What type of long johns are suitable for long term use in winter? i am not sure this topic was discussed before. I did a search for threads over a month but I didn't find any of them.

silk
merino wool / plain wool
microfiber & spandex made by polartec

I use the microfiber version because it dries quickly and more durable, soft to the skin, wicks moisture well.

I still prefer 100% cotton. The rayon/cotton blends cause me excessive itching on the calves and sides of the stomach. Layering is the most important factor to trap your body heat but the cotton will allow your body to breathe better, which will help prevent overheating.

What about the "Cotton Kills" mantra?

I have Patagonia's Capilene® long johns. They are comfortable and hydrophilic. I don't know if it's better Merino wool for long term situations but I do know they are more expensive. I know the underwear should touch the skin and quickly wick moisture away. Then you use wool for the insulation layer. Anyway, good question...

Frankie

Sorry, Capilene is hydrophobic but has a hydrophilic finish or something like that anyway.

Cotton only kills you if you're wet and it's cold out <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Ya, I assume since he's talking about "long johns in winter" it would be refering to cold weather...

I second Patagonia Capilene. Their expedition weight offers a lot of bang for the bulk. For max effect, layered with a pair of lightweight or silkweight next to the skin, with a pair of expedition weight over that and then your fleece and then your shell.

Oops. It looks like they've renamed their products, It looks like 'silkweight' is now called 'Capilene 1' and 'expedition weight' is now called 'Capilene 4'.

-john

I use nothing but silk. I've found it very warm.

My vote goes to 100% merino wool from NZ. That's my preference for comfort. I also use polypro but find it less comfortable on a day in day out basis. If I were soaking wet the nod may go to polypro - but then again, I try to stay dry in those kinds of conditions!