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Best Women's Long Underwear of 2024
This post was last updated on May 09, 2024.
If you don't yet own a pair of long underwear, now's your chance to grab the best piece of gear you don't yet have in your closet. Long underwear works great in a whole variety of outdoor situations.
We've done plenty of backcountry skiing in our long underwear, and some resort skiing too. We've lounged around in backcountry huts after a long day of backpacking and gotten compliments on our fashionable choices. The below long underwear are the ones we keep going back to.
Our Top Recommendations
Our Top Pick
Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms
Breathability
Comfort
Drying Speed
Fit
Warmth
Breathability |
7
|
Comfort |
8
|
Drying Speed |
6
|
Fit |
7
|
Warmth |
9
|
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
Breathability
Comfort
Drying Speed
Fit
Warmth
Breathability |
7
|
Comfort |
8
|
Drying Speed |
6
|
Fit |
8
|
Warmth |
9
|
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
Breathability
Comfort
Drying Speed
Fit
Warmth
Breathability |
7
|
Comfort |
8
|
Drying Speed |
7
|
Fit |
9
|
Warmth |
8
|
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
$100.00The 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.
Breathability |
7
|
Comfort |
8
|
Drying Speed |
6
|
Fit |
7
|
Warmth |
9
|
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
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.
Prices
Arc'teryx Rho LT Bottoms
$100.00Runner 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.
Breathability |
7
|
Comfort |
8
|
Drying Speed |
6
|
Fit |
8
|
Warmth |
9
|
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 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.
Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms
$79.00Runner 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.
Breathability |
7
|
Comfort |
8
|
Drying Speed |
7
|
Fit |
9
|
Warmth |
8
|
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
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.
Prices
REI Co-op Midweight Tights
$54.95Best 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.
Breathability |
7
|
Comfort |
8
|
Drying Speed |
6
|
Fit |
9
|
Warmth |
8
|
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 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.
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