THERMALS I have been working outdoors in the winter since 1974. I have worked commercial construction since 1996. Most guys that have worked construction with me, will tell you that I have a very low tolerance for cold weather (I’m a SISSY).
For years I have bought E.C.W.C.S. thermals from Bass Pro to wear in the winter. A few winters ago, prior to starting construction in Mishawaka In., I broke down and bought some Under Armour 3.0 thermals.Throughout that Jan and Feb I switched back and forth between the E.C.W.C.S. and the Under Armour. In my opinion the E.C.W.C.S. were every bit as warm as the Under Armour. The E.C.W.C.S. cost about ($20) a third of what the Under Armour cost ($70). The Under Armour were a slightly cleaner fit. For hunting, construction or general outdoor activities in extreme cold conditions, I recommend the E.C.W.C.S. from Bass Pro.
I now occaisionally do electrical repair which presents a risk of exposure to Arc Flash. Most thermals are not safe to wear if risk of Arc Flash or burn conditions exist. Polyester, nylon and most non-natural materials when exposed to extreme heat, may melt to the skin presenting the risk of very serious infection. Initially I thought I would need to start wearing 100% cotton thermals to work during the winter, which would not begin to provide adequate warmth for such a cold weather sissy. Then I located Merino Wool thermals on the Cabelas web-site. Wool is naturally much more heat and flame resistant than cotton. The Merino Wool cost ($45), a little more than the E.C.W.C.S from Bass Pro but much less than the Under Armour. I find the Merino Wool to be every bit as-if not more warm than the E.C.W.C.S and the Under Armour 3.o. I find the Merino Wool to also be more comfortable to wear than any other thermals I have worn. The natural fibers breath well, the shirt is long enough to prevent plumbers cleavage and the collar lays flat. No bacon neck. Being solid black, the shirt looks good enough to wear with casual clothes. If my budget allows, I plan to purchase only the Merino Wool from Cabelas in the future. I strongly recommend the Merino Wool for Electricians, and Firefighters or anyone that needs thermals who may be exposed to extreme heat.
I try to remember to allow for significant shrinkage when purchasing thermals. I do not put my thermals in the dryer. I remove them from the washer and allow them to dry on a hanger.
Regardless of how cold I get, I remind myself that we have thousands of American Soldiers in Afghanistan where Northerly winds from Russia and Kazakstan produce heavy snow and temperatures in some mountainous regions reaching minus 50 degrees. .Those soldiers who are fighting for our freedom will not go home to a warm house and family at the end the day, too many will never see their home and family again.
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