I Succumb to Long Johns - Dr. Ed Iannuccilli

I Succumb to Long Johns - Dr. Ed Iannuccilli

I never thought that I would wear long underwear. My mother called them long johns when she answered my, "What’s that?" question when I saw Grandpa wearing a one-piece, red union suit as he strolled through the kitchen on his way to the bathroom.

He was wearing something that had a buttoned-up flap in the rear. ---- And what's that? Dad answered ---- It’s called a...well, never mind.

How's that for an introduction; and maybe the reason I never wore them, until recently. Now that I had succumbed, I did some homework and uncovered in my research that long johns date back to ancient times.

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It made sense that people in colder climates wore multiple layers of animal hides. Later, in medieval Europe, wool tunics were the insulators; wool was an excellent choice because it retained heat even when wet.

Long underwear was accepted in the 19th century. The term long johns is believed to have originated from champion US boxer John L. Sullivan who wore a one-piece thermal suit when he fought. In the 20th century, cotton and synthetic fibers were combined with wool to offer moisture-wicking properties and faster drying times.

Underclothing became even more popular among outdoor enthusiasts who needed protection against extreme cold, so manufacturers started producing specialized thermal underwear. Today, long underwear is functional and fashionable, made with cotton, wool, synthetic fibers, and blends, focusing on providing warmth, moisture management, and comfort. And they come in assorted styles. I wonder what style Grandpa would select. A floral pattern perhaps? Nah. He was a unicolor man of red.

I am at the long johns stage when I don’t want to feel cold at any time in any place. But no flap.

And I’m comfortable, not only because I am warm but also because I feel cool as I balance my comfort and style with eco-friendly practices (the advertisers told me to write that...well...not really). But they do highlight environmentally friendly use of recycled materials, and energy-efficient manufacturing. I get it. Good for them. Why is it that the hiking crowd blends so comfortably with the environmental crowd? Easy answer.

Some brands incorporate fashion elements into their advertising to appeal to consumers who want style and performance. I understand why ads highlight assorted colors and patterns to attract a broader range of consumers. But do they have to show entire families wearing the same thing? And floral? Really.

Traps heat, manages moisture, and contributes to overall comfort in wintry weather. Endorsements from outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, or professionals who rely on long underwear in extreme conditions. OK, OK, I get it! Testimonials help build credibility. But stop. I’m wearing them. Now everybody knows.

No, it's not the classic red union suit with the whaddya call flap. My long johns under a loose pair of pants keep me warm and comfortable in the frigid New England winter. Grab a pair. Thank me later. You can whisper it.