Winter undergarments?

[gardener]

This is NOT a photography question but it's been so many years since I fished and hunted that I no longer have a clue what to get to stay warm during winter travels. Needless to say, there have been a lot of improvements in fabrics and outdoor wear since then...
Ok, I know how to dress in layers and I have plenty of stuff to keep me warm when I'm home piddling about or traveling by auto where I can carry as much stuff as I want but what's the current warm trend fabric that's lightweight yet comfortable for traveling by air when you really don't want to take any more bulky stuff than you have too...
While we don't have any current travels planned, the wife and I have a trip next year in October touring/cruising the Columbia and Snake Rivers and something tells me that we may need different warm undies than we'd normally use here in Texas at that time of year. Much time will be spent outside (but no camping) so comfy is at the top of the wish list. The regular jeans, shirts, jackets, etc. are already covered but I just don't have a clue about what's good under...
Any hunters and/or fishing people have a recommendation on brand, weight, sources? There are many web sources, Bass Pro, Cabelas, and the like but I tend to believe people who've actually used or tried products more than the average sales person. I may go ahead and buy now since it's far easier to shop for such things in the winter than trying to find them during the summer.
Any information or prior product experience would be appreciated.
Steve W

[shamrock]

REI brand is good - i'm sitting here in some nice warm lightweight polyester longjohns atm. I'm warm natured, and the lightweight version with a layer of "regular" clothes over the top, plus a light jacket, is plenty to keep me warm down to 20 degrees or so. I think if you keep the head, feet and hands appropriately covered it makes a big difference as well. I use liners for my gloves and socks.

Other brands i've used are under armour and mountain hardwear, and i like them as well, though the under armour can get pretty pricey.

Sources - i shop Cabelas, REI, Backcountry.com and Altrec.com, primarily.

[fishcat]

Try the 100% silk longjohns. Can't beat the freedom of movement and breathability. Academy has them. Around $35 for a set.

[L Stegall]

Other places with a good selection of winter layering options for your wife are www.titleninesports.com, and www.athleta.com.

[Peacock]

Polartec gear is great gear also, used to keep our troops nice and warm!

http://www.adstactical.com/about_ads/gen3_ecwcs.htm

[Chief]

Gortex and Thinsulate anything if you want to get serious.


Gordon

[pintail]

You may want to try the Under Armour Cold Gear. It's a bit pricey, but worth it.

[Joe N]

Stay away from anything cotton though it feels good on the skin it absorbs moisture and will make you feel chilled with a little activity. You can pick up polypropylene underwear in various weights at Wal-Mart, an Army/Navy store, or any sporting goods/backpacking store. Both Bass Pro and Cabela's should have a good selection in the different weights - lightweight, medium weight, or expedition weight. I have purchased the insulated underwear at all the places I mentioned and it is all about equal quality. I work outdoors and occasionally in temps in the single digits and the polypro underwear works great. I have never tried it but I have heard that silk is the warmest of all however it is also more expensive.

[L Stegall]

Originally Posted by Joe N

Stay away from anything cotton though it feels good on the skin it absorbs moisture and will make you feel chilled with a little activity.

Especially socks - that's why those pricey ski socks made from technical materials are worth the price, as they wick that sweat away and don't leave cold, damp feet.

[110240]

Originally Posted by fishcat

Try the 100% silk longjohns. Can't beat the freedom of movement and breathability. Academy has them. Around $35 for a set.

thats a top tip. They look really gay so never tell anyone you have them though. used to wear em climbing in N Wales. My mates never knew why I was always warm :)