Does Uniqlo Heattech Really Keep You Warm? An Editor Investigates

I live in a perpetual state of being cold. Whether it's 70 degrees or below 17, you're bound to find me wrapped up in a blanket at home or venturing out with a jacket in tow. Growing up in Arizona hasn't exactly prepared me for how to navigate cooler temperatures, which is why I often rely on heavy layering during the winter months to keep myself feeling warm. In the past, this has translated into me dressing like Ralphie's younger brother from "A Christmas Story" — think chunky snowsuits, a double-wrapped wool scarf, and so many layers I'm hardly able to breathe (let alone move around). It wasn't until I was introduced to Uniqlo Heattech gear that I realized lightweight, movable thermals exist.

Uniqlo's Heattech line is arguably one of the brand's most popular collections. Loved by shoppers for its wide variety of styles, the capsule boasts warm, insulated pieces that are designed to replicate the effectiveness of a thermal layer without the bulky design. Besides being lightweight, the thermals are also stretchy and body-contouring, meaning they'll actually mold to the shape of your body to ensure a more flattering fit. The winter gear has proven to be a lifesaver for me this year — I sported the Uniqlo Heattech Leggings ($20) during New York Fashion Week earlier this month and I love the Uniqlo Heattech Socks ($8) and Uniqlo Heattech Cotton Crew Neck Long Sleeve ($25) so much, I've practically been living in the pieces 24/7.

Uniqlo Heattech Leggings

From

$20

$20 at Uniqlo

Uniqlo Heattech Socks

From

$8

$8 at Uniqlo

Uniqlo Heattech Cotton Crew Neck Long Sleeve

From

$25

$25 at Uniqlo

Ahead, I break down everything to know about Uniqlo Heatteach thermals and what makes them such a staple among shoppers, editors, and celebrities. From their unique insulated design and remarkably lightweight fit, here's what to know.

Unlike other thermal styles, Uniqlo's Heattech line is made from different materials like polyester blends, acrylic, and rayon, all of which are designed to lock in heat for a warmer and more insulated feel.

Despite their extra-warm design, I appreciate that these styles are surprisingly breathable and stretchy. The leggings mold perfectly to my body and are thin enough that I can style them underneath other cold-weather bottoms like pants or joggers. The long-sleeve T-shirt boasts a similar design, with an almost compressive-like fit that hugs my upper body without feeling too constricting. It's definitely thicker compared to the leggings, but still thin enough that I've been able to wear it underneath chunky sweaters and other winter tops.

The socks are, hands down, my favorite piece of Uniqlo Heattech gear. They're soft to the touch and plush enough to keep my feet feeling toasty. They also feature a textured ribbed design along the sides that looks super elevated. From boots to sneakers and even slippers, these thermal socks are designed to work with any type of shoe, and I even enjoy just wearing them alone casually around my apartment.

I also appreciate the affordability of the entire collection. In my experience, quality thermal pieces can get pretty costly if you're shopping from top outerwear brands, but most of the items in Uniqlo's Heattech collection cost less than $40. I've been able to stock up on several items in different colorways as a result, which has been great for expanding my cold-weather wardrobe.

For me, the Uniqlo Heattech leggings and long-sleeve T-shirt work great solely as thermal layers and not much else. The leggings in particular are incredibly thin, and I've noticed that they're even see-through in certain lights. Reviewers on Uniqlo's site express similar sentiments, with one shopper writing: "Fit and feel were nice, but these were waaaaay too sheer. Yikes! I could never wear these confidently, even if my top covered my butt!" While the cotton tee isn't necessarily sheer, it can look awkward (even clunky) while on. All this to say, I love these items as base layers for cold-weather outfits but wouldn't necessarily recommend them as individual pieces to wear without styling something else on top of them.

If you tend to run cold and rely on extra layers to stay comfortable, then Uniqlo Heattech gear is a worthwhile buy. There are a handful of different pieces to choose from, so you can find the best style for your wardrobe and comfort needs.

These thermal pieces are available to shop exclusively at Uniqlo.

Rating:

★★★★