These Body-Warming Uniqlo Base Layers Are Our Secret Weapon Against The Cold
Image by: Uniqlo
Uniqlo's HEATTECH range proves that when it comes to clever winter weather dressing, it's not what you wear - it's what you wear underneath. Discover the innovative t-shirts, cashmere tops and accessories making thermals cool again.
Much like mums who like to declare desserts are too sweet, there’s a peculiar pride for men in pretending they're not cold. You’ve seen it on the streets - the guy who insists on leaving his coat on the hanger just a little longer, jaw set against the chill, hands thrust defiantly into denim pockets. "Ah, this? This is nothing mate!" This year, however, it really hasn't been that cold - a strangely mild autumn that has everyone in a silent standoff with the weather. But winter always wins. It’s not a question of if the freeze arrives, but when - and when it does, the smart move isn’t to hide indoors. It’s to be ready for it.
Enter Uniqlo’s HEATTECH, the quietly revolutionary answer to clever winter layering. Developed through patented Japanese textile innovation, HEATTECH isn’t your ordinary thermal. It’s a high-performance fabric that converts your body’s natural moisture into heat, locking it in through a unique air-trapping structure. In simple terms: it creates warmth, rather than just holding onto it. The result is a light, breathable layer that keeps you comfortable whether you’re braving the elements or sitting through an overzealous office thermostat. Not bad for something you can pick up on the high street, eh?
There’s also absolutely no bulk, and no compromise to your outfit - meaning you can wear under a jacket easily enough and leave your autumn uniform untouched a little longer. And with three warmth levels to play around with - from the classic HEATTECH Jersey and Extra Warm, to the ski-holiday-worthy Ultra Warm - you can calibrate your comfort as easily as checking the forecast.
So, keep that winter coat hanging where you left it and layer up with one of these essential Uniqlo thermals below.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo HEATTECH Crew Neck T-shirt (long Sleeve)
£14.90
This is the essential base layer - the one you'll find us wearing day in, day out, henceforth. Lightweight and slim-fitting, it sits neatly under shirts or knits, adding invisible warmth without bulk. Ideal for the unpredictable early winter stretch and the kind of cold that easily catches you out on the commute.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo HEATTECH Crew Neck T-shirt (short Sleeve)
£14.90
Walking around in a t-shirt at this time of year? It's doable when it's made like this. Wear solo indoors or layered under outerwear, it keeps you dry and evenly warm from morning meetings to late-night drinks. A foundational piece for every winter wardrobe.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo HEATTECH Extra Warm Cashmere Blend Turtleneck T-shirt (long Sleeve)
£19.90
When winter gets serious, this turtleneck does too. Combining HEATTECH’s heat-generating fibres with a touch of cashmere softness, it delivers an extra layer of luxury to any look. The slightly-slouchy fit also happens to be spot on.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo HEATTECH Ultra Warm Tights
£24.90
This one is for those who refuse to let the cold win - even if it involves wearing tights. Designed for extreme weather, this discrete second skin provide 2.25x the warmth of classic HEATTECH - ideal under ski gear, but even denim if you need it. They stretch comfortably, move with you, and keep the chill firmly at bay.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo HEATTECH Extra Warm Cashmere Blend Crew Neck T-shirt (long Sleeve)
£19.90
HEATTECH is great for layering, but let's be honest - this chocolatey brown long sleeve doesn't need much else. Great as is or layered under an open check flannel shirt.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo HEATTECH Ultra Warm Crew Neck T-shirt (long Sleeve)
£19.90
The heavy-hitter of the range. Wear this Ultra Warm almost sweatshirt like tee under your jacket on icy mornings or pack it for weekends in the country. This is thermal technology at its most discreet - high-performance, minimal fuss, maximum warmth.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo HEATTECH Ribbed Beanie
£14.90
Hats are good, but have you ever slapped a HEATTECH beanie on your head? The difference in heat retention is staggering.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo HEATTECH Lined Gloves - Brown
£19.90
Extra toasty suede-style gloves that you won't have to take off when you need to use your phone. Perfection.
What Gently is wearing HEATTECH with...