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Best Women's Thermal TopsGOAL / various

The 12 best women's thermal tops and base layers for winter 2023

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Tackle the increasingly colder weather when you're outside training or simply on the go with the addition of the best thermal and base layers for your everyday wear. Don't underestimate the power of a thermal, they become an invaluable part of your wardrobe once the frost creeps in every year - why reach for the thermostat when you can layer up instead?

GOAL takes a look at some of the best ways to beat the cold. Starting with thermal shirts and base layers, a staple for any winter wardrobe, whether training outdoors or not.

What is a thermal top? 

Thermal clothing is typically the base layers you wear underneath your regular clothes, whether it be your football kit or everyday wear. Thermals work to retain body heat in cold weather better than your average shirts, and with modern tech advancements, can give you lightweight and moisture-wicking coverage where you need it. 

Whether you’re looking to stay warm for your training sessions or tackling the cold morning commute to the office, our hand-picked selection of the best women's thermal shirts has you covered. From light base layers to high-tech compression tops and fleeces, we’ve found something for every occasion, no matter what you choose to do outdoors - football, cycling or walking. 

  • Shop: The best women's thermal tops

    Best overall thermal top

    This Regatta Beru Top has it all. Functionality, versatility and style. The hardwearing fabric means you can count on this thermal top to keep you warm for numerous winter seasons. Moisture-wicking properties will keep you dry and cool, and the soft finish is cosy to the touch.

    Reasons to buy

    • Added natural odour control
    • Great base layer for outdoor activities
    • Removes moisture from skin's surface

  • Best budget thermal top

    Mountain Warehouse Talus TopMountain Warehouse £14.99 at Amazon

    You don't have to spend much money to get some of the best thermal essentials into your wardrobe. Mountain Warehouse has this great budget-friendly option, perfect for layering with jumpers and jackets. Racking up more than 900 reviews on Amazon, you know you can count on this as a top pick that also won't hurt your wallet.

    Reasons to buy

    • Actively wicks away moisture from the body
    • Will keep you cool and comfortable
    • Dries quickly when washed

  • Best thermal top for sports

    The Nike Therma-FIT Training Top features heat-regulating tech, great for training and sports, so you don't overheat. The slick grey colourway is easy to incorporate into any wardrobe and is made from a thick, extra-cosy fabric so you can enjoy your sports even on those colder winter days.

    Reasons to buy

    • THERMA-Fit technology helps regulate body temperature
    • Includes welt pockets to keep essentials at hand
    • Can be layered over activewear

  • Best fleece thermal top

    Stay extra warm with a fleece base layer this winter. The Rab Conduit Fleece is made from recycled polyester fleece, which gives this option extra points for sustainability. The double-layer soft stand-up collar will also protect your neck from wind chill and draughts.

    Reasons to buy

    • Front zip for ventilation
    • Made from lightweight gridded fleece
    • Flatlocked seams for comfortability

  • Best luxury thermal top

    This option from FALKE fits the bill if you want a luxurious thermal top to pick from during the winter months. It's full of savvy tech-like ventilation zones in all the critical areas like the armpits, elbows and spine areas. It also has anti-odour properties, so you will stay dry and smell fresh.

    Reasons to buy

    • Zip finish for comfort
    • Moisture-wicking 2-layer construction
    • Made from highly insulating merino wool

  • Best thermal vest top

    If you're someone who wants to layer up thermal layers for those extra winter days when the thermometer outside drops into the minuses, you'll love this vest top. It's lightweight, so you can layer up without feeling weighed down, and quick-drying, so you can stay nice and dry if you're working out.

    Reasons to buy

    • Made from moisture-wicking material
    • IsoTherm technology adds heat and warmth without the bulk
    • Dries quickly after washing

  • Best everyday thermal top

    If you're looking for a thermal top to blend in with your everyday casualwear, you won't get much better than this HeatTech top from UNIQLO. It comes in three neutral colours - Grey, Black and Off White so you can stay warm without looking like you're wearing traditional thermals.

    Reasons to buy

    • Fibres trap warm air from escaping
    • Wicks moisture away
    • Ultrafine fibre construction makes it soft

  • Best short-sleeve thermal top

    If you're looking for a base layer that will carry you through winter and into spring, this adidas Terrex Drynamo Eco Merino short-sleeve top is a great option. Made from lightweight merino wool, you get a premium product for your money. It also features target ventilation zones, so you stay cool and dry where you need to.

    Reasons to buy

    • Made from lightweight and breathable fabric
    • Merino wool adds extra softness and warmth
    • Has engineered ventilation zones

  • Best thermal top for style

    Thermal tops don't have to be boring, or a bland addition to your outfit, and this UNIQLO HeatTech Turtleneck Fleece top proves it. Turtlenecks are a stylish and comfy addition to any winter wardrobe, and this thermal version will blend in - no one will be the wiser that it's not just an ordinary top. It comes in 11 colourways to suit your style and existing wardrobe.

    Reasons to buy

    • Choose from 11 stunning colourways
    • Versatile and relaxed cut
    • Can be styled on its own or layered

  • Best two-pack thermal top

    It's always good to have an extra thermal top in your wardrobe for those super chilly days. These M&S thermal tops are designed with superior Heatgen technology, which holds onto valuable body heat from your skin, keeping you warm for longer.

    Reasons to buy

    • Has clever Heatgen technology built-in
    • Made from lightweight and super soft fabric
    • Can be layered

  • Best running thermal top

    There's nothing like a running session to get your blood pumping on a cold day. To keep warm and dry, Under Armour have you covered with their Funnel Neck Top from their prestigious ColdGear range. It has reflective details, which are perfect for low-light runs, and the stretchy material won't restrict you in any way.

    Reasons to buy

    • Dual layer with ultra-warm interior
    • Wicks sweat and dries quickly
    • Four-way stretch material for comfortability

  • Best half-zip thermal top

    Avoid the bitter winter chills with a half-zip top to keep your chest and neck warm. The Nike Therma-FIT One is made from soft fleece, excellent for keeping you warm before, during and after your workout. The sweat-wicking qualities will keep you dry so you can go about your day comfortably.

    Reasons to buy

    • Fleece curves at front and back hems for more coverage
    • Side slits create extra stretch for flexibility
    • Designed not to be restrictive and allow movement