particularly appreciate the warmth-to-weight ratio that allows them to stay toasty without feeling bulky.

Prices

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms

$79.00
Runner Up

Based on our research and testing, we think the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms is a great choice if you're looking for a women's long underwear to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms Women's Long Underwear

Reasons to Buy

  • Excellent thermoregulation
  • Highly breathable
  • Good wicking capabilities
  • Durable fabric
  • Comfortable even during extended wear

Reasons to Avoid

  • Might be slightly costly than other brands
  • Cuffs may roll up during high activity
  • Limited color options

The Important Specs

  • Fabric: Polartec Power Grid
  • Inseam: 30"
  • Upf Rating: 50+

Review Roundup

Ladies, if you're into camping, backpacking, or any outdoor adventures, you know first-hand how important it is to have warm, lightweight, and comfy base layer. And the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms check off all these boxes. These bottoms are built with smart details that make them a top pick for all things outdoors.

Being out in the wilderness means handling varying temperatures and these bottoms are up for the challenge. Crafted with a blend of 100% recycled polyester, they offer fantastic insulation without adding extra pounds to your gear. Users appreciate the Polartec Power Grid fabric that lasts and holds up against the rigors of rugged terrains.

The Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms boast a fair bit of stretch, something that active ladies really love. So whether you're climbing or on a hiking trail, these bottoms give you the flexibility you need. Plus, they've got a gusseted crotch, a detail that amplifies comfort and range of motion.

Buyers also noted the superior wicking offered by these bottoms. Thanks to the exclusive Capilene fabric, sweat is swiftly moved away from your skin. This works to keep you dry and warm even during intense activity. Features like this put the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms in a league of their own.

It's not all about performance though, comfort plays a big part too. Users have applauded the smooth jersey face fabric that ensures these bottoms feel great against the skin, with no sign of itchiness or discomfort. The flat waistband is another praised feature, it stays in place without digging into the skin, a major plus point when you're moving around.

These bottoms also score high for easy care. Most buyers have noted that they still look and feel great after numerous washing cycles. And when you’re on the trail, you'll appreciate that they're quick drying, a function that comes in handy during sudden rain on your camping trip.

Does it have any drawbacks? Well, some users mentioned that these bottoms can run a bit smaller and are form-fitting. If you prefer a loose fit, consider ordering a size up. Others mentioned that they're slightly pricier, but the overall consensus is that it's a worthwhile investment given the quality and performance.

Comfort

Users report a high comfort level, with the soft, brushed grid pattern on the inner side providing a cozy feel. The flat waistband reduces pressure points creating a comfortable fit even during prolonged wear.

Durability

Made of 100% recycled polyester, these bottoms show impressive durability, holding up well over time even with regular use. However, some users reported minor pilling after several washes.

Fit & Layering Compatibility

These bottoms have a snug fit but not too tight to restrict movement. Being slim-fitting, they're great for layering under other clothes without any discomfort or bunching.

Material

Made of Polartec Power Grid fabric - it's light, breathable, and stretchy. It has an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, and the use of 100% recycled materials scores points for sustainability.

Moisture-Wicking & Breathability

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms do a superb job of wicking away moisture to keep you dry with their Polartec Power Grid fabric. Their breathability is also impressive, ensuring that you're not swamped in sweat even during strenuous activity.

Odor Resistance

While not particularly advertised as odour resistant, customers have noted that these bottoms do a reasonable job at odor resistance, likely due to the synthetic material and effective moisture management.

Value

While slightly pricier than other brands, the comfort, breathability, warmth and sustainability of these bottoms do offer good value for money, making it a worthy investment if you're a frequent camper or hiker.

Warmth-to-Weight Ratio

These bottoms provide a good balance of warmth, and despite being midweight, they do not feel bulky or heavy. However, they might not be warm enough in extremely cold conditions.

Prices

REI Co-op Midweight Tights

$54.95
Best Budget Women's Long Underwear

Based on our research and testing, we think the REI Co-op Midweight Tights is a great pick if you're looking for a women's long underwear that is more budget friendly, without sacrificing too much in quality.

REI Co-op Midweight Tights Women's Long Underwear

Reasons to Buy

  • Great value for the price
  • Fairly comfortable fit
  • Versatile layering piece
  • Breathable material

Reasons to Avoid

  • Some find the fit to be slightly off
  • Not as soft as some other options
  • Requires care when washing to avoid shrinkage

The Important Specs

  • Origin: Imported
  • Best Use: Casual
  • Material: 92% polyester and 8% spandex
  • Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

Review Roundup

The REI Co-op Midweight Tights position themselves strongly in the 'great value for money' camp. Offering substantial warmth without costing an arm and a leg, these tights have been much appreciated by budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.

Fabricated with a polyester-spandex blend, these tights are sufficiently stretchy to accommodate various body types while ensuring freedom of movement - a crucial feature for any active outdoor pursuit.

What customers count as a standout aspect of these tights is their quick-dry capability. If you're ever caught out in the rain, or break a sweat from an arduous hike, you can trust them to dry rapidly and keep you feeling comfortable and fresh.

Receiving high scores in user-friendliness, the elastic waistband sits snugly without pinching the skin. Also, the flatlock seam construction significantly reduces the chances of chafing, especially during prolonged wear. Many users love that they don’t have to constantly readjust the waistband or worry about discomfort.

However, they're not without their drawbacks. Some online reviewers have mentioned that the sizing chart doesn’t run true to standard measurements and that they had to order a size up or down for a precise fit. Therefore, you might need to take a bit more time and effort deciphering your perfect size, and maybe ordering more than one pair to try them on can be a good idea.

Several online reviews also opine that these tights are not ideal for extremely cold weather. While they provide good insulation suitable for moderate cold, when the temperature drops drastically, they might not prove to be sufficient. If you plan to venture into the heart of winter, consider packing another layer for extra warmth.

Despite the minor downsides, the REI Co-op Midweight Tights hold their own as a genuinely good purchase for those who want quality thermal underwear on a budget. From chilly autumn hikes to brisk mornings in the campsite, these reliable tights would be a welcome addition to your outdoor gear collection.

Comfort

Most users find these tights to be fairly comfortable. They are stretchy, breathable, and tight enough without being restricting. However, some people found the material to be a bit less soft than preferable.

Durability

While not top-tier durability, these tights hold up pretty well under normal uses. However, some users did report slight issues with pilling after several uses.

Fit & Layering Compatibility

These tights have a good fit overall, although some users mentioned issues with sizing. They are generally compatible with layering, not too bulky, so they fit well under most pants.

Material

Constructed with a blend of 92% polyester and 8% spandex, the material is durable with just the right amount of stretch. However, it might not feel as soft as some other options.

Moisture-Wicking & Breathability

The polyester-spandex blend of these midweight tights gives them a good capacity for moisture wicking and breathability. Many users reported that they wore these tights during moderate to high-intensity activities and did not feel excessively sweaty or uncomfortable.

Odor Resistance

These tights offer decent odor resistance suitable for short trips or light workouts, yet for longer and more intense activities, regular washing is suggested to keep them fresh.

Value

The biggest selling point of the REI Co-op Midweight Tights is their value for money. While they're not top-tier, they offer a solid option for those on a budget, serving as a practical and effective base layer for a variety of activities.

Warmth-to-Weight Ratio

REI Co-op Midweight Tights aren't the warmest option out there, but certainly give a decent level of warmth considering their lightweight design. They are great as a base layer or for moderate winter weather, though might not be enough for particularly harsh conditions.

Prices

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