Warm-up wear

We all know that base layers keep you warm on the hill, but they’re also great for cozying up with your partner at home. While thermal underwear typically doesn’t scream “sexy,” we found some options that’ll blow your pants right off. We’re talking bright colors, comfortable fabrics and snug fits that will put your regular underwear to shame. These cozy garments will pretty much beg to be worn under any outfit, but they look so good that we doubt you’ll keep them on for long.

For the guys, we found just the thing that you want your partner to wear while you watch him make the coffee. 2(X)ist, available at Andrisen Morton, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, has released the new Tartan line – available in red (our favorite), white and black – with plaid details, a contoured pouch and a body-confident fit. Tartan also is available in the slinky No-Show Brief and No-Show Trunk, but I digress.

Another collection from 2(X)ist, Essential, is the company’s most popular line. The underwear is made of 100 percent cotton – available in white, black and other seasonal colors – with a microfiber waistband to provide equal comfort and support. While we prefer the Tartan line for its added pizzazz, Essential is the go-to line for everyday wear.

For the gals, we found some options that are just as cute as they are sexy. Cuddl Duds, available at Macy’s, are available in tons of fun colors and prints. The ActiveLayer long-sleeve V-neck and legging are made from polyester, cotton and spandex jersey, and are available in colors like black, sugar plum, shadow, navy, Aegean and brick.

Meanwhile, the Softwear with Stretch line – consisting of a long-sleeve hoodie, long-sleeve turtleneck, long-sleeve crew, crew-neck tank and legging – is made from modal (a type of rayon) and spandex jersey. Colors and prints include black, ivory, gray/black cheetah, ivory geo snowflake, gray heather/black stripe and gray heather. Cuddl Duds are cute, in fact, that you can even wear them as outer layers when the weather permits.

This season, Hot Chillys has introduced some new colors and styles in three fabrics: Geo Pro, PeachSkins and Micro-Elite Chamois. Geo Pro is super soft, comfortable and warm with moisture-management materials, and it features thumbhole loops to keep your hands warm.

Of course, there is always the Army Surplus Store if you’re one of those rugged types just looking for something to keep you warm during long excursions in the mountains. While that’s all well and good, the stuff you’ll find there is far less fashionable than what we’re suggesting. Sure, the more skin the better, but there’s something to be said when long underwear has the power to entice.

On the Web at http://shop.2xist.com, http://cuddlduds.com, http://hotchillys.com