Your favorite pair of undies is likely made of some blend of cotton. Cotton is great for softness and comfort, but not the best for performance. Cotton underwear absorbs sweat and stays wet, which can lead to chafing, irritation, and even blisters in sensitive areas. Wet cotton also creates a warm, damp environment that promotes bacterial and fungal growth, increasing the risk of infections and foul odors. The moist fabric also bunches up and can slow you down, making each gait more uncomfortable than the last.
Reason #2: Running Underwear Helps Prevent Chafing
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. 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.
Reason #3: Moisture-Wicking Running Underwear Keeps You Dry and Cool
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 odor, keeping you and your sensitive areas fresh, cool, comfortable, and dry.
Reason #4: Supportive Running Underwear Improves Performance
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.
Reason #5: Comfortable Running Underwear Makes Every Run Better
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. 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.
Getting The Most Performance
The right gear can completely transform your run, keeping you comfortable, supported, and focused with every step. Well-designed running underwear moves with you, mile after mile, so nothing holds you back by reducing chaffing, keeping you dry, and supporting all your key essentials. By investing in high-quality running underwear, you set yourself up to tackle every run with confidence and unlock your full potential as a runner.
