Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear for Every Activity

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Like moisture-wicking shirts, moisture-wicking underwear doesn't just help keep you dry and comfy—it can also prevent the worst side effect of any physical activity: chafing. These undies work to keep you dry by using microscopic fibers to pull moisture away from the body and preserve heat in cooler temperatures. Whether you are enjoying a day hike, suffering through a sweaty workout, or running errands, these undies will keep your nether regions dry and comfortable all day long.

The Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear of 2023

What to Consider

Materials

Moisture-wicking fabrics can be made of a few different things, but the most common materials are synthetic blends, wool, or bamboo. Wool and bamboo are more sustainable, organic options, but can also be a bit more expensive, while synthetic blends are more affordable, but not always as durable.

Additional Features

It's not just the material of underwear that matters, but also the design. Look for options with flat seam or seamless design as this prevents chafing and can reduce the appearance of panty lines. Also consider how the underwear fits for the activity you're doing: If you are running, you may opt for a full coverage option as opposed to a thong to minimize the feeling of a mid-run wedgies. For men, consider briefs as opposed to longer options as these can ride up and feel bulky under a top layer.

How We Selected

To find the best options among the many pairs of moisture-wicking underwear out there, we researched the most popular models available. We looked at expertly tested reviews from trusted sources like Men's Journal and Women's Health and combed through reviews by people who have purchased and worn these undies. We've included selections that fit different body types, workout styles, budgets, and preferences.

If you are looking for some more run-specific moisture-wicking underwear, check out our tested article on underwear for runners.

High-Waisted Moisture-Wicking Underwear

These undies are soft, supportive, and made to work. Despite being full coverage, they won't roll up or bunch, and they work great with high-waisted leggings or jeans. They come in packs of four and are available in sizes XS up to 5XL.

UnderEase Mid-Rise Cheeky Bikini Underwear

If you prefer to run in underwear instead of going commando, you will want to make sure that your undies are not only moisture-wicking, but soft, flexible, and stretchy. This pair is all of those things, plus it has a mid-rise which won't fall down, but also won't stick up over your running shorts. The flat seams and smooth waistband also help prevent any chafing while on the move.

Moisture-Wicking Seamless Thong Panties 6-Pack

No one likes panty lines, but they can be difficult to avoid unless you opt to go commando. These thongs are soft, comfy, and designed to work out in. They come in packs of six and come in 14 different color pack options, so you can prioritize white or nude if you're worried about see-through shorts.

This quick-dry, moisture-wicking underwear helps to keep you comfortable and reduces odor. The four-way stretch is supportive and helps reduce pinching and pulling while you work out.

Classic Seamless Moisture-Wicking Hipster Brief

These consistently rank as some of the top plus-sized underwear. They are super stretchy, breathable, and won't roll or bunch while you wear them. They are higher-coverage, which some people find more comfortable than thongs for wearing all day or hiking. They also have a seamless design that prevents it from chafing even at your most active.

EcoWear Moisture-Wicking Boy Shorts

If you prefer something more full coverage, consider these boy short briefs. Made with bamboo, they are naturally cooling and moisture-wicking, and they're a more sustainable option than synthetic blends. Unlike some boy shorts, customers claim that this underwear actually stays put and doesn't roll up when moving.

Men's CoolZone Moisture-Wicking Boxer Briefs

This Fruit of the Loom design comes in a set of six, making it a super cost-effective choice at under $20. The fabric is all moisture-wicking except for a mesh patch near the groin that allows for ventilation where you need it most. They come in a few different color options and three different lengths to suit different body types. Plus, they are super size-inclusive, with sizes ranging from small to 5x.

3-Pack Super Fit Moisture-Wicking Trunks

If you like to wear short shorts when you’re running, you may like these Pair of Thieves trunks. The super short inseam ensures that you won’t feel constricted and can help reduce the feeling of bulkiness while wearing multiple layers.

Moisture-Wicking Underwear

If you want your choice in color and pattern, these Jockeys are the way to go. But self-expression isn't all they have to offer—these moisture-wicking undies are made of a super smooth, fast-drying material that keeps you dry down there while you're sweating everywhere else. It also features mesh panels to let you breathe where your skin needs it most.

Kinetic HD Moisture-Wicking Underwear

Designed with semi-compression, these undies are designed to give support without being too tight, which means they aren't restrictive when running, walking, or working out. The flat seams and fast-drying fabric help make them chafe-free, bounce-free, and ready for your longest and fastest runs.

3-Pack Moisture-Wicking Brief Underwear

While you may be a boxer brief kind of guy on the day to day, a true brief may work better for working out because it has less fabric, which keeps you cooler. These undies don't extend down the leg so they can't bunch up under tights or pants.

These use a blend of micro modal and spandex to create an incredibly lightweight and breathable feel, as well as chafe-free seams that prevent any discomfort on the inner thigh.

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