E! illustration/Merino.TechIt's safe to say, winter is here to stay. It feels like we barely got to appreciate the autumnal vibes this year. It may feel like we're always saying that year after year, but this season feels different.
For folks who have been living in chilly weather for more than seven years, this feels almost nostalgic. We've had a few years of mild winters (especially in NYC), but that's apparently changing this time around.
We know we're already headed into a loooooong winter and a slow spring next year. It's officially time to get your thermal sets—if you don't have them already. Finding the right material and sets for you can be tricky. You're either overheating and bulky or lightweight and freezing. There's a balance to it.
That's why we've searched high and low across the online tundra to uncover thermal sets, shirts, and leggings that will keep you warm without looking bulky under your outfits—all according to cozy reviewers who would otherwise freeze.
From beloved brands like UNIQLO to affordable classics like Cuddl Duds, keep scrolling to shop the best thermal layers ranked by their ratings.
Cuddl Duds Fleece Lined Thermal Base Layer Set
Rating: 4.7/5 stars with 4,064 reviews.
Cuddl Duds is a beloved brand for affordable heavyweight thermal bases. It features a brushed fleece interior and a matte soft exterior. A reviewer writes: "The fabric is super warm and soft without making me feel sweaty or smothered! Buy these!"
Quince Whistler High-Rise Pocket Thermal Legging
Rating: 4.7/5 stars with 122 reviews.
Designed for cold-weather runs and workouts, these Quince thermal leggings (made with recycled fabric) have a cozy, brushed interior that provides extra warmth. "They kept me warm in below-zero temperatures," wrote a reviewer.
SIMIYA Thermal Underwear Set
Rating: 4.6/5 stars with 2,176 reviews.
The most affordable thermal set with over 2K reviews, the SIMIYA fleece set promises to keep you cozy with its air and heat insulation layer. "So comfortable and warm. Not so bulky under my clothing like others. Very soft against my skin, and they wash up great," a reviewer writes.
WEERTI Thermal Underwear
Rating: 4.5/5 stars with 12,223 reviews.
Featuring a plush fleece lining and a four-way stretch fabric, this top-rated thermal underwear set promises to keep you warm without adding any bulk to your outfit.
Bombas Merino Wool Blend Crew Neck Long Sleeve T-Shirt 3-Pack
Rating: 4.6/5 stars with 1,066 reviews.
If you love Bombas socks or slippers, you'll be obsessed with the super-soft brand's merino wool long-sleeve shirt. "Nice and lightweight, but warm. Perfect to wear alone, and in colder climates to layer under a sweater," writes a reviewer.
PISIQI Thermal Underwear
Rating: 4.6/5 stars with 1,031 reviews.
The thermal set that this shopping writer bought for herself this winter, I recommend this affordable pick for a lightweight thermal base that will keep you from freezing. "Soft, silky, feels so good next to your skin! And warm but not TOO warm— just right," a reviewer wrote.
Merino.tech Merino Wool Base Layer Women Set
Rating: 4.5/5 stars with 1,979 reviews.
Made with 100% super-fine merino wool, Merino.Tech's thermal base layer set comes in lightweight (165g) for all seasons, midweight (250g) for cold, and heavyweight (320m) for freezing to keep you warm no matter how cold it gets.
UNIQLO HEATTECH Cashmere Blend T-Shirt Turtleneck
Rating: 4.5/5 stars with 275 reviews.
Everyone's favorite thermal base, UNIQLO's HEATTECH is an iconic piece to have in your winter closet. The brand's signature thermal technology comes in three series: the OG HEATTECH for 41°F-68°F weather, Extra Warm for 23°F-59°F, and Ultra Warm -4°F-50°F.
Looking for more? Shop these chic and warm puffers!