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As the UK braces for a cold snap, with Met Office forecasts predicting Arctic-like conditions, it’s time to break out the thermal clothing.
Over the years, I’ve sampled various thermal clothing ranges, from budget options at Tesco, Asda, Primark and B&M, to more luxurious offerings from sportswear brand Columbia.
However, none have matched up to the thermal prowess of Marks and Spencer, in my view. With freezing temperatures predicted this weekend, I decided to try some of the latest additions to M&S’s thermal range.
Since my last review of M&S thermals in 2022, they’ve added new items, including thermal jeans and joggers, which I was eager to test. They also introduced a polo neck thermal bodysuit and a smoother style of thermal sock that caught my eye.
M&S rates their thermals based on the level of warmth they provide, offering light, medium, and maximum heat options. The retailer uses what it calls its “innovative HeatgenTM technology to effectively retain body heat” in the materials used in its thermal range.
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We test out some of the new thermals in Marks & Spencer’s popular range the Thermal Heatgen range, including tops, joggers, jeans and socks (Image: MEN)
Over the years, I’ve tried numerous thermal ranges, but the HeatgenTM fabrics have proven to be the warmest. Not only that, they’re incredibly comfortable against the skin due to their brushed inner material, which is akin to a lighter style of fleece.
I’ve always been partial to the M&S HeatgenTM Maximum Thermal Leggings, available in various colours and sizes 6 – 22, priced at £20. However, this year, I opted for the MandS HeatgenTM Maximum Thermal Joggers.
Priced slightly higher at £25, these joggers have proven to be worth every penny. From the moment I put them on, I’ve not wanted to take them off.
They’re thicker than the leggings, making them more suitable for outdoor wear, but they’re also perfect for those who spend a lot of time sitting down, thanks to their particularly comfortable waistband.
While they feature the expected cuffed bottom of a jogger, they’re also very stretchy, so you don’t feel like they’re cutting off your circulation or riding up your leg, as some jogging pants do.
The jeans have a soft warm lining. (Image: MEN)
This year, I paired them with the new style of HeatgenTM Maximum Thermal socks, which are £12 for a three-pack. These are much smoother and preferable to the thicker ribbed ones I’ve previously tried from MandS.
My feet were kept wonderfully warm, and I appreciated that the ankle ribbing is as “super soft” as it’s advertised on the label, so there’s no concern about it digging into your skin. Due to their thinner material, they easily fit into boots or smarter shoes.
Next, I tested a new thermal experience – thermal jeans. MandS are renowned for their inclusive jeans range in short to long length and from sizes 6 – 22, so it’s fantastic to have a thermal jean option.
These are the Ivy Thermal High-Waisted Skinny Jeans, available in three colours: black, dark indigo and medium indigo for £35. I was genuinely impressed with these ones.
I had concerns that being skinny jeans, they might not fit or be comfortable on my curvier figure. However, they were incredibly warm and comfortable, with the waistband area being relaxed and true to size for me.
I paired these with M&S’ new Heatgen Light Thermal rollneck bodysuit priced at £16. Initially, I wasn’t sure I’d like this “light” category item, but it’s perfect for wearing under jeans or trousers, providing a smooth finish.
Marks & Spencer thermals including their Heatgen products (Image: M&S)
The only minor issue is that the material is so light it appears slightly see-through, so you’d definitely want to wear this as a base layer, unless you’re comfortable showing off your underwear!
My favourite thermal top in the M&S Heatgen range is their classic Medium Thermal Round neck top, priced at £16. It now comes in a wide variety of colours including green, red, pink and blue, as well as the traditional black.
The style of this top makes it suitable for workwear or as a base layer. There’s also a glittery version (pictured above) which is stylish enough to wear as an evening top too.
