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Us women (and men!) have all experienced a sweat stain down there while working out, and we can probs all relate to frantically trying to cover it up, too. Look, nobody wants to sport a crotch stain. But if *everything* is usually soaked after you work out, that's totally normal and you're absolutely not alone. Thankfully, moisture-wicking underwear works, and it'll do more than just wick away moisture and sweat in hot, humid weather. nylon dope dyed dty yarn
"This underwear, in theory, could help pull that moisture away and could dry faster than regular underwear," says Kate White, MD, a gynecologist, associate professor of OB/GYN at Boston University, and WH advisory board member.
Peep a few of the best pairs of moisture-wicking underwear, below:
According to gynecologists and dermatologists we spoke with, moisture-wicking underwear is a must, and some can even boost your vaginal health and protect you from yeast infections, inflammation, and itching, too. But does moisture-wicking underwear actually work? Below, experts weigh in on the best moisture-wicking underwear, how they work, and how to find the best pairs for you, from plus-size undies to the best underwear for runners.
One thing to note: You should "choose your undies based on what problem you're trying to solve or what symptoms you're trying to address," Dr. White says. For instance, if you struggle with increased discharge and vaginal odor, moisture-wicking underwear might not be the best choice for you, due to the fabric. (More on that below!)
When shopping for moisture-wicking underwear, look for materials like polyester, nylon, bamboo, and wool to whisk sweat away. The science is simple—those fabrics pull moisture away from the skin and out to the fabric’s exterior to evaporate. In other words, the fabric dries faster. It also regulates your body temperature, according to research published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology and Occupational Physiology. (Cool, right?)
Again, if you have trouble with increased discharge and vaginal odor, moisture-wicking underwear might actually make those symptoms worse by blocking your air flow due to the fabric used in a way that cotton undies wouldn't, Dr. White explains. When it comes to manmade fabrics like polyester, the natural fibers of a cotton will allow air to circulate differently, she says. If you're in doubt, she recommends chatting with your gynecologist first before pressing Add to Cart.
See below for the 18 best pairs of sweat and moisture-wicking underwear in 2023.
Stay totally cool and comfortable with Fruit of the Loom's moisture-wicking and luxuriously soft underwear. They work wonders at keeping sweat away without being too tight or clingy.
Reviewers rave about how comfortable these breathable panties are (they're totally re-orderable!) and they don't ride up. They also don't feel too tight or create too much pressure around the stomach, which is another plus.
Rave Review: "These are the softest panties I've ever worn. After many years of wearing thongs, which are my favorite, I've now switched back to briefs and boxer briefs. These are awesome at wicking away moisture, especially living in the southeast."
This underwear keeps you cool and dry all day long for a comfortable feeling you deserve. Aside from how dry they stay, reviewers also say that the fit is nice and snug.
Rave Review: "I like these cotton panties because they fit snugly and they're not saggy like most panties. Even after washing them, they fit good."
These Reebok panties are among Amazon's bestselling underwear because they offer excellent coverage without feeling constricting. If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of moisture-wicking underwear and want a non-thong option, this is a great, affordable place to start.
You'll get five pairs for under $35, and you can choose from 16 different color combos. With over 14,000 ratings, reviewers love these briefs for their comfort and stretchiness.
Rave Review: “Let me tell you how magical these panties are. They do not move, they do not cut into my fat thighs, they don't squeeze my love handles, and they cover my whole butt, which has never been done before."
Read more: Best Seamless Underwear
Gynecologist Ann Cabeca, MD, raves about Lorna Jane's fabric, which is 74 percent nylon and 26 percent elastane. And, she's not alone. The made-for-sports briefs have dozens of reviews by runners and HIIT lovers.
They'll give you zero VPL (visible panty lines) and genuinely feel invisible. Aside from Dr. Cabeca, reviewers love it too. After all, they have a great fit, don't fall apart after washes, and won't ride up during any activities.
Rave Review: "These are the most comfortable sports undies I have ever worn. They feel soft and super breathable. Although they're thin, they don’t ride up as you would expect through the day."
Reviewers say that their pursuit for the best moisture-wicking underwear ended when they found these, and we have to concur. They don't show under workout clothes (or any clothes for that matter), they wick away moisture in a flash, and they're high-waisted enough to hold you in.
Rave Review: "I bought these because of all of the positive reviews, but I tried them and I love them! They are high-waisted, very comfy, they wash well, and they don't lose their elasticity. I've had them for a few months and they are still in good condition."
These nylon-spandex panties come in a variety of colors and are extremely lightweight. But don't let the light fabric fool you—they're super durable and hold up well to all-day wear. Plus, they won’t ride, roll, or bunch, making them perfect for both workouts and overall active lifestyles.
While these panties are hand-wash only, they're still worth the purchase, as they have an anti-odor treatment, are quick to dry, won't chafe, and are ultra-breathable. They're great to wear anywhere, from hikes, to lounging on the couch.
Rave Review: “I got these panties for an upcoming trip, and they are so wonderful that I'm going to get one pair a month until I replace my entire set with them. They're comfy, hygienic, and awesome. Plus, they never get soggy when I'm working out or just out and about on a hot day."
Everyone gets a little sweaty in their sleep from time to time, and these moisture-wicking underwear from Athleta are the perfect pair to keep you dry. Plus, reviewers say they feel like nothing on your body so they're not constricting while you snooze.
Rave Review: "These are so comfortable—you forgot you even have them on!"
This thong is somehow perfectly lightweight and structured, so everything feels held into place without making it difficult to move comfortably. Plus, a portion of its proceeds go toward Johns Hopkins' Kimmel Cancer Center to benefit breast health.
With 11 different color combinations to choose from, this underwear is great for working out, running, and everything in between. They stay put and hidden, and wash well, a reviewer wrote. What more could you want?
Rave Review: “This thong offers such a comfortable fit for working out! I hate having a panty line in my yoga/running pants, and I've previously had a difficult time finding thongs that are comfortable for these activities. The material is very lightweight and breathable."
Hands-down, Dr. Cabeca's favorite undie brand is Hanky Panky, and she particularly loves its "BreatheSoft" line that does exactly what its name says. The microfiber fabric will help keep you dry no matter how much you plan on sweating, and it comes in tons of fun, bright colors.
Rave Review: "I recently purchased this thong and it’s honestly the most comfortable thing I’ve ever bought! It definitely lives up to its name of being very breathable and extremely comfortable. I am planning on purchasing a lot more of these! They are absolutely perfect."
If you're on your period, you want a pair of undies that will keep you feeling dry, and these do exactly that. They absorb up to eight teaspoons of blood, pee, or sweat, so if you bleed through your tampon, you have a backup plan (without the need for a pad). The best part is you can't even feel the excess moisture—this underwear literally absorbs it right up.
Reviewers love that it gives them no panty line, can last overnight while you're in bed, and that it's super comfy. Plus, it's hike-proof—one customer hit the trails and said they didn't have to worry about leaking the whole time.
Rave Review: "I was skeptical when I first started reading about Knix underwear and their promises of keeping you and your clothes dry. Well, I finally bit the bullet, and let me tell you I have not regretted it! These are by far the most comfortable underwear I have ever owned, and they live up to their promises of keeping you and your clothes dry."
Read more: Best Period Panties
Not only is this mesh underwear super cute, it's also made out of high-stretch silky mesh, making them a mega fan favorite. People love wearing these briefs on their period because of how lightweight, breathable, and comfy they are.
To make matters even better, the brand is also eco-conscious and the briefs are made with superfine recycled fibers. Aaand this pair is made in 28 (!) different colors and patterns, plus, sizes range from XS to 3X, making the brand v inclusive.
Rave Review: "The silky mesh is breathable and sexy. I love when fashion meets function. In terms of colors, I love the classic black, but also love the fun shades. I really just can’t get over how they feel."
Despite wool’s rep for keeping you warm in cold weather, this thong is an all-star when you're sweating. Plus, it's surprisingly thin, soft, breathable, and even odor-resistant. It's more of an investment than some of the other options on this list, but it's made to last with natural fibers.
It's machine washable—which is a major pro for me—and the fabrics are made for durability, stretch, mobility, and comfort. What do reviewers think? Well, they feel great, and the rise is comfy. 'Nuff said.
Rave Review: “Never in a million years would I think I would like wool underwear! After reading an article on the benefits of layering merino wool for cold weather, I thought I would give these a try. I'm so glad I did! The moisture-wicking properties are far superior to cotton.”
SKIMS totally talks the talk. These panties are comfortable, breathable, seamless, and they don’t roll or bunch. The stretchy fabric means they move with you without digging in. Plus, they come in nine different neutral tones to match your skin and have plus sizes.
Customers love this pair because they're flattering and stretchy, so they're totes worth the money. Consider them the perfect complement to your go-to high-waisted leggings (thanks Kim).
Rave Review: "These are perfect under high-waisted leggings. They're also great for working out and they sit perfectly!"
When it's that time of the month, a solid pair of moisture-wicking panties that hold your tampon or pad in place is essential. This super snug, seamless thong features an invisible leakproof core so you stay comfortable and protected all day (or night!) long.
Rave Review: "I decided to try the Proof thongs and I'm so happy I did! I felt secure and they were surprisingly comfortable and not bulky in the center. It was as if there was nothing there."
Thongs get a bad rep for inducing uncomfortable wedgies, but there's a reason these are called the "invisible" thong—the seamless, ultra lightweight fabric literally feels like going commando. If you're a fan of Alo Yoga's Airbrush Leggings ($98), you'll love these just as much.
They're odor-resistant, machine-washable, and work under any type of bottoms you could be wearing, from leggings you're rocking at brunch or the gym. It's stretchy and comfortable, and one reviewer even says they work amazing during hot yoga!
Rave Review: “These are lightweight, airy, and feel like they are barely there. Amazing! I have them in four colors."
Whether you like to run outdoors or on the tread, these underwear stay in place all day without accumulating sweat. I like to say they're my invisible workout buddy.
Rave Review: "These are so comfortable and smooth, I almost forget I’m wearing them!"
Made from recycled materials, these super sustainable panties divert waste from landfills. They're also dyed with bluesign-approved dyes, which are safer for workers and much better for Mother Earth. Just when you thought they couldn't get any better, these panties have a slightly wider gusset (the width of the crotch area) than most thongs, which reviewers appreciate.
Rave Review: "These are the best things I’ve ever had. They are lightweight and so comfortable. I never feel them bunching or riding up. I highly recommend."
Noticing your underwear stretching after just a few uses? First of all, that shouldn't be happening. Second of all, Thirdlove has you covered. This pair of undies has a unique four-way stretch fabric that lays flat on your body and never moves, so no elastic or bulky stitches show through your pants while you sweat.
Editor Review: "These are my go-to workout undies when I want something that hugs me tight and never stretches. You also can't see them through your leggings, which is a welcome bonus point." —WH associate e-commerce editor, Lily Wohlner
For the past year, Women’s Health editors, including our editorial assistant Addison Aloian, associate e-commerce editor Lily Wohlner, and former senior commerce editor Neha Tandon, researched the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated moisture-wicking underwear. Our team consulted Kate White, MD, Ann Cabeca, MD, Geeta Yadav, MD, Christine Greves, MD, and Beth Rackow, MD, and then evaluated thousands of customer reviews and ratings to narrow down the best moisture-wicking underwear for a wide range of preferences and sizes.
According to dermatologist Geeta Yadav, MD, the wrong underwear choice can provide the perfect environment for bacteria and fungus to grow. "Bacteria thrives in dark, damp areas and when moisture like sweat is trapped against the skin, it can cause bacteria to multiply, " she says. "In the bikini area, this is especially important to monitor. When that moisture has nowhere to go due to tight underwear or yoga pants that don't breathe or wick away moisture, it can lead to irritation and superficial fungal or bacterial spread."
Gynecologist Christine Greves, MD, agrees. "Moisture-wicking fabric can be helpful in situations in which there is a lot of warmth and moisture and you aren’t able to change your bottoms or shower immediately (i.e. you're running outside for an extended period of time and it takes you a while to get back home)," she says.
Dr. Greves also notes that yeast infections are often caused by that mixture of extended moisture and warmth, so you'll want to be especially careful if you're prone to them.
Lily Wohlner is the Associate E-Commerce Editor of Women’s Health. An expert in recommending the best products to add-to-cart, she knows what it takes for a product to receive a solid five stars (especially when it comes to beauty!). Starting her career as a freelance makeup artist, Lily has since moved to the editorial world, where she has generated content for brands including Oribe, NewBeauty, Dermstore, SkinStore, and LOOKFANTASTIC. When she’s not zenning out with a pore-clearing mask, the Lower East Side dweller is cheffing up a new recipe with her roommate or thrifting for the perfect pair of blue jeans. Follow her on Instagram.
Addison Aloian (she/her) is an editorial assistant at Women’s Health. When she’s not writing about all things pop culture, health, beauty, and fashion, she loves hitting leg day at the gym, shopping at Trader Joe’s, and watching whichever hockey game is on TV. Her work has also appeared in Allure, StyleCaster, L’Officiel USA, V Magazine, and Modern Luxury Media.
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