You don’t often hear talk of thermals, but we’ve been wearing long underwear here in the UK for around 400 years. Granted, ‘long johns’ might not be considered the height of contemporary fashion, but whether you’re braving a chilly morning commute on the bike, waiting at a damp bus stop or holding off from cranking up the heating, a set of thermals works a treat.
Some say the term ‘long johns’ may have been inspired by late-19th-century heavyweight boxer John Sullivan, who favoured a similar-looking garment in the ring. Others speculate it’s an approximation of the French words ‘longues’ and ‘jambes’. Whatever its origins, surely a revival of this most practical of garments is long overdue.
And while we might not be known for being at the vanguard of fashion trends, we’d like to do our bit for the humble long john by giving a set away.
Octave adult unisex long johns are an all-in-one design featuring the all-important zip back flap as well as soft, fully-brushed thermal fabric for extra warmth. And an excellent wicking rate makes them ideal for staying toasty while cycling or walking.
Win a set of long johns
To be in with a chance of wining a set of unisex long johns, simply leave us a message below stating which size you’d like and we’ll pick a name at random next week. Choose from chest size 32-34″ (S), 36-38″ (M), 40-42″ (L), 44-46″ (XL) or 48-50″ (XXL).
The ethical choice
The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.
The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK’s most ethical provider.
Colin
I agree, these will be very popular this winter. “Warming the body”, rather than the house is cheaper.
Medium please
Rupert williams
L
John
Large size would be perfect to keep me nice and toasty this winter
dave lucraft
Large for me, if I win.
Judith Rout
Toasty! Small for me if I’m lucky enough to win
Sam
These would help save money by not having heating on. XXL please
Colin
I will be constantly cold until next summer so these would help keep me warm! A snug medium methinks 🙂
Gillian
Long Johns are a great idea in winter, really warm for short rides or around the house. I’d love a medium please.
Rupert williams
Large please
CliveProbert
Warm but ‘cool’. Medium if I’m lucky.
Stephen
Medium super cozy size for me please!!
Sophie
I’d love a pair. Small please 🙂
Mags
Just the garment I need for winter cycling and walking. Medium size.
Bazza
The XL size would be excellent for the coming winter.
JohnB
Oh yes, I’d love a new pair of long johns, size L would do for me!
Mary Wild
Yes please , warm my jambes . Small please
Mark Davis
A medium size to help reduce my heating bills would be fantastic.