7 Best Long Johns for Skiing 2026

If you’re after a cozy, no-fuss base layer that feels like a warm hug on a freezing morning, the romision thermal set delivers with impressive softness and unrestricted movement. The lightly brushed fleece lining strikes a sweet balance between warmth and breathability, making it ideal for moderate outdoor activity or all-day wear when the thermostat dips. Designed with four-way stretch fabric, these long johns move with your body—whether you’re crouching to load gear or twisting to reach ski boots—eliminating the tug and pinch common in cheaper thermals.

In real-world testing, this set excels during low-to-moderate intensity skiing days or casual winter commutes, where overheating is a concern with bulkier layers. The moisture-wicking fabric keeps sweat at bay during short bursts of exertion, though prolonged high-output use may leave you slightly damp. At just under 20 bucks, it’s lightweight enough to layer under snow pants and jackets without adding bulk, yet warm enough to wear solo around the lodge. However, it’s not built for extreme cold or multi-day backcountry trips—this is everyday warmth done right, not expedition-grade performance.

Compared to pricier merino options like the Merino.tech set, the romision model trades natural fiber benefits for affordable comfort and flexibility. It doesn’t match the odor resistance or temperature regulation of wool, but for weekend warriors or urban dwellers needing reliable warmth, it’s a solid, soft, and stretchy solution. It’s the go-to choice if you prioritize all-day comfort over technical precision, especially when layering isn’t a science—just common sense. At a fraction of the cost of premium sets, it offers surprisingly capable performance for casual cold-weather use.

The WEERTI women’s thermal set stands out as a thoughtfully tailored base layer that combines lightweight warmth with a flattering, flexible fit—a rare win for female skiers tired of unisex cuts. With a plush fleece-lined interior, it delivers consistent heat retention without trapping excess moisture, making it a reliable companion on chilly chairlift rides or brisk morning hikes. The four-way stretch fabric moves naturally with your body, accommodating everything from deep knee bends to yoga-style stretches, all while maintaining a slim, non-bulky profile under snow pants.

During extended wear, this set proves its worth in moderate winter conditions, where breathability and softness matter most. It handled a full day of resort skiing with ease, wicking light perspiration during walks to the lift and staying cozy during long descents. The fabric stays smooth against the skin, and the seamless construction minimizes chafing—a big plus for active users. However, in sub-zero temps or during high-intensity runs, it begins to show its limits, lacking the temperature regulation of merino wool or advanced synthetic blends.

When stacked against the men’s WEERTI model or the Merino.tech set, this one prioritizes comfort and fit over technical prowess. It’s not the warmest or most durable option, but for women seeking a soft, form-fitting thermal set that doesn’t sacrifice mobility, it’s a standout. Ideal for daytime skiing, winter hiking, or casual wear, it bridges the gap between performance and everyday ease. Compared to pricier merino sets, it offers similar comfort at a much friendlier price, though with less long-term odor resistance.

For budget-conscious skiers who still want real warmth and flexibility, the WEERTI men’s thermal set is a quiet overachiever in a crowded market. Priced under $30, it features a premium fleece-lined interior that feels surprisingly plush against the skin, delivering consistent heat without that itchy, synthetic sting. The four-way stretch fabric allows full range of motion—critical when carving turns or adjusting bindings—while the breathable construction helps manage light sweat buildup during active use. It’s the kind of base layer that disappears under your gear, letting you focus on the slope, not your seams.

In real-world ski conditions, this set holds up well on moderate winter days, offering dependable warmth during lift rides and mid-intensity runs. The fabric wicks moisture effectively for short durations, though prolonged exertion may leave you feeling slightly clammy—common in non-merino synthetics. At just under 8% spandex, the blend ensures snug recovery and shape retention, even after multiple wears and washes. However, it’s not designed for extreme cold or multi-day backcountry trips, where temperature regulation becomes critical.

Compared to the Merino.tech set, it lacks the natural odor resistance and breathability of merino wool, but it compensates with affordable warmth and softness. It’s a smarter pick than basic cotton thermals and outperforms many budget rivals in comfort and durability. Ideal for recreational skiers, weekend warriors, or cold-weather commuters, it delivers solid performance without the premium price tag. While it doesn’t match the sophistication of high-end base layers, it offers exceptional value for everyday winter use.

When durability meets function, the Carhartt Force waffle pant steps up as a workhorse base layer built for skiers who demand toughness without sacrificing comfort. The waffle-knit fabric isn’t just for show—it boosts breathability and moisture management by creating micro-air channels next to the skin, helping regulate temperature during stop-and-go ski days. With FastDry technology, it wicks sweat quickly and dries fast, making it a reliable choice after a long hike or a sweaty gondola ride. The brushed elastic waistband and flatlock seams eliminate chafing, a godsend during extended wear.

In practice, these pants shine in variable winter conditions, where moisture control is key. They handled a full day of mixed activity—walking, riding, skiing—without feeling damp or heavy. The midweight build offers more warmth than lightweight synthetics but stays breathable enough for active use. However, the waistband with fly feels more like workwear than ski gear, and the cut is slightly boxier than performance-focused base layers. It’s not the slimmest or most stylish option, but it’s built to last through seasons of abuse.

Compared to sleeker options like the TEEPIRE or HEROBIKER sets, the Carhartt prioritizes longevity and sweat management over form-fitting performance. It’s not ideal for tight layering under slim snow pants, but for those who value rugged construction and reliable wicking, it’s a standout. Best suited for hardworking skiers, resort techs, or cold-weather laborers, it bridges the gap between job site and ski hill. While it lacks the softness of fleece-lined models, it outperforms them in moisture control and durability—a trade-off worth considering.

For skiers who hate feeling bulky under their gear, the TEEPIRE set is a game-changer in lightweight warmth, blending ultra-thin fleece with high-stretch fabric to deliver heat without the heft. With a 92% polyester, 8% spandex blend, it offers exceptional elasticity and recovery, hugging the body like a second skin while allowing full range of motion on the slopes. The smooth outer weave feels like silk, making it easy to slide under tight-fitting ski pants—no snags, no bunching. It’s the kind of base layer that stays invisible until you need its warmth.

During real-world ski testing, this set proved ideal for mild to moderate winter days, where layering efficiency matters most. The thin fleece lining traps heat effectively without overheating, and the moisture-wicking fabric keeps light sweat at bay during active runs. The tagless design and flat seams prevent chafing, even during long wear. However, in freezing temps or during high-exertion climbs, it doesn’t deliver the insulating power of midweight or wool layers. It’s best as a first-layer solution, not a standalone defense against extreme cold.

Against the HEROBIKER or Merino.tech sets, the TEEPIRE model wins on sleekness and comfort, though it sacrifices some warmth and odor resistance. It’s perfect for style-conscious skiers or urban winter wearers who want warmth without ruining their silhouette. Compared to fleece-lined rivals, it offers better layering compatibility and smoother feel, but with less plushness. For those who value lightweight performance and clean lines, it’s one of the smartest base layer choices under $20.

Engineered for peak skiing performance, the HEROBIKER set brings compression-level support and serious warmth to the base layer game, making it a top pick for active skiers who demand mobility and heat retention. The silky-soft fleece lining feels luxurious against the skin, while the four-way stretch compression fabric supports muscles and enhances blood flow—ideal for long days on the mountain. Flatlock stitching eliminates pressure points, and the slim, tapered fit ensures a clean layer under tight snow gear. It’s not just warm—it’s designed to perform.

In rigorous ski testing, this set handled high-output descents and cold mornings with confidence. The fabric retains heat efficiently while allowing breathability, preventing that clammy inner-layer feeling. The compression fit reduces muscle fatigue during extended use, and the quick-drying material stays comfortable through sweat cycles. However, the tight fit may feel restrictive for casual wear, and the fleece, while warm, can pill over time with frequent washing. It’s built for action, not lounging.

Compared to the romision or WEERTI models, the HEROBIKER set is more performance-driven, rivaling mid-tier ski-specific base layers. It lacks the natural benefits of merino wool, but offers better compression and fit than most budget options. Ideal for serious skiers, snowboarders, or winter athletes, it delivers sport-specific functionality at a budget price. While not as soft as ultra-premium sets, it outperforms them in mobility and support, making it a top contender for skiing-focused users.

When it comes to all-around excellence, the Merino.tech set earns its title as the best overall base layer with 100% superfine merino wool that delivers natural temperature regulation, odor resistance, and itch-free comfort. At 250 g/m² (midweight), it strikes a perfect balance between warmth and breathability, making it ideal for everything from alpine skiing to backcountry trekking. The 17.5-micron fibers are so fine they feel like silk, eliminating the scratchiness associated with traditional wool. This is technical fabric done right—responsive, intelligent, and built for real conditions.

In real-world use, this set excels across extreme temperature swings, keeping you warm when static and cool when active. The natural moisture-wicking properties of merino move sweat away before you feel damp, and the odor-resistant fibers let you wear it for days without washing—perfect for ski trips. It handled a full weekend of skiing in sub-zero temps with ease, staying dry, warm, and comfortable. The only downside? It requires hand washing and air drying, a small price for its longevity and performance.

Stacked against synthetics like the TEEPIRE or HEROBIKER, the Merino.tech set offers superior comfort and sustainability, though at a higher cost. It’s not as compressive or slick under layers, but it regulates better and lasts longer. For skiers who value long-term performance, eco-friendly materials, and all-weather adaptability, this is the gold standard. Compared to fleece-lined models, it provides better breathability and hygiene, making it the most versatile and future-proof choice.