Thermal versus thermo-active clothing - what's the difference and which type to choose?
Some people are convinced that thermal and thermal clothing are the same thing and their names can be used interchangeably. However, this is a misconception and they are in fact two different types of clothing with different purposes.
In this guide you will learn the differences between thermal and thermo-active clothing. We will also tell you which one to choose depending on the activity you are undertaking.
How does thermoactive clothing work and what is it?
Thermo-active clothing is one whose main tasks are to provide the wearer with thermal insulation and to wick away perspiration generated during exercise. It is important to note thatwearing such clothing will not make you stop sweating. Its primary purpose is to wick excess moisture away from the body during intense physical activity, rather than to eliminate sweat production itself.
Importantly, this type of clothing does not heat up like thermal clothing, but helps to maintain the correct body temperature during activity. It thus protects against overheating and undercooling.
Thermoactive clothing is usually made of fully synthetic materials, although there are also thermoactive products on the market made from a mix of natural and synthetic fabrics and all-natural products, such as those made from merino wool.
Amongst the thermal clothing there are: T-shirts, trousers, underwear sets, sweatshirts and caps and gloves.
Read our other article and find out in detail, how thermoactive clothing works on the example of underwear!
What is thermal clothing and how does it work?
The main function of thermal clothing is to insulate and protect the wearer from the cold. It traps the heat generated by the body and keeps it next to the skin. This makes it very warm and comfortable. It provides a high level of protection against hypothermia, but wicks sweat away from the skin to a much lesser extent than thermal clothing.
Thermal clothing is made from a densely structured material with high heat insulation, usually wool, cotton or a combination of synthetic fibres.
When to choose thermo-active clothing and when to choose thermal clothing?
If you are considering whether to buy thermal or thermoactive clothing, you need to remember that thermal provides very good protection against the cold, but does not wick away moisture as well as thermoactive clothing. Thermal clothing, on the other hand, is not designed to provide very intense warmth, but mainly to wick away perspiration.
Thermoactive clothing is worth using for any activity where the body works intensively and excessive perspiration is likely. Wicking away perspiration and regulating body temperature are its main functions. Whether it's for a summer run, an autumn hike or a winter ski trip, thermal clothing is suitable to wear all year round, whatever the season. It is a good choice to wear for cross-country training, the gym, mountain hiking, climbing and other intense activities.
Thermal clothing, on the other hand, is a good choice for more static activities where not a lot of sweat is emitted. It is designed primarily to provide warmth. Wicking is generally low and therefore not suitable for intensive sports. It is a good choice for a winter walk or a camping trip during the colder months. This type of garment is also a good choice for people who have circulation problems and need extra warmth.
Remember that the main purpose of thermal clothing is to protect you from the cold and wind, so we do not recommend it for summer or even warm spring. You will simply be too hot in it, you will get sweaty and you will not feel comfortable in it.
Key differences between thermal and thermo-active clothing - summary
In the table below, we summarise the differences between thermal and thermo-active clothing:
| Thermo-active clothing | Thermal clothing | |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Maintains body temperature at an optimal level and wicks moisture (sweat) away | Guarantees a high level of thermal insulation and protects against the cold, but does not wick away moisture as effectively as thermal clothing |
| Material | Synthetic and natural materials (Merino wool) | Usually cotton, wool or synthetic fibres |
| Type of activity | Designed for intense activities where sweat production is increased | Designed for more static activities when high thermal insulation is required and sweat-wicking is not the most important function |
Offer of thermoactive and thermal clothing at MILITARY.PL
Do you already know the difference between thermal and thermo-active clothing and want to purchase these types of products for yourself?
MILITARY.PL offers a wide range of thermal clothing for both men and women. In our range you can find: breathable underwear, T-shirts and clothing such as sweatshirts. In addition, we provide scarves and hats. We also offer thermal clothing to keep you pleasantly warm on colder days.
All the products we offer come from reputable Polish and foreign manufacturers specialising in the production of sports and survival clothing. We have clothing from brands such as Texar, Helikon, Under Armour and many others.
