Even in February, investing in thermalwear just makes good (fashion) sense
Pictured, from left, 2(X)ist Tartan, Frank Dandy Cavaleras, Proskins Active
and C-IN2 Prime.
Body-baring briefs are summer’s sexy staple, but even during a mild winter, you can still look fabulous. To keep you covered up, comfortable and totally cute, we picked our fave long underwear looks — even if you don’t need to stay warm, it’s nice to look hot.
— Mikey Rox
2(X)IST Tartan
Whether you call them thermal underwear or long johns (which get their nickname from the late-19th century heavyweight boxer John L. Sullivan because he wore similar looking garments in the ring), there are days when you need a double layer of protection against the elements on super-cold days. When they arrive, you can be ready with the 2(s)ist Tartan collection of separates (in red, black, or white) that include well-fitted long johns and long-sleeve henleys. ($25.50; available at Shop.2xist.com)
Frank Dandy Cavaleras
If you’re the type who likes to stand out even in your extended skivvies, Frank Dandy’s your man. The Cavaleras long john features a detailed skull pattern in various shapes and colors on a grey background, both festive and fitting for at-home scary-movie screenings in the dead of winter. The comfortable red jacquard microfiber waistband is embellished with a repeated Frank Dandy logo in light blue, and it has a bit of give just in case you stuff your face with too many munchies. ($59; available at MensUnderwearStore.com)
C-IN2 Prime
For long johns that perform as well on the slopes as they do under the sheets, C-IN2 has the market on lock. Its Prime collection is composed of soft cotton-modal fabric, providing a lightweight, body-warming, breathable undergarment that maintains its shape and support no matter your extra-curricular activities. C-IN2 Prime long johns also features a slim-fitting leg, allowing them to be worn under pants without adding extra bulk. Colors: violet, navy, hemp, grey and red. ($50; available at MensUnderwearStore.com)
Proskins Active Compression
Proskins Active Compression leggings and long-sleeve crew tops aren’t long underwear in the traditional sense — no easy-access flap in the front and they’re not made of cotton — but what they lack in old-school style is compensated for in high-performance design. Made from an innovative tech yarn, Proskins are light, smooth and aerodynamic, which reduces muscle fatigue during those cold-weather workouts and enables quicker muscle recovery after sports. These skin-tight suits also help enhance blood flow and suppress lactic acid to help muscles perform at their peak. Whether you’re flying down a double black diamond on the slopes or going for a jog around the gayborhood, Proskins will keep you covered and cozy. ($75-$80; available at ProskinsUS.com)
N2N Bodywear Campfire Cropped
For guys who like to stand out in style even in their long underwear, N2N delivers the Bodywear Campfire Cropped long john, which offers a comfortable athletic fit with a short leg that stops just below the knee. This collection is designed specifically for warmer weather — like those chilly nights in the desert — but the lightweight waffle-weave cotton stays breathable and absorbent to keep you dry as the temperature rises. This cropped long john also features a low rise, perfect for studs packin’ heat, and a small N2N logo tab on the front waistband. ($30; available at MensUnderwearStore.com)
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition February 14, 2014.
