Do You Need Running Underwear?

You are intentional with your running gear when it comes to shoes, socks, tops, and bottoms, but have you given much thought to your underwear? Like everything else you wear during your runs, you should select undergarments with performance in mind. Boxers, briefs, bikinis, boyshorts, hiphuggers, built-in liner shorts, or nothing at all — with so many choices, it can be hard to decide what's the best option for running. While some runners choose to go commando or are fans of minimalist underwear (thongs), others prefer to run with an extra layer underneath. Before we dive into the benefits of running-specific underwear, let's first address this frequently asked question:

Should you wear running underwear with shorts that have built-in liners?

The short answer (no pun intended) is no. But it all comes down to personal preferences and comfort. Most top brands offer shorts that feature built-in liners, which do not require an added layer of underwear. The brief or boxer-brief liner is designed to provide support and coverage. The liner is typically made with moisture-wicking mesh fabric for breathability and ventilation and provides the convenience of one less item to launder with your running gear. Wearing underwear under a built-in liner short may also cause discomfort and chafing.

However, some people do not like the feel of built-in liner shorts (which can't be worn over tights) and opt for linerless shorts so they can wear their preferred underlayer. Others enjoy running in stand-alone tights, pants, or leggings (especially in colder weather), in which case wearing running-specific underwear ensures modesty and coverage and has added performance benefits. For women, specifically, having an added layer of protection during the menstrual cycle is necessary. For men, supportive underwear helps eliminate any uncomfortable bouncing in the nether regions.

Ultimately, it comes down to choosing the option that makes you feel the most comfortable when you are out for a run, and we hope this article will help you discover what works best for you. As believers in the value and importance of high-quality performance underwear, we welcome you to check out our versatile selection of men's and women's underwear. Now, let's highlight the five essential properties of running underwear that will help boost your performance.

One of the most uncomfortable experiences for any runner is chafing. Due to the repetitive motion of running, it's important to have a layer of protection to eliminate any harsh rubbing that can cause skin irritation. Running underwear provides that extra layer of defense from salty perspiration that can irritate your skin and helps prevent the thighs from rubbing against each other if your legs touch. Just like you wouldn't throw on a regular t-shirt or conventional socks for running, you wouldn't want to throw on just any standard pair of underwear. Performance underwear has specific design features such as tagless and seamless stitching to ensure that the material is rubbing against fabric instead of directly onto the skin, saving your thighs and groin region from any painful discomfort.

As runners, we know that cotton retains moisture, which can breed bacteria during high-impact activities. Running-specific underwear is made with moisture-wicking material to keep you dry and cool so you don't overheat. If you have ever worn natural-fiber fabrics such as cotton, you know all too well the feeling of being heavily saturated with sweat at the end of your workout. Especially during long runs, you want performance underwear that will keep up with you and go the distance for a distraction-free workout. Breathable, technical fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and spandex blend are the best options for a lightweight feel that wicks away sweat and eliminates odour, keeping you and your sensitive areas fresh, cool, comfortable, and dry.

Whether running up hills or down slopes, wearing athletic underwear provides support with every twist and turn. Men, in particular, require a supportive fit to eliminate any jostling around down south. Boxer briefs are a popular style for men that offers a semi-compressive fit, which means they will hold everything where it needs to be without restricting movement. Most men's performance underwear will feature a gusseted crotch for lift and control and different inseam lengths tailored for his specific body shape and comfort. For women, a soft, elastic waistband helps keep the underwear in place for a comfortable, secure fit that won't dig in or roll. Because running underwear is constructed from stretchy fabric, it strikes the perfect balance in allowing for a good range of motion while also being form-fitting.

The last thing you want when you're chasing PRs is to be distracted with underwear that bunches or rides up. Running-specific underwear has a snug fit that eliminates embarrassing wedgies and creates a smooth appearance under clothing (goodbye VPL!). A tighter fit is also beneficial for running underwear since looser fabric can cause things to bunch and move around. Materials common in running underwear, such as polyester, are designed for a glove-like fit similar to a compression short, so the fabric moves with you and not against you.

Going commando may sound liberating for some, but it has its drawbacks. Wearing running underwear can be more hygienic and helps your clothes last longer. Most running underwear has anti-odour technology and antimicrobial properties to keep the stink at bay for lasting freshness. Whether you are wearing running shorts, leggings, pants, or capris, running-specific underwear will eliminate any issues with stains or odours. So the bottoms will stay fresher for longer, and you can get more mileage out of your gear (win-win all around!).