Long cotton underpants or bamboo

Short answer: As a base layer under trousers, it is the moisture transport that decides whether you get cold. Cotton soaks up and gets wet, while bamboo viscose passes the moisture on.

The job of the base layer

The innermost layer has to keep the skin dry, not be thick. See bamboo long johns.

Cotton turns cold

If you have sweated on the way somewhere, a wet cotton layer turns cold once you stand still.

Wool as an alternative

Wool warms even when wet but scratches too much for many people. See bamboo compared with wool.

The thickness

A thin layer innermost warms more than a thick outer trouser on its own.

For whom

Outdoor work, cycling and standing still in the cold are the typical situations. See bamboo clothing for cold days.

Washing

Bamboo viscose has to stay at 40 degrees and out of the tumble dryer. See the washing guide.

See the range

See the whole group in bamboo underwear for men.

How many pairs

If you use a base layer daily in winter, at least three pairs are needed. Then you can wash without going short. See bamboo underwear for men.

Frequently asked questions

What is best as a base layer?

A layer that moves the moisture away from the skin rather than soaking it up.

Is wool better?

Wool warms even when wet but scratches too much for many people.

Does the base layer have to be thick?

No. It has to keep the skin dry, not be thick.