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If you live where winters dip below 32°F or you spend time outdoors, good long johns and the right socks can be a game changer. They’re not just about warmth — they control moisture, reduce chafing, and make layering comfortable. In this guide we'll walk through top US stores to buy long johns and socks, what to look for, and practical tips so you get the base layer that actually works for your life.
Uniqlo’s HeatTech line is famous for delivering warmth at a friendly price. If you want thin, soft thermals to wear under jeans or a suit, Uniqlo is a go-to. Sizes are straightforward and the fabric blends are lightweight, making them ideal for daily wear when temperatures hover around freezing or in the mid-30s°F.
L.L.Bean focuses on durability and practical warmth. Their long johns and wool-blend options are built for work and outdoors use. If you need something that holds up under heavy use — think working outside in the low 30s or layering for a weekend hunt — L.L.Bean’s offerings often include reinforced seams and a snug, comfy fit.
REI stocks a wide range of base layers from brands like Patagonia, Smartwool, and their own REI Co-op label. If you hike, ski, or camp in colder weather (teens to 40s°F), REI is a solid place to try materials and weights in person. Their staff can help match a base layer’s weight to your activity level, which is really helpful if you’re layering for a long day outside.
Patagonia blends durability with responsible materials. Their Capilene base layers wick well and are built for high-output activities. If you prefer eco-friendly options and plan to use your long johns for aerobic winter sports, Patagonia’s technical cuts are worth the investment.
For natural odor resistance and temperature regulation, Smartwool is hard to beat. Merino wool thermo layers keep you warm without overheating and work well across a range of temps — great if your day swings between 20°F and 50°F. Smartwool’s socks are also top-tier, pairing perfectly with base layers for winter comfort.
Under Armour’s ColdGear line focuses on athletic compression and moisture control. If you’re active — running, cycling, or training outside — Under Armour offers thin, snug pieces that dry fast and add a layer of muscle support. They’re popular with athletes and anyone who wants a performance-oriented fit.
Duluth Trading Co. makes long johns that are rugged and practical, often with reinforced knees and thicker fabric. If your winter work requires staying warm for long hours on site, Duluth’s designs aim to resist wear and tear while keeping you comfortable down to the teens or single-digit temperatures when layered properly.
For basic, everyday long johns and socks, Hanes and Fruit of the Loom are dependable and affordable. They won’t be the lightest or the most technical, but for casual use or as backup layers they do the job. These brands often come in multipacks, which is handy if you need several sets without breaking the bank.
If you prioritize softness, modern cuts, and a sleek fit, Tommy John and Calvin Klein offer premium underwear and long johns designed for daily comfort. The fabrics feel smooth next to the skin and the waistband designs tend to stay put, making them great for everyday wear under jeans or chinos.
Nordstrom and Macy’s carry a wide range of brands, from performance lines to fashion underwear. They’re useful if you want to compare several brands in one place and take advantage of sales. Nordstrom’s customer service is helpful when you’re deciding between similar options and want to test fit and fabric feel.
Merino wool is prized because it regulates temperature naturally and resists odor, so you can wear it for multiple days during a multi-day trip. It’s soft, breathable, and works from chilly 20s°F up into milder weather when paired with other layers. It’s more expensive but often worth it for comfort and odor control.
Polyester and nylon blends wick moisture away fast and dry quickly, which helps prevent chill mid-activity. These are great for high-output winter sports or work where you sweat. They’re also usually lighter and less expensive than merino, but they can hold odors more if not washed frequently.
Cotton feels soft and familiar, but it holds moisture and takes longer to dry. That makes it a poor choice for active use in cold weather because wet cotton chills you quickly. Cotton long johns are OK for sleep or very low-activity lounging at home when it’s cold but not ideal for outdoor work or exercise.
Lightweight thermals are thin and great for layering under pants without bulk. They work well when temperatures are in the 30s to 50s°F or when you’ll be active. Think of them as a base canvas you build on, not as the main source of warmth.
Midweight long johns balance warmth and mobility. They’re the go-to for everyday winter use, comfortable from the 20s to 40s°F when worn under jeans or work pants. If you want one pair that handles varied tasks, pick midweight.
Heavyweight base layers pack the most insulation and are best when you’ll be still for long periods in really cold weather — under 25°F or so. Hunters, ice fishers, and construction crews often choose heavyweight to stay warm while stationary.
Your long johns should fit close to the skin so moisture moves away efficiently, but not so tight that movement is restricted. A bad fit can bunch up or rub under other layers, causing discomfort. Look for sizes based on your waist and chest measurements rather than guesswork.
Flatlock seams sit flat and reduce chafing — especially important if you’re active. A gusset in the crotch area improves mobility and reduces seam tension, which is handy for hiking or climbing.
Some long johns offer a fly for convenience, and wide elastic waistbands stay put without pinching. If you prefer underwear-like features, choose a pair with a well-constructed waistband and a functional fly.
Merino wool socks match merino long johns perfectly: they trap warmth, wick moisture, and resist odor. A midweight merino sock with some cushioning keeps feet comfortable all day if you’re walking or standing in cold conditions.
Socks made from polyester or nylon blends wick faster and dry quickly. They’re ideal for activities where your feet sweat, like trail running or snowshoeing. Go for socks with ventilation panels and reinforced heels if you plan long days in boots.
Light cushion is great for everyday and dressier shoes; medium cushion works for hiking shoes and all-day comfort; heavy cushion provides extra padding for long treks or very cold days. Match cushioning to your activity and boot thickness.
When in doubt, try the brand’s sizing chart — waist and inseam in inches are key. If you’ll layer over the long johns, ensure outer pants still fit comfortably with a midweight base layer underneath. A rule of thumb: base layer should move with you without extra bulk, so pick a snug fit rather than loose. If shopping online, read reviews about fit and stretch — many buyers will say if items run small or large.
Start with your long johns next to the skin, add an insulating layer like a fleece or down vest, and finish with a weatherproof shell if wind or precipitation is present. This three-layer system lets you remove layers as you warm up, avoiding sweat buildup that leads to chill.
If you're moving a lot, go lighter on insulation; if you're mostly stationary, add more warmth. For high-output tasks in 20–40°F weather, a lightweight base with a thin mid-layer can be perfect. For standing still in single digits, add heavyweight insulation and merino layers to trap heat.
Think about use frequency and conditions. If you spend long hours outside or travel often, investing in merino or premium technical layers pays off through comfort and longevity. If you only need occasional warmth, budget options from Hanes, Uniqlo, or Fruit of the Loom can work fine. Splurge smartly: pay more for materials and features that match your primary activity (e.g., merino for multi-day wear, synthetics for sweaty activities).
Wash long johns in cool water on a gentle cycle and avoid high-heat drying. Merino likes a mild detergent and air drying to prevent shrinkage. Synthetics can handle a low-heat tumble but still do better air-dried to preserve elasticity.
Store clean and dry base layers folded in a drawer to avoid stretching out waistbands. Repair small holes or seam issues early — a tiny fix will stop a small tear from becoming a big one. Treat merino with extra care to keep its soft hand and loft.
Buying in-store lets you feel fabric and test fit, which is helpful for first-time buyers. Department stores like Nordstrom or REI let you compare brands side by side. Online retailers often have a deeper inventory and user reviews that can guide you on fit and warmth, and many brands provide detailed size charts in inches to make ordering safer. Look for free returns if you’re trying a new brand for the first time.
For everyday city wear: Uniqlo or Tommy John. For outdoor sports: Patagonia, Under Armour, or Smartwool. For heavy labor and durability: L.L.Bean or Duluth Trading Co. For budget backups: Hanes or Fruit of the Loom. For department-store selection and variety: Nordstrom or Macy’s.
Choosing the right long johns and socks is all about matching materials, weight, and fit to your activities and the temperatures you face. US stores from Uniqlo to Smartwool offer solid options whether you need a thin, sleek base layer for daily use or a heavyweight set for freezing work days. Think about merino for odor control and midweight for versatile warmth, and pair your long johns with proper socks for full-body comfort. With a few good pairs and the right layering strategy, cold weather becomes something you dress for easily, not dread.
